CNC

One of the key uses of CAD software is to produce drawings that will be used to operate CNC machines. Whilst CNC technology has been around for decades, it’s still evolving nowadays, complementing new manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing. In recent years, Scan2CAD introduced support for G-code, making it easier to go from an initial raster image to a finished, machined product. In this category, we’ll cover some of the new innovations in the field of CNC, and how the technology can be used on the journey from an initial drawing into a finished end product.
g-code converter, blue red graphics

G-code Converter: How to Convert to G-Code

g-code converter, blue red graphics

Manufacturing is broad and, with the evolution and increased use of technology, it has grown even more sophisticated. It now includes the use of computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software and computer-aided design (CAD) software packed with numerous features to ease the process…

free sites with g-code files

5 Sites with Free G-Code Files for CNC

free sites with g-code files

If your profession calls for regular use of CNC machines, you will be in constant need of CNC G-code files to conduct the various machining operations. However, creating a G-Code file or converting a vector or raster file into G-Code for…

Reverse Engineering on dark grey background

How to Reverse Engineer Physical Objects

Reverse Engineering on dark grey background

Reverse engineering physical objects is a process that basically involves reproducing a product – often either digitally or on paper – through a careful and detailed examination of its construction and assembly. This process of acquiring and analyzing detailed design information…

Designing for CNC

Designing for CNC – 6 Tips for Improving Your CNC Designs

Designing for CNC

CNC technology has revolutionized the design and manufacturing industries. Although it’s been available for a while now – the first CNC milling machine was developed in the early 1950s – only recently has it gained traction outside of industrial and commercial…

laser cutting machine

How To Convert an Image for Laser Cutting

laser cutting machine

Any modern maker or manufacturer understands the growing importance of CNC laser engraving and cutting. What was once available as industry-grade tools are now getting released as affordable desktop machines. This makes laser cutting something that can be utilized by a…

geometric drinks coasters

CNC Inspiration: 32 Products You Could Make & Sell Today

geometric drinks coasters

Over the years CNC machining has grown to become an integral part of many industries including automotive, aerospace, medicine, manufacturing, food, sports, and fashion. Hundreds of thousands of companies are using CNC machines to create both simple and complex products that…

woman using computer desk

Compared: Best CNC Design Software

woman using computer desk

CAD is a crucial aspect of manufacturing and product development. Thankfully, solutions that enable you to design highly accurate models are readily available. In most cases, design has to be carried out before you even consider manufacturing. One of the most…

Circular metal gasket - Convert gasket for CAD/CAM & CNC

How to Scan a Gasket and Convert to CAD

Circular metal gasket - Convert gasket for CAD/CAM & CNC

Gaskets are a fundamental part of any precision or industrial-grade machine. In essence, they are mechanical seals that serve as fillers between two disjointed but interconnecting parts of a machine or assembly. They make it possible for two mating surfaces that…

Woman drawing paper pattern, girl in orange dress, black t-shirts on hangers

How To Digitize Apparel Patterns

Woman drawing paper pattern, girl in orange dress, black t-shirts on hangers

Hobbyist needleworkers and large clothing industries alike make use of digitized apparel patterns to accurately and quickly cut designs for prototyping. In the design and manufacturing processes, these apparel patterns are vital in duplicating and developing apparel designs. The use of…

CNC cut paper design held in front of mountains and river

CNC Guide: How to Convert DXF to G-Code

CNC cut paper design held in front of mountains and river

If you’re unfamiliar with CNC (Computer Numerical Control), it enables machines like laser cutters and water jets to transform computer-based designs into physical products. For example, fancy creating a new sign for your store? All you need is your chosen design…

The Ox - Open Source CNC Machine

Build Your Own CNC Machine

The Ox - Open Source CNC Machine

CNC machines have been around for decades, with their history stretching back to the 1950s. In that time, they’ve transformed the way we manufacture things. They’ve also helped to democratize the process, providing a way for budding engineers and makers around…

Nesting in Manufacturing

Nesting – Everything You Need to Know

Nesting in Manufacturing

As a raster-to-vector conversion software, Scan2CAD has applications across a wide range of fields. One of the most common uses of Scan2CAD, however, is the conversion of images for CNC machining purposes. With Scan2CAD, it’s easy to convert a raster image…