Powermatic has recently added two mid-sized CNC machines to its woodworking power tool line: the PM-2X2RK and PM-2X4SPK. Both are three-axis CNC machines, in which the spindle works in the X, Y and Z planes (X = side-to-side, Y= back-and-forth and Z = up-and-down). The Powermatic PM-2X2K provides XYZ travel of 24- x 24- x 6-in. and the Powermatic PM-2X4SPK features XYZ travel of 24- x 48- x 6-in.
The new Powermatic CNC routers are designed to cut wood, sheet goods and composites, plastics, aluminum or other soft metals and foam. They can perform a broad range of woodcutting tasks, including intricate 3D carvings, furniture components, cabinet door panels, moldings, joinery, sign boards, picture frames, engineering prototypes and much more.
A handheld controller is connected to each machine’s digital signal processor box with an 8-ft. cable, which provides convenient oversight of projects from different positions. It’s not necessary to connect a computer to the router. The controller is equipped with a USB port for efficient file transfer. Those files can be designed in many CAM software platforms, including VCarve Desktop, VCarve Pro, Vectric Aspire and others.
These Powermatic machines feature welded steel frames for rigidity and vibration dampening. Their heavy-duty gantry supports are constructed of gravity-cast, aluminum alloy. The enclosed steel stands include storage drawers, as well as independent leveling feet and swivel casters for mobility.
Their sturdy work surfaces consist of an extruded aluminum table featuring integrated T-slots that allow hold-down clamps to be positioned in multiple locations. The PM-2x2RK table measures 39-1/4- x 28-1/2-in. and the PM-2x4SPK table measures 63- x 28-1/2-in. Four hold-down clamps are included with both machines. An MDF spoil board protects the table from damage and can be quickly resurfaced by using a program that is pre-loaded in the controller.
The PM-2X4SPK is pre-wired for 230-volt, single-phase operation. It is equipped with 3 HP variable-speed spindle motor that that operates at 0 to 24,000 RPM. It has an ER20 collet that accepts both 1/4- and 1/2-in. bits. The electro spindle is liquid-cooled, and a radiator and fan assembly dissipates heat.
Powermatic’s 2x2RK is equipped with a universal 3-1/2-in. router mount that accepts several compatible woodworking router motors. It’s pre-wired for 115-volt operation.
Spindle movement on each axis is controlled by high-torque stepper motors mounted above the spindle on the gantry bridge. Precision ball screws with recirculating ball bearings allow rapid movement on each axis, while maintaining precise spindle placement. The rapid feed rate of both CNC routers is 200 inches per minute.
Linear guideways also feature recirculating ball bearings for accurate positioning of the tool bit. Flexible nylon track chains protect cables from rubbing and stress.
A puck is included to quickly and easily re-zero the Z axis using a button on the controller.
Both models can be connected to a dust collection system via a 4-in. port on the included dust shoe, mounted beneath the spindle.
The PM-2x2RK Router (model 1797022K; $5,719.99) weighs 598 lbs. and requires 52- X 45-in. of floor space. The PM- 2X4SPK Router (model 1797024K; $8,499.99) weighs 748 lbs. and has a footprint of 52- X 69-in. Both are covered by Powermatic’s 5-year warranty.
“Our new CNC routers answer the demand by many woodshops and enthusiasts for the wide-ranging applications and precision of these computer-controlled cutting machines,” said Katie Davidson, Powermatic’s Product Manager. “These versatile machines can accurately and efficiently produce quantities of identical items, as readily as intricate one-of-a-kind creations.”
Learn more about Powermatic’s new CNC router line by clicking here.
