Hytek Tools Super CNC FAQ
Why should I buy from Hytek?
We were at one time just like you, trying to make a living with a CNC table. We have over 15 years experience producing products with this machinery. We have the experience to put you in a machine that will do what you need it to do. Hytek are industrial grade, solid welded machines. Machines weigh 4000+ lbs depending on the length. Hytek Tools CNC and laser cutters will last the life of your business with very little maintenance. The return on investment (ROI) is off the charts. You will not be disappointed, we will stop at nothing to over deliver on your expectations. Call, email, schedule demos, check in at the forum, join the Hytek family, we've been waiting for you. Need new parts? We can source them and have delivery in a matter of just a few days. In the unlikely event that a control board fails, or a spindle, whatever it might be, a new part is 1-5 days away. People ask all the time and we say in order to really damage the machine, you might need a wrecking ball. These things are heavy duty tanks and are built to last. The Y car gantry alone weighs nearly 600 lbs.
Can I see one of your machines in my area?
Please make appointments for demos, we are located in central Minnesota. If you would like to come see one of our machines, you would have to make an appointment with Melissa: mj@hytektools.com.
Do you offer custom made machines?
Yes, please email: jason@hytektools.com, while we don't typically like to complicate things. It can't hurt to ask.
What about training?
In the past, we offered on-site training and have now streamlined the process of operation so that most things can be learned remotely through videos and other documentation.
Is training available if I didn't buy a Hytek Machine?
As most of our training videos are free to the public, we would not discourage anyone from having a look at how we create things on our machines!
Are Hytek machines for hobby, or production?
Hytek machines are industrial grade machines, meaning they can be used for large production, but they could also be used as a hobbyist tool. They are very accurate and precise, no matter if you want to cut one part, or a thousand parts. If you are a hobbyist, you'll be ready for that big job that comes along with a Hytek CNC. Hytek does tend to focus on sign making because that is our area of expertise, but our tools work great for many woodworking and other production trades.
Don't you have to spend $100,000 to get a quality machine?
No! Like most large purchases, a lot of times you are paying for brand name and recognition. Just because a machine is priced much higher, does not necessarily mean that it's better.
Where are Hytek tools made?
Hytek brand machinery is manufactured in both the USA and Asia. Though we source parts from all over the world, we are a company based in the United States. We have partnered with who we believe to be the very best companies for parts in Japan, Italy, China, and Germany. They take pride in their work with integrity, honesty, and quality. We use only the best components available to our market.
Do I need an Auto Tool Changer (ATC)?
An auto tool changer CNC router is a nice option to have, but not a requirement for a lot of users. The price difference is substantial, so it should be well thought out on whether it is a necessity. Some things to consider when deciding if an ATC machine is right for you; to change a tool without a tool changer, it takes on average 60 seconds of your time. If you have 3 or more tool changes within a short amount of time, then an ATC machine may be a requirement. If you are requiring high run production with tool changes, ATC would be a good choice.
Can I upgrade a standard CNC machine to an ATC?
There is no simple “add on” to turn a standard/non ATC machine into an ATC machine. ATC machines have completely different electrical components, motors, drivers and spindles. If you know you are going to need an ATC router, it is best to start with one if it is financially possible. If you are unable to start with an ATC, you can buy a standard CNC router then eventually purchase an ATC down the road.
What industry type use Hytek CNC Routers?
- Sign Shops
- Cabinetry
- Prototyping
- Education
- Fabricating
- Reproduction
- Furniture Making
- 3D Carving
- Engraving
- Etching
- Artwork
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Architecture
- Developers
- Historic Restoration
- Museums
- Exhibits
- Displays
- Fixtures
- Trade Shows
- Theater
- Movie/TV Set Decor
- Prop Manufacturing
- Machining
- Tooling
- Packaging
- Wood Carving
- Makerspace/Community Workshop
- Mold Making
- Boatbuilding
- Visual Marketing
- POP/Point of Purchase
- Stamp making
- Jewelry Manufacturing
- Aerospace
- Theme Environments
- Inlaying
- Sports Equipment Fabrication
- Guitar/Instrument Making
- Woodworking
- Millwork
- Door Manufacturing
- Designing
- Home Furnishing
- Interior/Exterior Decor
- Toy/Game/Puzzle Manufacturing
- Sculpture Production
- Automotive Parts
- Artifact Replication
- Boat Parts
- Model Making
- Medical Device/Testing Production
- Trophy Production
- Camper Manufacturing
- Wedding Decor
What materials can I cut?
