Have you heard of 5-axis technology? It is a type of machining utilized by professional CNC machinists. They use CAM software and complex fixtures to manufacture precise, clean products for you and your company.
Many machine shops are upgrading their machining process by acquiring 5-axis CNC machines. That is because 5-axis capabilities takes a 3-axis machine to the next level, producing great products in a short time.
The following answers all your questions about 5 axis of machining!
What is 5-Axis Machining?
5-Axis machining uses the complex parts of a CNC machine to move cutting equipment across five different axes simultaneously.
The main advantage of 5-axis CNC milling machines is using five rotational axes and a rotary table. They produce deeper parts and complex shapes with what is being manufactured.
5-Axis CNC machining is also popular because it can produce intricate parts in a shortened production time than it would on other machines. This machine can shorten the cycle time from the start of the process to its completion. Shorter lead times can improve your manufacturing process by producing parts in more efficient ways.
The 5-Axis Machine
Simultaneous 5-Axis milling machines use is a specific mode of CNC machining. It utilizes a 3-axis CNC machine tool, with an X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis that are stabilized in a horizontal machining center fixed position.
Then, to take 3-axis machining to the more advanced level, additional axes are added to the linear axes called rotary axes. The rotary axes, called the fourth and fifth axes, move in different directions on a swivel head. They can move in a vertical movement to meet any technical needs of various parts.
Benefits of Using a 5-Axis Machine
There are several benefits of 5-axis machining. They include:
- Maintaining optimal cutting
- Shorten production time
- Improved accuracy
- High production efficiency
- Quality surface finish
- Production of complex shapes
- No competition
Main Forms of 5-Axis Machines
There are five main forms of the 5-axis machine. They include:
- Double Swivel Head Form: two rotation coordinates directly control the cutter’s axis direction
- Droop Swivel Head Form: two coordinate axes are located at the top of the cutter, but the rotation axis is not perpendicular
- Double Swivel Table Form: two rotation coordinates directly control the space rotation
- Droop Table: two axes are on the table, but the rotation axis is not perpendicular
- Swing One Rotate Form: two rotation coordinates one axis on the cutter and one on the table type of 5-Axis CNC Machines
Main 5-Axis Machine Configurations
There are three different machine configurations of 5-Axis CNC Machines. Having several setups versus a single setup allows for complex components to be produced.
Head/Head
The rotary axes on this particular CNC machine are located in the head. The 5-axis apex sits atop a platform that moves through a fixed table that holds the workpiece in place. The 5-axis apex can move around the workpiece to produce the part.
Table/Head
The set-up of this machine includes one of the rotary axes situated in the rotary table and the other in the head. The revolving axis, which is located i the head, has a restricted range. The rotary axis, in the table of the machine, is not limited.
Table/Table
In this configuration, the rotary axes are all located within the table. They have restricted scope in the revolving axis.
CNC Machining Services
Avanti Engineering specializes in high volume machining, from 1,000 parts to over 1,000,000! We are the #1 Screw Machine Products Manufacturer in the U.S. with a wide range of machining capabilities. Contact Us today to learn more.
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