CNC Dept

Using CAD & CAM tools to create and replicate designs, tools and products

About CNC Tools and Software

CNC stands for computer numerical control. CNC is the automated control of machining tools (such as routers, mills and other tools) by means of a computer. Software tools facilitate the Design (CAD) and Manufacture (CAM) of many things.

Using CAD/CAM allows for a higher level of precision in machining and absolute repeatability across multiple jobs. At Xerocraft, we have the tools, software, and experience to help you learn all about it!

Our CNC Tools at Xerocraft

Our biggest CNC router has a huge 4'x4' bed with an MDF sacrificial spoil board. It has a high speed (24,000 RPM) router head. It's idea for large wood projects and includes dust collection to help minimize the mess. We've upgraded and enhanced the original unit to improve it's capabilities and reliability.

Learn more about designing for and using this unit in the videos below.

This slightly smaller router also works great with wood and is very precise. It has a sturdy frame and a cast aluminum 2'x3' bed with t-track slots for easy material hold-down. It can also handle light non-ferrous metals like aluminum for some jobs.

Like it's larger brother, this unit uses a reliable Mach 4 software control interface and can accept G-Code from either VCarve or Fusion 360.

Our CNC Mill is a dedicated metalworking mill with the precision of computer control.

It allows for a number of stock mounting options, including the vise pictured.

Xerocraft keeps a selection of standard mills, cutters, and tools on hand to handle most typical projects. Of course, if you have special needs, you're encouraged to bring the cutting tools that you need for your specialized materials or projects.

Designing for CNC - The CAD in CAD/CAM

It may seem intimidating, but if you know how to design using 2D drawing tools like Inkscape or Adobe Illustrator, you already know most of what it takes to design for CNC output.

At it's simplest, all you need to do is take a vector SVG file and import it into VCarve Pro for processing.

But you don't have to buy any software. As a non-profit Makerspace, Xerocraft has a special license that allows you to install VCarve Pro on your home computer and do much of the work remotely. Once your project is ready to output, you just bring it into our shop and output it to our CNC router.

And if you need a vector design tool, Inkscape is free and open-source. Download Inkscape here.

New to 2D design? Here is a video to get you started.

Of course, if you're an experienced CAD designer, you can use tools like Fusion 360 or Solidworks to create your designs.

Fusion 360 is free for personal and hobbyist use. Download Fusion 360 here.


Designing and Cutting with the Xerocraft CNC Routers

A two-part video series

Xerocraft CNC Mill Quick Video Introduction

Design and Manufacturing Using Fusion 360

Using the Xerocraft FrankenBot (Handibot)

A demonstration video from the CNCUG

Want to know more? Contact Us!