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CNC Routing ACM — Dibond panels, routed shapes & folding prep

ACM (aluminium composite, branded as Dibond and similar) is the workhorse signage panel — light, flat, weatherable, and clean to route.

What this is

ACM is what most exterior signage panels are made of in Australia. Two thin aluminium skins bonded to a PE sign-grade or FR/A2 fire-rated core — we stock both — with a painted-on finish in a stocked range of colours. It's rigid, weatherable, doesn't warp like single-skin metal, and the price-to-finish ratio is hard to beat.

We route ACM for signage shops, shop-fitters and fabricators doing illuminated and non-illuminated signs, cladding details, way-finding panels and architectural detail work. For regulated cladding applications, specify the FR/A2 fire-rated core. Plain rectangular cuts come off fast; routed shapes — logos, lettering, custom outlines — take longer but still hold a clean machined edge.

The big-ticket capability with ACM is V-grooving, which is a separate page on its own. By routing a V-groove on the back face of the panel we leave a thin painted skin on the front, which then folds cleanly to give a finished three-dimensional return — the basis of folded sign cans, fascias and architectural reveals. For that work, see the V-groove ACM Folding page.

We stock ACM in common signage colours by request and source brand-specific or speciality finishes on demand. Confirm colour, gauge, core grade and quantity on the quote request and we'll supply the panel and work from your file.

When to use

  • Exterior signage panels (illuminated and non-illuminated)
  • Architectural cladding details and feature panels
  • Way-finding signage and large-format directional work
  • Routed logo and lettering panels for storefronts
  • Front skins of folded sign cans (paired with V-grooving)

When not to use

  • Heavy-load structural applications — ACM is a skin, not a structural plate
  • Anything where the painted surface will be ground or sanded away
  • High-detail intricate lettering with very small interior radius (use a different process)
Standard capabilityCNC Routing ACM
Process
CNC routing
Machines
Avid CNC · Multicam SR3012V
Material
ACM / Aluminium Composite Panel
Stocked thicknesses
3–6 mm
Max sheet size
3000 × 1220 mm
Max cut thickness
50 mm
Standard cut tolerance
±0.2 mm

Job-specific details — yield, edge finish and lead time — are confirmed when we quote your file.

Cutting on the Gold Coast? ACM CNC routing — Gold Coast →

Browse the confirmed material list →

FAQ

Do you supply the ACM?
Yes — we supply the panel. We hold common signage colours in standard gauges and source brand-specific colours, speciality finishes (anodised, brushed, mirror) or non-stock sizes on demand. Flag what you need in the quote and we'll price it in.
How does ACM compare to single-skin aluminium?
ACM is lighter, doesn't warp, holds paint better and is cheaper for large flat panels. Single-skin aluminium is the right choice when you need structural strength or are folding/welding the part. ACM folds via V-groove; aluminium folds via brake.
What file types can I send?
DXF is the cleanest — that's a single-line vector format the cutter reads directly. AI, SVG, PDF, EPS and DWG all work too. If you've only got a JPG or a sketch on paper, send it anyway and we'll tidy it for you (small file-prep charge applies).
How should I prepare a DXF?
Outlines only, no fills. One closed path per cut. Different operations (cut, engrave, drill) on different layers so we know what gets which tool. Convert text to outlines before exporting so we don't have to chase the same font. If anything's ambiguous, write it in the file name or add a note in the quote request.
How quick is a quote?
Most quote requests come back within 1 business day, Mon-Fri. Simple trade jobs are usually faster during business hours. Complex jobs, supplied-material jobs or anything unusual may take longer — we'll tell you up front if so.
Can I pick up or do you deliver?
Both. Pickup is from Helensvale by appointment — we'll send the address when your job is ready. Local delivery covers the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Logan and Tweed Heads, quoted per job. Freight elsewhere in Australia on request.

Ready to quote cnc routing acm?

Quote back, usually within 1 business day. No card needed.

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