It refers to the use of computer-controlled machines (CNC) to cut, shape, and drill FR4 (a flame-retardant glass fiber reinforced epoxy resin laminate) to manufacture precision electronic insulators, PCB supports, and various mechanical parts with excellent strength, electrical properties, and moisture resistance.

First, FR4 is a flame-retardant material composed of epoxy resin and glass fiber cloth. The "FR" in its designation represents flame retardancy, and "4" indicates its rating. It is mainly used as a substrate for printed circuit boards (PCB) and a raw material for various insulating components. It possesses high mechanical strength, stable electrical properties, and good heat resistance, meeting the UL94 V-0 flame retardant standard.

So why use CNC to machine FR4?

1. High precision: FR4 material is prone to delamination if the lamination process is slightly uneven. CNC uses computer programs to control the cutting tools, and the speed and feed rate can be accurate to several decimal places, controlling the machining error within ±0.02mm. This is something that is difficult to achieve consistently using traditional manual methods or ordinary machine tools.

2. High efficiency: CNC can operate automatically and continuously, completing drilling, milling, and cutting in one go. It can also operate 24 hours a day, making it particularly suitable for mass production. For example, when making insulating parts for LED lampshades, drilling can be by milling to create a circle, which is fast and consistent.

3.Versatility: It can be machined into various complex shapes. FR4 is often made into various insulating gaskets and baffles, which may have irregular holes, curved surfaces or thin-walled structures. The multi-axis linkage and programming capabilities of CNC can easily handle these, which is a shortcoming of traditional lathes and milling machines.