It means a computer converts the design which Computer Aided Design software (CAD) produces, into numbers. These are like the co-ordinates of a graph and they control the cutter’s movement. The computer controls the cutting and shaping of the material to give greater precision, consistency and accuracy.

From start to finish, the whole process is automated. The design and shape of the cut are fed into the computer, and the machine does the cutting without manual help.

While cnc machine may once have been prohibitively expensive, and used exclusively by heavy industry, today the lower prices mean the equipment and its benefits are much more widely accessible.  Once the machinery is in place, production is low cost and machines repeat tasks very accurately, with minimal human intervention.

For smaller orders particularly, though, it may not be cost-effective to do your own cutting, so it’s a good idea to get it done professionally.

At Booker Timber, we’re independent timber merchants supplying industrial customers across the UK, as well as the trade and DIY sectors in our region, the north west of England. Whether you need cut to size chipboard, or cut to size mdf, we can help. And we love a challenge!

As well as cutting timber related products, we can cut plasterboard and plastic. We have some of the best and most modern equipment to do it. Check out our website today – it’s packed with helpful information.