Top 9 Articles for CNC Router Users

Last modified: July 17, 2024

(This article was originally the Top 5, but I found 4 more articles you shouldn't miss!)

Machining operations chart with feed rates and spindle speeds.

11 Easy CNC Router Aluminum Cutting Tips

Folks often ask whether a CNC Router can cut aluminum.  They’re used to seeing them primarily cut wood and plastics.  My answer to this question is always, “Yes, any CNC Router can cut aluminum if you do it right.”  I’m going to tell you EXACTLY how to cut aluminum with your CNC Router with these 10 easy tips.

Empty classroom with rows of desks and chairs.

Free Online CNC Training Courses

10 Free Online Training Courses and Guides for CNC Machinists. Increase your skills by learning more about Feeds & Speeds, G-Code, and much more.

Wooden blocks with dark brown color and visible grain patterns on a white background.

Definitive Guide to Feeds and Speeds for Wood

Here’s your comprehensive guide to Feeds and Speeds for Wood, together with Tips and Techniques that are specific to cutting wood on a CNC Machine.

Two drill bits, up-cut and down-cut, labeled and illustrated with arrows on a white background.

CNC Router Cutter Types and how to use them

While you can use endmills and twist drills that are typical of the non-router (routers are also called gantry mills, if you prefer) CNC world, there are a number of special CNC Router Bits than can help out in a variety of situations and that’s what this article is all about.

Feeds and Speeds: The Definitive Guide

Our free online course that teaches you Feeds & Speeds.

Total Guide to CNC Router Workholding

Good solid workholding is a key part of making a CNC Router perform well. This guide will walk you through the best methods to use to hold your workpiece down on your CNC Router.

A campfire burning in an open field at night.

Survive Your First CNC Router Fire

A fire in your CNC Router is probably just a matter of time.  Seasoned router users know this and prepare for it.  This article will show you how.

15 Reasons Cutters Get Broken on Small Machines

Nobody likes breaking cutters, but beginners seem to dread it the most.  That little “tink”, the broken cutter tip flies across the room, and suddenly you’re unhappy.  I’ve helped out a lot of beginners here at CNCCookbook, and I’ve helped diagnose a lot of recurring problems with these 15 tips.

What's an Entry-Level CNC Machine Capable Of?

This article is just good clean fun.  Check out the crazy cool things people have made with their Shapeoko routers.  If they can do these things, so can you!

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