When purchasing a CNC router machine, it is critical to understand the different types of working tables so that you choose one that is best suited for your needs. There are three main types of wood CNC working tables; the aluminium t-slot, the full vacuum and the t-slot vacuum
table.
1. Aluminium T-slot
This table uses fasteners to keep the material fixed on the working table. It is done by manually tightening the work piece to the table so that it will stay fixed during machining. The table top has an aluminium profile with t-lot and a layer of PCV material. This is the most economical out of the three options, hence if you have a limited budget you should opt for this table. It will take a few minutes to properly fasten the material, thus increasing production time. It comes with the advantage of being able to clamp irregular shaped materials, and is more suitable if boring and endorsing is being done. It is also anti-corrosive, wear resistance and easy to maintain. Aluminium t-slot tables are recommended for smaller scale woodwork shops, occasional users of CNC wood routers or someone who is looking for a cheaper priced CNC router machine.
2. Full Vacuum Table
This working table is a fully vacuum absorption system for holding work pieces during machining. It is connected to vacuum pump through pipe line underneath the table structure. A vacuum table consists of multiple small absorption holes on the table surface to move air from under a work piece, as to apply varying vacuum from between the desired work piece. The table maintains a clamping force greater than that needed to machine a part. The operator can put the material on the table then turn on the vacuum valve. The wood router will properly hold the material with suction through the table, which leads to an increase in accuracy and efficiency. This table saves time compared to the aluminium t-slot table hence increasing production speed. Full vacuum tables are recommend for higher scale woodworking shops where mass production volume is necessary, wooden doors processing factories or any industry where production speed is critical.
3. T-slot Vacuum Table
This is a types CNC table that is a combination of vacuum and T-slot structure. It gives you both the advantages of aluminium t-slot and vacuum table. This table is great for panel wood machining and also irregular shaped materials. If you desire to work with various sizes of wood this table will be most suitable. This table is also recommend for higher scale factories where production volume is high, and production speed is critical.