Our CNC Routers can cut most materials as long as you are using the proper tools/bits and have your feed rates and speeds set correctly. Here are some of the materials that can be cut, engraved and carved with our CNC routers-
- Acrylic
- Aluminum
- Cardboard
- Colorcore
- Composites
- Corafoam
- Cork
- Dibond
- Duna
- EPS Foam
- Fabric
- Fiberglass
- Foam
- Foamcore
- Gatorboard
- Gator Foam
- Granite
- HDU
- High Density Urethane
- Ice
- LDF
- Leather
- Marble
- MDF
- MDO
- Metals
- Paper
- Plastics
- Plywood
- Precision Board
- PVC
- Rubber
- Seadek
- Sign Foam
- Sintra
- Stone
- Styrofoam
- Ultraboard
- Vinyl
- Wax
- Wood- Any type
- And More….
Air or water cooled spindle, what is the difference?
Cost
Air cooled spindles are more expensive upfront for the spindle itself. The cost of the actual water cooled spindle itself is cheaper, but you will also need a water chiller, and have the water lines installed on the machine causing it to be more expensive. Also cost of time, maintenance, replacement parts if not well maintained could be greater in the long run for a water cooled spindleNoise
Water cooled spindles are slightly quieter, but the noise created by cutting material will be the same with both spindles and frequently the cutting noise and the noise from a dust collector or vacuum table is by far louder than either spindle itself would be. So any noise from either spindle is irrelevant as you will not hear them over other sounds created by machining.
Maintenance
Water cooled has to have clean distilled water at all times. This water needs to be filled, checked on and replaced periodically. If your machine is not in a temperature controlled environment and has a chance for being below freezing temperatures you will run the chance of ruining your spindle. Air cooled spindles do not require any maintenance.
Accuracy
There is no noticeable difference.
Power requirements
Both have the same power requirements.
Continual work time
Water cooled spindles run continuously without any limits no matter the material. Water cooled is recommended if you need to run you machine 24 hours a day. Air cooled can cut any material for extended periods, but not recommended for continuous, around the clock use with a hard material as it would need some down time to cool off.
Bits/Tools
Both air and water cooled spindles can use a large variety of bits as long as you have the corresponding collet (i.e. If a bit has a ¼” shank then you would need a ¼” collet or an adaptor). You can use any CNC bit, most router bits (usually if they do not have a bearing then they could be used) or rotary tool (Dremel, Rotozip, etc.) with either an air cooled or water cooled spindle. The material you are cutting, your feed rates and speeds will all factor into how a bit/tool will work for you.
What spindle options are offered by Hytek Tools?
Our machines come with a 6hp air cooled HQD spindle (unless otherwise stated in listing), which is good for most manufacturing. You can request a different spindle size, or water cooled version for an additional cost.
What bits/ cutting tools can I use with Hytek CNC routers?
A large variety of bits/tools can be used in a CNC router as long as you have the corresponding collet (i.e. If a bit has a ¼” shank then you would need a ¼” collet or an adaptor). You can use any CNC bit, most router bits (usually if they do not have a bearing then they could be used) or rotary tool bits (Dremel, Rotozip, etc.). The material you are cutting, your feed rates and speeds and condition of your bit will all factor into how a bit/tool will work for you. If a tool is dull or damaged your cut results can be compromised.
What software is needed to run Hytek CNC machines?
To run our CNC routers you will need two separate softwares, one to control the machine/run files- CAD software and one for designing/creating files- CAM software.
The CAM software that controls our standard machine is NK105-G2 and it is included with your machine. NK105 is a popular and easy to navigate software. On our machines this software is on a handheld controller, no computer is needed to run NK105.
The CAM software that controls your ATC router machine is Syntec control software, it's known as one of the best in it's class.
The CAD software needed to design and create files is not included with the purchase of your machine, but we do offer Vectric brand software for an additional cost. You could use software you already have or purchase any design software you prefer. You will need a computer for your design software. You do not need to be near your CNC router to work with this software as the files are transferred with a usb stick. So you could do all the design work anywhere, you are not stuck by the router.
Is a computer needed to run a Hytek CNC router?
No, you do not need a computer to run our CNC routers. Our routers have a handheld controller with the CAM software/NK105, no computer needed. If one is needed, it will be provided and integrated in the machine. They are meant to drive the machine and not design. However, you will need a computer to run the CAD/design software, but that computer does not need to be connected to your router or even in the same room. Files will be transferred with a usb stick from your computer to the CNC router.
What is cut depth, travel height, etc?
Hytek Routers come standard with 12" Z height. That is the height from the table top to the bottom of the gantry, not to be confused with the cut depth or travel height. The height from the table bed to the bottom of the collet nut is 11.24” at its highest. The cut depth and travel height may vary depending on a few factors. Adding a spoilboard to the table, your tool/bit length and material height will all have an affect on space you have to work with.
Can I cut metal with a CNC router?
Yes, you can cut metal with a Hytek CNC router. With the correct tools/bits along with proper feed and speed rates it is possible to cut most metals.
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