5-Axis Machining Configuration

The 3-axis x, y and Z work and are calibrated as a 3-axis CNC machine tool. The movement of the other two axes working in 5-axis machining is always controlled by the CNC program of the machine.

There are basically two types of 5-axis CNC machining:

Trunnion type

During the operation of trunnion type 5-axis machine tool, axis a rotates around axis X and axis C rotates around axis Z. The rotating shaft is represented by the movement of the workbench. This type is more suitable for large workload because there is no need to compensate for the space occupied by the rotating handle.

Rotary type

Rotary 5-axis machine, b-axis rotates around Y-axis and c-axis rotates around z-axis. The difference is that during the cutting process, the workbench is always horizontal, which means that it can support heavier parts. The axis of rotation is represented by the rotating cutting arm.

What is the cost of 5-axis CNC machining?

The cost depends on the project at hand and the number of parts being produced. In addition to the higher cost of purchasing a 5-axis machine tool, 5-axis CNC machining requires a more significant setting level before starting to produce a component. In the pre production process, higher initial setup costs may reduce production or one-time costs higher than the equivalent components produced on a 3-axis machine.

This is understandable because the essence of 5-axis machine tools is more complex and dynamic with fewer axes than other types of CNC machine tools. 5-axis milling machines are also more time efficient because they can calibrate finished parts without any intervention. Usually, it takes only one time to complete the operation, so it can greatly reduce the downtime. It reduces the requirements for fixtures, which is mainly conducive to more organic and complex parts.

Why are there few fixtures for 5-axis CNC machining?

Range of motion that the cutting head can reach: the additional rotation axis means that these machines can reach five sides of a part. For example, if a geometrically complex part needs to be used in aerospace, a 5-axis CNC machine tool will be the most capable machine to achieve this goal. This is due to its ability to reach complex angles and cutting areas, such as composite curves.

Advantages of 5-axis CNC machining, high quality finish

Due to the advanced functions of 5-axis cutting tools, higher quality finish can be achieved, because the cutting tools can be shorter on 5-axis CNC machine tools. This reduces the vibration of the tool, thus reducing the chance of chatter marks and ensuring the surface finish of the final part. The need for time-consuming and expensive manual processing can be almost completely eliminated, because the 5-axis machine can closely follow the geometric contour that is traditionally difficult to process.

You can make more complex shapes

5-axis CNC machining can produce very complex geometry. For example, in the past, machining castings and parts with many different characteristics required a lot of assembly to process and complete the required shape. However, in most cases, only one fixture and 5-axis machining can complete the precise requirements of a workpiece.

For more information about 5-axis CNC machining and how to benefit your business, please contact us. With years of expertise, we will give you a detailed and concise quotation about your needs within 24 hours.