Plywood is one of the most versatile wood-based materials used in CNC machining. It combines strength, the aesthetics of natural wood and an affordable price. It is a popular choice among furniture manufacturers, interior designers and structural component makers.
Types of Plywood for CNC Machining
Choosing the right type of plywood has a key influence on milling quality:
Poplar Plywood
Light, relatively inexpensive and easy to machine. Ideal for furniture components, built-ins and projects requiring large formats. Available in thicknesses from 4 to 18 mm.
Birch Plywood
Denser and harder than poplar. Excellent for precise details, architectural models and parts that must hold their dimensions under changing humidity conditions. Standard format 1525×1525 mm.
Marine Plywood (waterproof)
Bonded with phenolic glue, resistant to moisture. Used outdoors or in high-humidity environments.
Milling Parameters
- Spindle speed: 16,000–20,000 RPM
- Feed rate: 3,000–8,000 mm/min (depending on thickness and hardness)
- Depth of cut: 30–50% of cutter diameter
- Cutter: compression bit (up-down cut) to avoid fibre tear-out on both surfaces
The direction of milling matters — climb milling produces a smoother surface on the tool-leading side.
How to Avoid Delamination and Fibre Tear-out
Delamination problems occur when:
- the cutter is dull or unsuitable
- depth of cut is too large
- the plywood has laminated or veneered surfaces
Solutions:
- Use compression bits — they compress fibres instead of tearing them
- Reduce depth of cut for surface layers
- Place an MDF or hard foam spoil board beneath the plywood
Tolerances and Surface Quality
Plywood is a natural material — its thickness can vary by as much as ±0.3 mm across a single sheet. For projects requiring tight fit, always check actual thickness before programming.
Milled edges can be sanded from grit 120 to 240, then lacquered or painted.
Applications of CNC Plywood
- Furniture and interior fit-outs — cabinet fronts, shelves, panels
- Wall decorations — filigree patterns, lettering, artwork
- Models and mock-ups — architectural, technical
- Toys and puzzles — precision die-cut pieces
- Display materials — stands, frames, exhibition fixtures
Plywood is also a popular choice for artistic projects — its natural grain and the variety of finishing options make it an aesthetically rewarding material.
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