Product Introduction
The 3-axis CNC router is a versatile and widely used machine designed for cutting, carving, and engraving on flat materials along the X, Y, and Z axes. It is ideal for processing wood, plastic, MDF, acrylic, PVC, aluminum, and other soft materials. The spindle moves in three directions, allowing for precise 2D and shallow 3D machining. AccTek Group’s 3-axis CNC routers are built with strong frames, high-speed spindles, and reliable motion systems for smooth, accurate performance. They are commonly used in furniture production, signage, cabinetry, mold making, and decorative panel processing. With user-friendly control systems and compatible software, these machines are easy to operate and program. They offer high efficiency, consistent results, and low operating costs, making them perfect for small workshops and industrial manufacturers. AccTek Group provides customizable table sizes and configurations to meet various production needs, delivering dependable 3-axis solutions for entry-level and professional CNC applications.
Types of 3 Axis CNC Routers
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AK4040 CNC Router
$3,400.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
AK6060 CNC Router
$3,600.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
AK4040H CNC Router
$5,000.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
AK6060H CNC Router
$5,400.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
AK4040C CNC Router
$9,900.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
AK6060C CNC Router
$10,500.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
AKS7090 CNC Router
$5,100.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
AKS9015 CNC Router
$5,300.00 This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Application of 3 Axis CNC Routers
3-axis CNC routers are widely used in industries that require accurate and efficient material processing for flat and moderately contoured surfaces. In woodworking, they are ideal for cutting, carving, drilling, and engraving doors, cabinets, furniture parts, and decorative panels. In signage production, they handle the cutting and engraving of acrylic, PVC, MDF, and foam board for letters, logos, and displays. In the plastics industry, they are used to machine sheets and blocks into precise parts for industrial and consumer products. In metalworking, they process soft metals like aluminum and brass for nameplates, panels, and light-duty components. They are also used in model making, instrument production, and arts and crafts. AccTek Group’s 3-axis CNC routers offer stable performance, high-speed operation, and detailed results across a range of materials. They are suitable for small businesses, educational institutions, design studios, and large factories seeking reliable, repeatable production with minimal manual effort.
Customer Testimonials
3 Axis CNC Routers VS Other Engraving Machines
Comparison Item | 3 Axis CNC Router | Laser Engraving Machine | CNC Milling Center | CNC Lathe |
Cutting Method | Rotary cutting with a spindle and bits | Focused laser beam | Precision cutting with rigid tools | Cutting by rotating the workpiece |
Axes of Movement | 3 axes (X, Y, Z) | Typically 2 axes | 3 to 5 axes | 2 axes (X, Z) |
Material Compatibility | Wood, plastic, foam, soft metals | Non-metals, coated metals | Metals, plastics, and composites | Round metals, rigid plastics |
Best For | Flat and shallow 3D carving | Surface marking and fine engraving | High-precision machining | Cylindrical and symmetrical parts |
Surface Finish Quality | Good (depends on tooling) | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
Cutting Depth Capability | Moderate | Shallow (marking only) | High | High |
Precision | High (±0.1 mm) | Very high (±0.01 mm) | Very high (±0.01 mm) | High |
Complexity of Shapes | 2D + shallow 3D designs | Mostly 2D surface details | Complex 3D profiles | Rotational symmetry only |
Cutting Speed | Fast on soft materials | Very fast on thin materials | Slower due to precision | Fast for round parts |
Tool Wear | Moderate, depends on the material | None (non-contact) | High (especially for hard metals) | Moderate |
Maintenance Requirements | Low | Low | High | Medium |
Operating Cost | Low to moderate | Low | High | Moderate |
Setup Complexity | Easy to moderate | Easy | Complex | Moderate |
Automation Compatibility | High (CNC-based) | High | High | High |
Ideal Industries | Woodworking, signage, and plastics | Electronics, crafts, and packaging | Aerospace, molds, metal parts | Automotive, hardware, shafts |
Why Choose Us
AccTek Group is a professional manufacturer of CNC routers, delivering high-precision cutting, engraving, and milling solutions for wood, metal, plastic, and other materials. Our machines are engineered for stability, accuracy, and long-term performance, making them suitable for a wide range of industries, including furniture making, signage, prototyping, and metal fabrication. With advanced motion systems, powerful spindles, and intelligent control software, we help manufacturers enhance productivity and reduce labor costs. Backed by years of expertise in CNC technology, AccTek Group is committed to offering reliable machines, expert technical support, and tailored solutions that meet the evolving demands of modern production environments.
