How to Cut Aluminum Composite Material on a Desktop CNC

How to Cut Aluminum Composite Material on a Desktop CNC Aluminum Composite Material (ACM, Dibond) is a sandwich of two thin aluminum sheets around a plastic core. It machines cleanly on the Wolfpawn and is ideal for signs and panels. What Makes ACM Good for Desktop CNC Total thickness typically 3mm (0.3mm aluminum + 2.4mm PE core + 0.3mm aluminum) The PE core absorbs vibration — much more forgiving than solid aluminum Can cut full depth in one or two passes Clean, professional finish Recommended Settings Hold-Down ACM is thin and can flex: Double-sided tape across entire back surface Screws through corners for larger pieces Always check corners are fully seated before cutting Cut Quality Tips Conventional milling for profile cuts — less tendency to peel the face Keep protective film on during cutting Air blast or vacuum chips — aluminum chips dull bits quickly when recut Tabs: 4mm wide × 0.5mm high (very thin since material is thin) Drilling/Screw Holes For mounting holes in ACM panels: Step drill for clean holes — standard twist drills tear the face Or CNC-drill with a 2-flute end mill at 1000 RPM, 200 mm/min plunge Finishing Remove protective film after all cutting Clean with IPA Brush aluminum skins don't need finishing Can paint with rattle can adhesion promoter + automotive paint for color changes

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