Hardwood - Maple
Overview
Hard maple for CNC routing. Very hard, very pale, very consistent. The hardest common domestic hardwood. Produces excellent machined edges.
Properties
Pros
- Very hard and durable
- Fine consistent grain
- Light color for excellent engraving contrast
- Takes finish well
- Food safe
- Strong and stable
Cons
- Harder than cherry/walnut — needs more power
- Dense — slower cut speeds
- Can yellow over time with UV
- Premium price for hard maple
Best For
- Cutting boards
- sports equipment
- precision parts
- high-end signs
- furniture
Avoid For
- Budget projects
- dull-bit situations (burns instantly)
Laser Compatibility
Hard dense wood — requires more power than softwood. CO2: engrave 300mm/s 50W; cut 3mm at 100mm/s 80W. Diode 20W: engrave 250mm/s 100%; cutting 3mm needs 4+ passes. Maple engraves to light tan/cream — high contrast against natural wood. Mask surface to prevent smoke staining on light-coloured maple.