High Precision & Efficiency
AccTek CNC routers deliver fast, accurate results with minimal errors, supporting intricate designs and mass production across the woodworking, plastic, and metal industries.
Robust and Durable Design
Our machines are built with high-quality frames and components, ensuring long service life, high load-bearing capacity, and stability during high-speed operations.
Intelligent Control Systems
Equipped with user-friendly interfaces and smart controllers, our routers offer smooth motion control, automatic toolpath optimization, and easy integration with various CAD/CAM software.
Flexible Customization
From machine size to spindle power and motor type, we offer flexible configurations to suit different production needs, budgets, and material requirements.
Related Resources
What Is CNC Routing?
2025-03-10
Discover the fundamentals of CNC routing, its applications, advantages, challenges, and how advanced CNC technology enhances precision and efficiency across industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can 3-Axis CNC Routers Do?
3-axis CNC routers are the most common type of CNC machines. They move along the X (left/right), Y (front/back), and Z (up/down) axes. While they’re simpler than 4- or 5-axis machines, they’re capable of a wide range of tasks, especially for flat or slightly contoured workpieces. Here’s what 3-axis CNC routers can do:
- Cutting and Profiling: Shape the outer edge of a part from materials like wood, plastic, or soft metals. Great for signs, panels, and parts that need clean, accurate edges.
- Pocketing and Grooving: Remove material from inside a part to create pockets, slots, or grooves. Common in cabinetry, mold-making, and packaging designs.
- Engraving and Etching: Engrave text, logos, or designs into flat surfaces. Useful for signage, nameplates, and decorative work.
- Drilling and Boring: Drill accurate holes in consistent locations—ideal for joinery, hardware mounting, or assembly alignment.
- Relief Carving: Create 2.5D (two-and-a-half-dimensional) carvings, where depth varies slightly to give a 3D appearance. Used for art, signs, and wood panels.
- Template and Jig Making: Produce repeatable, precision templates and jigs to streamline other workshop operations.
- Small Batch Production: Efficiently produce multiple identical parts with tight tolerances, great for small businesses or prototyping.
What Materials Can 3-Axis CNC Routers Process?
3-axis CNC routers are primarily used for cutting and shaping flat or low-contour parts. While they’re best suited for wood, plastic, and foam, they can also process certain metals and stones—within limits. Here’s a breakdown:
- Wood: Handles softwoods, hardwoods, plywood, MDF, and particle board with ease. Ideal for furniture, cabinetry, signs, and decorative panels.
- Plastics: Processes acrylic, PVC, polycarbonate, HDPE, and similar materials. Useful in prototyping, enclosures, and display manufacturing.
- Foam: Cuts EVA, rigid foam, and polyurethane foam cleanly—great for packaging, props, and insulation.
- Soft Metals (Limited): Aluminum, brass, and copper can be machined with a rigid 3-axis CNC router, sharp bits, and proper feeds and speeds. However, metal removal is slower and less efficient than on a CNC mill.
- Stone (Limited): Some 3-axis CNC routers, especially heavy-duty or water-cooled models, can cut soft stone like marble, slate, or engineered stone. This requires the right tooling (diamond bits) and water or air cooling to prevent overheating.
- Composites: Handles fiberglass, carbon fiber, and laminates with appropriate tooling and dust control systems.
How Do I Choose 3-axis CNC Routers?
Choosing the right 3-axis CNC router depends on your work type, material, and production needs. Here’s what to focus on when making your decision:
- Material Compatibility
- Make sure the CNC router can handle your primary materials.
- For wood, plastics, and foam, most standard CNC routers work fine.
- For aluminum or composites, you’ll need a stronger frame and higher spindle power.
