Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started with CNC
▾ What is a CNC router and what can it be used for?
A CNC router is a computer-controlled cutting machine used to cut, engrave and machine materials such as wood, MDF, plastics, composites and non-ferrous metals like aluminium. They are commonly used in furniture manufacturing, joinery, signage, education and prototyping.
▾ What is a CNC router and how is it different from a laser machine?
A CNC router uses rotating cutting tools and is ideal for sheet materials like wood, MDF, plastics and aluminium. Laser machines use focused light and are best for engraving, marking or cutting thinner materials.
▾ Do I need previous CNC experience?
No. Many customers are new to CNC. Our machines are designed to be user-friendly and we offer training and support to help you get started.
▾ Are your machines suitable for education and training environments?
Yes. We supply CNC machines to schools, colleges and training centres across the UK. Enclosed machines are particularly popular in education due to their safety features and reduced noise. If you have an enquiry about our machines for education please contact our educational distributor Techsoft.
See enclosed CNC routers
▾ What materials can your CNC machines cut or engrave?
Depending on the machine, materials include wood, MDF, plastics, composites, acrylics and non-ferrous metals such as aluminium.
Choosing the right machine
▾ Which CNC machine is right for me?
The right machine depends on:
- the material you’re cutting
- the size of material
- how often the machine will be used
- whether you need an Automatic tool changer or not
Our CNC buying guide helps narrow this down.
▾ What size CNC machine do I need?
Choose a machine based on the largest sheet or part you plan to cut. If unsure, selecting a slightly larger working area can help future-proof your setup. Our CNC machines tend to be based around standard material sheet sizes such as 8*4.
▾ Can you make a specific size machine?
Absolutely, we regularly design and manufacture custom size machines to suit your application.
▾ Should I choose an enclosed or open CNC router?
- Enclosed machines offer improved safety, dust containment and reduced noise
- Open-frame machines offer easier access and are common in workshop environments
Both options deliver the same cutting accuracy, the choice is mainly about environment and access.
▾ Do I need automatic tool changing (ATC)?
Automatic tool changing is ideal if you:
- run repeat jobs
- use multiple tools per job
- want faster workflows
Manual machines offer excellent value for simpler or lower-volume work.
▾ What’s the difference between entry-level and production CNC machines?
Entry-level machines focus on value and simplicity, while production machines offer higher speeds, automation and durability for continuous use.
▾ Can I upgrade or add options later?
Yes. Many machines support optional upgrades such as tooling, software and automation, depending on the model.
Tooling & capability
▾ Can your CNC routers cut aluminium?
Yes. Many of our machines are suitable for cutting aluminium and other non-ferrous metals when correctly specified and tooled. For example our M5 and M1 series machine will cut aluminium.
▾ What thickness material can I cut?
This depends on the machine, tooling and setup. Working height and cutter length also need to be considered. For example a machine with a 200mm gantry clearance can cut approximately 100mm thick material (100mm material + 100mm cutter). We offer raised gantry options if more clearance is needed.
▾ What size collets do your CNC machines use?
Collet size depends on the machine and spindle type. Our open bed ATC machines generally use iso30 tooling with ER32 collets, our A1S machines use ER25 collets and our enclosed ATC machines use iso20 tooling with ER20 collets. Please check in the specification for each model.
▾ Where should I buy cutters and tooling?
We supply a range of cutters and tooling suitable for our machines. If you already use a tooling supplier, we’re also happy to advise on the most suitable cutters for your materials and applications.
Power, space & site requirements
▾ What power supply do I need?
Power requirements vary by machine. Some models run on single-phase power, while others require three-phase. This is always clearly listed on the product page. There is usually the option on our machines to choose single-phase power although you may compromise on spindle or vacuum pump power on a single-phase supply.
3 phase is generally more efficient to run.
If you’re unsure what supply you have or require, we can advise before purchase.
▾ Do I need three-phase power?
Only some machines require three-phase power. We can advise if your chosen machine is suitable for your available supply.
▾ What needs to be in place before delivery?
Adequate power, space, access for delivery and a forklift truck. Details are confirmed before delivery. We have specific pre-delivery sheets which detail electrical requirements before hand. You will also require a compressed air supply if choosing an ATC machine.
▾ How much space do I need?
You’ll need space for:
- the machine footprint, side cabinet, vacuum pump and dust extractor
- access for loading material
- safe operator movement
- Consideration for walkways and safety devices/guards/partitions
Enclosed machines are often chosen where space or noise is limited.
Software & ease of use
▾ What software is included?
Most CNC routers are supplied with industry-proven control software, ready to use. Typically we supply Ucancam software or Vectric. Our machines will work with almost any such as fusion360, solidworks etc. Optional CAD/CAM software upgrades are also available.
▾ Can I use my existing CAD/CAM software?
In most cases, yes. Our machines support common file formats used by popular CAD/CAM packages. We’re happy to confirm compatibility before purchase. We can also send you a sample code to match up or pass to your software provider to create a post processor.
▾ Do I need to learn G-code to run a CNC machine?
No. G-code is generated automatically by the software when toolpaths are created. Software such as Vectric is designed to be very user friendly.
▾ How is the CNC program or code generated?
The code is created by applying toolpaths in CAD/CAM software, which then outputs a file the machine can run.
Installation, training & support
▾ Do you offer delivery, installation and training?
Yes. Delivery, installation and training are available on all of our machines.
▾ What support do you offer after purchase?
We provide:
- UK-based technical support
- remote assistance
- training videos
- Unlimited phone support
- spare parts availability
- ongoing advice
- 24/7 whatsapp support
You’re not left on your own after delivery. We pride ourselves in our top class support and after sales service.
▾ What warranty is included?
All machines are supplied with our comprehensive parts and labour warranty, typically 12 or 24 months or more depending on the model. Warranty details are clearly listed on each product page.
▾ Are spare parts available in the UK?
Yes. We stock a huge range of spare parts in the UK to minimise downtime.
▾ Do CNC machines require servicing or maintenance?
Yes. Routine maintenance and periodic servicing help ensure reliability and long-term performance. We offer annual servicing of our various machines. Please contact us for details.
Pricing, delivery & ordering
▾ Are prices shown excluding VAT?
Yes. All prices shown are excluding VAT.
▾ Is delivery included?
Delivery terms vary by machine and location. This is clearly shown on product pages or confirmed at quotation stage. Please contact us for a delivery quote or you can use our delivery cost estimator on each product page.
▾ How long is the lead time on a CNC machine?
We try and hold a large amount of our popular machines in UK stock. In this case, delivery and install is generally within 2 weeks. If the machine is not in stock then the lead time is approximately 13 weeks.
▾ Can I see a machine working before buying?
Yes, we have a showroom where you can see various models being demonstrated. Showroom visits are by appointment. Please contact us to discuss demonstrations or site visits and which machines are available.
▾ Do you offer finance options?
Finance options are available at a competitive rate through our finance partners. Please see our finance page or link on each product page, or contact us to discuss current options.
Still have questions?
Choosing a CNC machine is an important investment. If you’d like honest advice tailored to your application, our team is happy to help.
Contact us to speak to a CNC specialist
Which CNC machine is right for you?