So, after a lot of thought you’re finally ready to pull the trigger on a bigger, better CNC machine. You’ve been using your tabletop router for some time, but it’s just not cutting it anymore (pun intended). You need a more productive, capable, reliable machine.
Diversified Machine Systems (DMS) has been connecting customers to their optimal CNC router for 30 years, and we’ve developed a set of considerations to help steer you in the right direction. This is a big investment, and we want to ensure you get the best return—and avoid buyer’s remorse. So before you pull the trigger on your new CNC machine, we recommend asking these three questions.
1. How Much Space Do I Have?
The first and most important thing to consider when upgrading your CNC machine is how much space you have. At DMS we believe that every square foot matters, which is why we offer machines of various sizes and footprints to fit your space. A heavy-duty, large-format machine will need 6-inches of reinforced concrete base, while a 3-axis machine from our Freedom Line might be a better option if you don’t have a good foundation.
Even if you don’t have much floor space, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice productivity. DMS offers machines with multiple carriages, as well as multi-channel machines that can run multiple programs at the same time—up to four programs. We want to ensure that every square foot of your space pulls its weight.
2. Do I Have Enough Power?
The second thing to consider is power and utilities. If you’re working from a garage, your space can likely support a 220-volt machine. DMS manufactures many machines in that range, especially among our three-axis routers. However, more powerful routers require 460 volts, which is a bigger demand for some settings. In some cases it’s possible to adjust for the right amperage with a transformer, but it’s important to double-check your electrical situation before choosing your router.
3. How Is My Air Quality?
CNC routers are workhorses, but they are also intricate machines. You will need consistent, dry air for your machine to run properly, as well as a dust collection system. Most DMS machines require 90-100 Psi compressed air at either five or ten CFM, depending on which machine you choose. When it comes to dust collection, we provide open-format or enclosed options, depending on your needs. There’s a lot you can do to mitigate problems with dust and debris and ensure a high air quality.
As you prepare to purchase your new CNC router, we trust that these three questions will help you make an informed decision. An awareness of your space, power, and air quality tells you a lot about what kind of machine you need. And we at Diversified Machine Systems are always here to talk through logistics with you and even customize our machines to your exact specifications. When you’re ready to buy a new CNC machine, we’ll do everything we can to help you make your decision with confidence.
