CNC router cutting uses a fast-spinning cutter on a large gantry machine to cut, pocket and engrave sheets laid on a vacuum table. It handles materials that a laser cannot or should not cut, such as PVC, thick acrylic, aluminium composite panels, HDPE, nylon, plywood and thin aluminium. It suits panels, signs, fixtures, gaskets and machine guards.
Quick facts
- Materials
- Plastics, wood, aluminium, composite panels, foam
- Bed size
- About 1.2 × 2.4 m common; larger available
- Thickness
- Up to about 50 mm (1.97 inch) in plastics and wood
- Accuracy
- About ±0.1–0.2 mm (±0.0039–0.0079 inch)
- Input
- DXF or DWG at 1:1
- Usually priced
- Per sheet, per part or per hour
Router or laser?
| CNC router | Laser | |
|---|---|---|
| PVC | Yes | No (toxic fumes) |
| Thick acrylic | Yes | Yes, slower |
| Pockets and steps | Yes | No |
| Fine detail | Limited by cutter size | Very fine |
What to send
- DXF or DWG at 1:1 with cut, pocket and engrave layers
- Material and thickness
- Quantity
- Edge finish needed
- Whether you supply the sheets
Need cnc router cutting done?
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Questions
- Can a CNC router cut aluminium?
- Yes, thin sheet and plate, with the right cutter, speed and coolant or mist.
- Why do inside corners come out rounded?
- The cutter is round, so inside corners keep the cutter's radius. Small cutters give smaller radii.
- What file does a router need?
- A 1:1 DXF or DWG; 3D shapes need a 3D model.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 23 October 2026.