One big thing you can do with a CNC router that is hard to do with a laser cutter is pocketing, or anything 3D. We built a bass guitar, rendered out by the CNC in 3D straight from the Solidworks file using Vectric Cut3D, and a two-sided cut. Likewise, v-carved text, embossing, etc., are all benefits of a router.<div>
<br></div><div>Lasers can cut with very low kerf (good for material waste), cut thin or delicate materials, and do fine engraving on metals and plastics.</div><div><br></div><div>-Sam<br><br><div class="gmail_quote">On Mon, Feb 7, 2011 at 8:26 PM, Ron Bean <span dir="ltr"><<a href="mailto:bucketworks@rbean.users.panix.com">bucketworks@rbean.users.panix.com</a>></span> wrote:<br>
<blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="margin:0 0 0 .8ex;border-left:1px #ccc solid;padding-left:1ex;">While we're talking about laser cutters--<br>
what can you do with a laser that you can't do with a CNC router?<br>
<br>
Obviously, the laser is better for thin materials, and the router is<br>
better for thick materials. But there's a lot of overlap there.<br>
<br>
We've been fortunate in our scrounging, and we'll soon have one of each<br>
(both need some work, but we're getting there). Right now the laser<br>
only works at 1/2 power, and it needs some new bearings.<br>
<br>
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