CNC Routing Services
CNC routing is a machine process by which we take sheets of hard materials and route out shapes and letters. It has become the standard process by which most all high-quality signage is made. From channel letters to individual sign letters the CNC Machine is used to achieve levels of accuracy and detail that is essential in modern sign making. As professional sign makers, we have decades of experience in mastering this machinery and by it bringing to life brand names and specialty signage. This type of dimensional signage is now used in business and entertainment in new and creative ways. Once relegated to large industries exclusively, this process is now available to creative communities and makers of quality products.
What type of materials can be CNC routed?
CNC routers are capable of routing a large array of substrates. Here are some of the materials that CNC routed signs are made from :
Acrylic: Acrylic is a popular choice for signs both interior and exterior. Acrylic comes in a spectrum of colors, sizes and thickness
PVC: One of our most verstatile materials which are used for durable indoor and outdoor signage. PVC is great for acheiving signs that have thickness while avoiding the cost and weight of similarly thick letters in other materials.
Metal: Sheets of aluminum are a great choice for CNC routing. From very thin sheets to thick sheets they make for a great sign substrate.
Wood: Including MDF, plywood and hardwoods, many artistic signs still utilize wood. However, it isn’t recommended for outdoor signs.
Foam Board: Price friendly and easy to print on after routing. Foam Board is a popular choice in event signs.
Laminates: There are hundreds of different types of laminate substrates available these days for a variety of effects and environments.
Why choose CNC routing ?
Precision and Accuracy: CNC routers are controlled by software that dictates the exact movements of the router. This leads to incredibly precise cuts and shapes, ensuring a high level of accuracy that is consistently repeatable, making it ideal for both single projects and large-scale production runs.
Complex Designs: CNC routing allows for complex and intricate designs that would be difficult or impossible to achieve manually. This capability makes it perfect for detailed decorative elements, sign making, and more.
Efficiency and Speed: CNC routers can produce large quantities of components quickly and continuously, reducing production time compared to manual routing. Once the design is programmed, the machine can run with minimal supervision, allowing for more efficient use of time and labor.
Versatility in Materials: CNC routers can work with a wide range of materials, including wood, plastics, foams, metals, and composites. This versatility allows manufacturers and designers to choose the most suitable material for their specific application or project.
Reduced Waste: The precision of CNC routing also means that material waste is minimized. Efficient cutting patterns and the ability to closely nest components in the material layout ensure that the maximum amount of raw material is used effectively.
Cost-Effective: For production runs, the efficiency and speed of CNC routing can lead to lower costs per unit. Although the initial setup and machinery costs might be high, the long-term savings on labor and the ability to produce more in less time often offset these initial investments.
Customization and Flexibility: Since changes in design can be made quickly by adjusting the CAD files, CNC routing offers excellent flexibility for customization without needing new tools or significant downtime.
Consistent Quality: Each part or product is replicated exactly the same way, ensuring consistent quality across all items produced, which is crucial for branding and quality control in manufacturing.
Integration with Modern Design Practices: CNC routing integrates seamlessly with modern design practices, working directly from CAD/CAM designs. This integration allows for rapid prototyping, quick alterations, and direct manufacturing, making it an essential tool in contemporary product development and manufacturing.