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CNC machining design with engraved letters - help needed

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T
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Hello! I need some advice on CNC machining designs with mechanical engraving.

should I integrate the lettering directly into my CAD designs, or is it better to engrave them after machining, separately? I’m planning on 2-3 mm deep engravings with letter heights around 15 mm. Also, I’m aware that machining can’t achieve perfect 90-degree internal corners. I’ve heard Sans Serif is a good choice for fonts—any truth to that, or do you have other font recommendations?

p.s. I’ve done some googling already but I’m a bit lost, there’s so much information out there, and sometimes it’s a bit self-contradictory ..

Thank you in advance! 

Solved by Attila Szucs
Certainly, Todor! In the realm of CNC (CADCAM) machining, integrating engraving directly into your CAD designs primarily serves a visual presentation role. It's not the most practical approach for the actual machining process. The most effective strategy is to keep the engraving separate and focus on simplicity for both execution and readability. Key Points: CAD Designs: Use them for showcasing how the final product should look, including the positioning and style of the engravings. It’s great for planning and visual approval but not for the machining itself. Best Practice for CNC Machining: Font Selection: Opt for the simplest possible design, often just a single-stroke line. This ensures clarity, ease of machining, and minimizes complications. Machining Approach: Perform the engraving as a separate step from the primary machining process. This allows for adjustments and ensures precision without compromising the part's integrity. By focusing on these principles, you'll achieve optimal results in your CNC projects. If there’s anything more you’d like to dive into or clarify, feel free to reach out! Thanks, Attila
    • T

      Hello! I need some advice on CNC machining designs with mechanical engraving.

      should I integrate the lettering directly into my CAD designs, or is it better to engrave them after machining, separately? I’m planning on 2-3 mm deep engravings with letter heights around 15 mm. Also, I’m aware that machining can’t achieve perfect 90-degree internal corners. I’ve heard Sans Serif is a good choice for fonts—any truth to that, or do you have other font recommendations?

      p.s. I’ve done some googling already but I’m a bit lost, there’s so much information out there, and sometimes it’s a bit self-contradictory ..

      Thank you in advance! 

      0
    • Xometry Engineer

      Certainly, Todor!

      In the realm of CNC (CADCAM) machining, integrating engraving directly into your CAD designs primarily serves a visual presentation role. It’s not the most practical approach for the actual machining process. The most effective strategy is to keep the engraving separate and focus on simplicity for both execution and readability.

      Key Points:
      CAD Designs: Use them for showcasing how the final product should look, including the positioning and style of the engravings. It’s great for planning and visual approval but not for the machining itself.
      Best Practice for CNC Machining:

      Font Selection: Opt for the simplest possible design, often just a single-stroke line. This ensures clarity, ease of machining, and minimizes complications.
      Machining Approach: Perform the engraving as a separate step from the primary machining process. This allows for adjustments and ensures precision without compromising the part’s integrity.
      By focusing on these principles, you’ll achieve optimal results in your CNC projects. If there’s anything more you’d like to dive into or clarify, feel free to reach out!

      Thanks, Attila

      0
      Reply
      • T
        Attila Szucs

        Thank you, that’s helpful! I have a couple of follow-up questions:

        • In terms of the font – would Sans Serif be a good choice?
        • Should I include the engraving in a technical drawing?
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        Reply
CNC machining design with engraved letters – help needed
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