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How to Make Designs Fit the Right Space: CNC Machining

Jobs come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a run of 100 table tops for a restaurant chain or an individual children’s playground tower, the ability to cut materials to the correct specifications can save a business valuable time and money.

Computer numerical control (CNC) machining uses software to program specified shapes and designs into the material used, creating exact designs with minimum wastage.

Plywood, MDF and solid grade laminate are just some of the materials that can be cut into limitless designs using CNC machining.

Read this guide to find out more.

Introduction

About This Guide

This guide will look at the CNC machining service available at Panel Systems, the benefits of using CNC technology and the steps our staff will take to complete your project.

The Benefits of CNC Machining

We here at Panel Systems will support your work every step of the way, from planning to fitting. Utilising our one-stop-shop service brings the following benefits:

Reduced cutting time — The ability to order size specifications at point of purchase reduces the need to arrange a separate cutting service, either internally or externally. This can save both time and money.

The staff at Panel Systems are experienced at working with a number of different materials. Here are some of the materials we have worked with in the past:

  • aluminium honeycomb
  • polypropylene panels
  • aluminium composites
  • solid grade laminate
  • plywood
  • MDF

Minimised wastage — Many businesses place the prevention of material wastage as a top priority due to its impact on profit margins.

Main contractors often have primary responsibility for waste disposal; however, sub- contractors can also benefit through falling tender prices and a subsequent advantage over rival firms.

Our CNC machining service will keep off-cuts to a minimum by using of a computer-controlled process that shapes your product in the most economical way using the least number of sheets possible.

Improved environmental impact — Alongside the typical cost considerations faced by building companies, there is a growing awareness around the environmental impact of construction waste. A demonstrable commitment to sustainability both improves reputation around environmental policies and works well as a marketing tool.

A general commitment to reducing a company’s carbon footprint also helps to foster a culture of efficiency among staff.

What does Panel Systems offer?

  • Cutting and drilling service to bespoke customer.
  • Customised CAD files.
  • The supply of all associated accessories and fixing systems.
  • A CNC routing service with 3 and 5 axis technology for complex shapes, face grooving, blind drilling. We can also machine panels in preparation for concealed fixing systems.
  • Site support and fixing advice.
  • Edge profiling and face grooving.

We here at Panel Systems will support your cladding work every step of the way, from planning to fitting.

A step-by-step guide to our CNC service

Planning

Meeting

The first step is to have a meeting to discuss the size, shape and quantities you are looking for. We can offer advice and expertise at this early stage to ensure you get the best price and an efficient service.

Optimisation software

We utilise the latest ‘Magicut’ optimisation software. We input the sizes and quantities you require and the software will work out how to cut them in the most economical way.

CAD and bespoke designs

Panel Systems is able to accept customers’ own CAD files to create tailored designs. These CAD designs will be included into our Magicut optimisation software to ensure efficiency. CAD designs can also be used for engraving such things as branding or other intricate patterns on your panels.

For bespoke designs, the choice is yours. Once the designs are agreed, rapid prototyping can take place to produce the finished panel, ready for approval, prior to full production.

Production

Cutting and drilling service

Panel Systems offers a full machining service, which includes 3 and 5 axis routers for high-quality machining of panels, using the latest computer-controlled beam saw technology. All our panels are cut to fine tolerances, meaning less wastage. We also fabricate boards for secret fix and specialist systems. We can drill the board, saving you time onsite.

Installation

Packaging

Packaging can be overlooked by some panelling companies, but we think it’s incredibly important for ease-of-use and time saving. We explain how we intend to cut your material and then package it in order of fitting — saving you time on site.

Accessories included

We offer everything you need for full installation, including:

  • Jointing strips
  • Screws
  • Torx screws
  • Adhesive systems

Site support and fixing advice

We can visit sites to offer assistance both pre and post production. We can offer the most economical ways to go about your product solution, along with fixing advice and information.

Applications

The CNC machine can be used to create specific shapes in a number of materials for a wide range of applications, including:

  • caravan interiors
  • hospital bed bases
  • fixed outside furniture
  • indoor furniture bathroom pod panels
  • children’s playground towers
  • grooved CNC SGL panels for garage kiosks

Need More Help?

The Panel Systems staff have extensive knowledge and experience across a wide range of materials and industries. Whatever stage of the process you are at, we can help you to deliver you material on time and to the correct specifications.

Contact us

Get in touch to find out more about pricing, or to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Get in touch to find out more about pricing, or to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Call us on 0114 249 5626

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