If you’ve ever heard the terms “vector graphics” and “raster graphics” but have no idea what they mean, or if you’ve always wondered why our hot-wire CNC machines for cutting polystyrene require vector format, then this article is for you.
It may seem like there’s no difference between these two graphic formats, but there are, and they are substantial. Let’s explore the differences between pixels and vectors and why you need to convert the file before inserting it into a hot-wire CNC machine for cutting polystyrene.
Let’s start with pixels
Wikipedia defines pixels as “the smallest conventional unit of a digital image’s surface.” Every screen of every device is made up of thousands or even millions of pixels. If you take a close look, you’ll notice that a pixel is just a tiny colored square. When all the pixels on the screen are filled with different colors, they create the images we see on our devices. They have their own size and resolution, which means that when we enlarge them, they lose detail and appear pixelated.
The most common types of raster files include JPEG, PNG, TIFF, GIF, BMP and PDF.
Vector graphics
Vectors, in comparison, are mathematically “perfect” formats. They are popular in graphic design and engineering because they do not lose quality. Vectors are made of paths and are based on mathematical coordinates, which means no matter how many times you scale the vector, it will never lose quality.
Vector graphics provide the ability to visualize the contours of a design and are useful for specialized companies because they allow them to guide equipment for engraving or cutting. CNC machines for cutting styrofoam, for example, require only vector graphic files to perform a cut.
The most commonly used vector file extensions (or file types) are SVG, PDF, EPS, CDR and AI.
Vector graphics on CNC
CNC machines for cutting polystyrene require maximum precision, which is why there are certain guidelines in place to ensure the user achieves the best possible result.
Files in vector formats are required for our software. You will need to convert a raster file because the machine must recognize the path.
If you want to work with this material for your business, check out our CNC foam Cutting Machines.
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