- Occasional stone or metal cutting? Look for industrial-grade models with cooling systems and proper tooling support.
- Spindle Power
- Spindle strength impacts cut depth, speed, and material range.
- 5kW–2.2kW: Light-duty use—good for signs, hobby work.
- 0kW–4.5kW: Mid-range—handles hardwood, MDF, soft metals.
- 5kW+: Heavy-duty—suitable for continuous use and denser materials.
- Work Area Size
- Pick a table size that matches your typical project.
- Common sizes: 600×900mm, 1300×2500mm, 1500×3000mm.
- Larger beds offer more flexibility but cost more and require more space.
- Frame and Rigidity
- A solid frame reduces vibration and improves accuracy.
- Prefer steel or heavy-duty aluminum builds.
- Avoid lightweight or flimsy frames for precision work.
- Drive System
- Ball screw drives: High precision, better for small, detailed work.
- Rack and pinion: Faster, better for large-format projects.
- Controller and Software
- Choose a machine with reliable control hardware and G-code compatibility.
- Look for DSP, Mach3, or RichAuto controllers.
- Ensure it works with common design software like Fusion 360, VCarve, or Aspire.
- Dust Collection
- Essential for clean operation—especially in wood or composite shops.
- Look for a dust shoe and proper ports for connecting a vacuum system.
- Customer Support and Warranty
- Good support saves time and money. Go with a brand that offers:
- Detailed manuals and videos
- Prompt tech support
- Easy access to replacement parts
How Much Do 3-Axis CNC Routers Cost?
3-axis CNC routers are available at different price points depending on build quality, work area size, spindle power, and intended use. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Consumer-Grade 3-Axis CNC Routers ($3,500–$4,000): These are entry-level machines designed for hobbyists, small workshops, or light-duty use. They typically have smaller work areas, lower spindle power (1.5kW–2.2kW), and basic controllers. Suitable for cutting wood, plastic, and foam with moderate accuracy.
- Industrial-Grade 3-Axis CNC Routers ($4,500–$7,000): Built for durability and precision, these routers come with stronger frames, larger work areas, and higher spindle power (3.0kW–4.5kW). They can handle hardwoods, composites, and even light aluminum, making them ideal for professional shops and production environments.
What Are The Disadvantages Of 3-axis CNC Routers?
3-axis CNC routers are widely used for their simplicity, reliability, and affordability. But they do have limitations compared to more advanced machines. Here are the main disadvantages:
- Limited to Simple Geometries: They can only move along the X, Y, and Z axes, so they can’t machine complex undercuts, deep cavities, or full 3D surfaces from multiple angles.
- Single-Side Machining: To machine multiple sides of a part, you have to manually flip or reposition it, which increases setup time and risks alignment errors.
- Slower for Complex Jobs: 3-axis CNC routers take longer to machine intricate parts that would be faster and easier on a 4- or 5-axis machine.
- Material Access Limitations: They can’t reach around or underneath features, which limits their use for molds, aerospace parts, or detailed sculptures.
- Less Efficient for High-Volume or Multi-Tool Work: Without an automatic tool changer (unless custom added), every tool swap must be done manually, slowing down production.
- Not Ideal for Heavy Metal or Stone Work: Most 3-axis CNC routers aren’t rigid enough for prolonged cutting of dense materials like steel or granite. They’re better suited for wood, plastic, foam, and soft metals like aluminum.
What Spindle Power Options Are Available For 3-Axis CNC Routers?
Spindle power is a key factor in determining what a 3-axis CNC router can cut and how efficiently it performs. The more powerful the spindle, the deeper and faster it can cut, especially in tough materials. Here are the most common spindle power options:
- 1.5kW: Light-duty use. Best for engraving, signs, and small woodworking projects using softwood, plastic, or foam.
- 2.2kW: Entry-level spindle for light to moderate workloads. Can handle hardwood, MDF, acrylic, and even light aluminum with proper settings.
- 3.0kW – 3.2kW: Popular in mid-range machines. Offers solid performance for most woodworking, signage, and general fabrication jobs.
