The CNC 3040 is almost identical in specs to the CNC 3018. It’s different, however, in a few important ways:

• Upgradeable spindle: Since the CNC 3040 has a larger frame, it allows for the spindle holder to be exchanged. Exchanging the spindle holder out for a larger one means you can get a stronger spindle that can cut through harder materials or softer materials easier.
• Control box: Unlike many other desktop machines that have connected power supplies, the CNC 3040’s power supply and control board are separate. This allows for a reliable emergency shut off, easy settings adjustments, and uploading code.
• Larger build area: Since it’s got a larger build area, you can produce larger projects or work on bigger pieces of material easier.
• Vertical table slots: Several smaller CNC routers will have horizontal work holding slots. The vertical table slots run along the long end of the machine, allowing work to be held down anywhere.
• Z probe: With the Z probe included in several buying options, there’s no need for manual zeroing now. With smaller CNC machines, in order to start cutting, you need to position the bit in relation to the workpiece. Using the Z probe takes some of the difficulty out of the equation.
• Easy upgrades: Upgrading the spindle is as easy as swapping out the holder. A vacuum boot for dust collection and a drip lubrication system are two other upgrades you might consider. Both keep the machine from burning up or getting stuck.

Much of the design of the CNC 3040 is the same as smaller machines. The major differences are the size and capabilities of the components that allow for more professional work to be done.

Compared to smaller CNC machines, the CNC 3040 can outstrip them all. As far as quality goes, it’s able to cut everything from wax to metal and still have exquisite precision. But with a stronger machine that can cut metal, there’s plenty of research that needs to be done: Consider learning about the different bits, speed rates, and sometimes even lubricants that metals require in order to get the best results.

If you’ve worked with beginner or professional equipment before, the CNC 3040 is a great match for you. It’s easy enough to use and a great way to get started with tougher materials. As for veteran CNC workers, this machine has a low footprint yet is powerful enough to compete with bigger machines. Here are some things to focus on with this new machine:

• Spindle: The CNC 3040 comes premade with the ability to upgrade the spindle. Using a different size spindle holder means you can use just about any type of spindle you want! As such, you can use weaker and lower RPM (rotations per minute) spindles for wood and softer materials, or use a strong higher RPM spindle for metals.
• Endstops: Many beginner CNC machines don’t come with endstops, but thankfully most CNC 3040s do! Having endstops are great because it makes zeroing your machine a breeze.
• Collets: With the option to upgrade your spindle, this also allows you to use a wider spectrum of collets. Collets with different internal diameters allow for differently-sized bits to be used. A broader selection of tools always helps!
• End mills: There are lots of endmills out there, and finding the right one is the key to success. Different types of end mills are required for different materials and jobs, so do your research.
• Drill bits: Drill bits come in different sizes and materials. Occasionally, you may need to work your way up to drilling larger holes by starting out with pilot holes.
• Chamfer bits: Chamfer bits are great for cutting the edges or the outside of a material.
• Coolant: Adding a coolant spray is almost mandatory when machining hard materials like metal. Coolant helps keep the bit and material from overheating and sometimes doubles as a lubricant.

Because of the higher quality and capabilities of the spindle, frame, and occasionally the control board, 3040s obviously have a better performance.

The CNC 3040 is a tier higher than most similar CNC machines when looking at power, precision, and even ease of use. The larger work area and ability to easily upgrade the spindle is an obvious advantage. This provides the power and space to work on bigger and more difficult projects.

CNC 3040s are a bit more expensive than their smaller counterparts, but their size isn’t the only thing driving the price differential. Yes, the CNC 3040 is almost twice the size of other machines designed like it, but it’s really the spindle power that sets it apart. Having a strong and fast spindle means you can cut, chamfer, face, or plane almost any material without the fear of burning out the machine.

Being able to work on both soft and hard materials is great for hobbyists and pros alike. A hobbyist will appreciate being able to experiment with a diverse set of materials with an affordable machine. Pros, on the other hand, will have a machine that can handle tough jobs without monopolizing a whole industrial machine. Both will love that the CNC 3040 doesn’t take up much more space than a small microwave!

Taking everything into account, the CNC 3040 is best utilized for small- to medium-sized jobs that involve almost any material that’s no harder than steel.

Mechanical Specifications

• Motor: 500 W motor, 8,000 RPM
• Upgradeable: Yes (laser module or custom spindle)
• Machine dimensions: 610 x 450 x 390 mm (24.0″ x 17.7″ x 15.4″)
• Frame: Extruded aluminum
• Worktable: Extruded aluminum
• Linear system: Extruded aluminum linear rails with three chrome plate hard shafts
• Motion: Two-phase stepper motors
• Z probe: Yes
• Limit switches: Yes

Software

• Programs: GRBL v1.1 / GRBLControl (Candle)
• Interface compatibility: Windows and MacOS (Linux with use of a proxy)

Other

• Manufacturer: Vevor
• Connectivity: USB
• Onboard controls: Yes
• Emergency shut off: Yes

True CNC 3040 Machines

Vevor 3040

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and 

JFT CNC 3040

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and 

CNC 4030 Machine

This option is an inverted machine, meaning it has horizontal rails instead of vertical ones, but it’s pretty much the same machine.

SainSmart Genmitsu ProverXL 4030

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and 

3040 Extension for CNC 3018 Machines

If you already have a 3018, this extension will increase its work area.

Genmitsu 3040 Y-Axis Extension

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and