CNC Routers

CNC routers are computer-controlled machines that carve and cut wood, foam, some plastics and metal. It’s basically a spinning drill bit that removes material. While 3D printers represent additive forms of fabrication (they slowly add material where none exists), CNC machines represent a subtractive form of fabrication (because they remove existing material to create a product).

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What can I make with a CNC router?

You can make all types of things with a CNC router – from furniture to jewelry and more – similar to the laser engraver. The difference is the CNC router can handle thicker and larger material.

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Location

Maker Hub – Downtown

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Safety

The CNC router is located in the Safety Zone so please review the Safety Zone rules on our policies webpage.

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Tutorials and resources

Learn more about our required CNC training on the Maker Hub’s Moodle site. 

• Guide: ShopBot Desktop Max – this guide is a recap of what you learned in the training. This guide outlines the entire process of creating a file to cutting it, including important safety rules for the ShopBot.
• VCarve Pro Tutorials – video tutorials for using VCarve Pro, the software you’ll need to prepare your file for the ShopBot.
• ABCs of ShopBot CNC – short videos highlighting different materials you can use with the CNC.
• Adobe Illustrator is now available to Elon students and staff. Read more about downloading Adobe Creative Cloud. Illustrator files can easily be imported into VCarve Pro.
• Learn how to use Adobe Illustrator with LinkedIn Learning tutorials. Free access for Elon users.
• Checksheet: ShopBot Desktop Max – Outlines steps to complete before starting an engrave or cut (Elon login required).

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Details

The ShopBot Desktop Max can accommodate materials up to 24” x 36” in size.