- 3.5kW – 4.5kW: More torque and durability for continuous operation. Cuts hardwoods, plastics, and aluminum efficiently. Good for small production shops.
- 5.5kW – 6.0kW: Heavy-duty spindle power for demanding materials and deeper cuts. Suitable for larger jobs and moderate metalworking tasks.
- 7.5kW – 9.0kW: High-performance industrial use. Handles thick, dense materials and extended runtimes without overheating. Ideal for manufacturing environments.
What Are The Dangers Of Using 3-Axis CNC Routers?
3-axis CNC routers are powerful tools, but like any industrial equipment, they carry safety risks if not used properly. Here are the main dangers:
- Moving Parts and Pinch Points: Exposed motors, gantries, and spindles can injure fingers or clothing if someone reaches into the machine while it’s running.
- High-Speed Cutting Tools: The spindle spins at thousands of RPM. Contact with the bit, while rotating or not, can cause severe injuries.
- Flying Debris: Wood, plastic, or metal chips can become projectiles during cutting. Bits can also snap and fly off. Eye protection is a must.
- Noise Exposure: CNC routers can be loud, especially in enclosed spaces or when cutting hard materials. Prolonged exposure can damage hearing.
- Dust and Fumes: Cutting wood, plastics, or composites generates fine dust and potentially toxic fumes. Without proper extraction, it can affect both machine and human health.
- Electrical Hazards: Improper wiring or damaged cables can cause an electric shock or fire. Always ensure proper grounding and use certified equipment.
- Fire Risk: Friction from cutting or a broken bit can ignite wood dust or flammable materials if the workspace isn’t well managed.
- Software or Input Errors: Incorrect G-code or setup can cause sudden, unpredictable movements, leading to crashes or damage to the machine and workpiece.
What Maintenance Is Required For 3-Axis CNC Routers?
Routine maintenance keeps a 3-axis CNC router accurate, efficient, and running longer with fewer breakdowns. Whether you’re using it daily or occasionally, here are the key maintenance tasks:
- Daily Maintenance
- Clean the Work Area: Remove chips, dust, and debris from the table, rails, and spindle.
- Inspect Tools and Bits: Check for dullness, wear, or cracks. Replace as needed.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: If the CNC router requires manual oiling, apply lubricant to rails and ball screws.
- Check Air Pressure (if applicable): For machines using pneumatic systems, verify pressure and filter condition.
- Weekly Maintenance
- Inspect Belts and Chains: Look for signs of wear, cracking, or looseness.
- Tighten Bolts and Screws: Vibration can cause hardware to loosen—check frame, gantry, and tool mounts.
- Check Spindle Runout: Spin the spindle and check for wobble or abnormal noise.
- Clean Linear Rails and Bearings: Wipe them down with a lint-free cloth and apply appropriate grease or oil.
- Monthly Maintenance
- Calibrate the Machine: Run test cuts or use a dial indicator to check for axis accuracy.
- Inspect Electrical Connections: Make sure cables, limit switches, and control boards are secure and undamaged.
- Drain Moisture from Air Compressors (if used): Prevent water buildup that can damage components.
- Annual or Long-Term Maintenance
- Replace Spindle Bearings (as needed): If the spindle is noisy or overheating, bearings may be worn.
- Update Software/Firmware: Check for updates from the machine or controller manufacturer.
- Deep Clean and Inspect: Take time to clean internal panels, control boxes, and check for wear on all mechanical systems.
- Important Notes
- Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and use recommended lubricants and cleaning products.
- Log maintenance tasks to track wear, catch issues early, and stay organized.
Get CNC Routing Solutions
AccTek Group is a professional CNC router manufacturer dedicated to providing high-performance, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for your cutting, engraving, and milling needs. Whether you’re in woodworking, metal fabrication, advertising, or another industry, our expert team is ready to help you find the right machine to boost your productivity and efficiency.
If you have questions about our CNC routers, need a customized solution, or want to learn more about machine specifications, pricing, or delivery, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Simply fill out the contact form, email us, or reach out via phone. One of our knowledgeable representatives will get back to you promptly with the information you need. Partner with AccTek Group and take your manufacturing capabilities to the next level.
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