Advantages of CNC machining
Compared to traditional manual machining, CNC machining is significantly faster. The finished product has high dimensional accuracy and low error as long as the computer code is correct and meets design specifications.
CNC manufacturing is an excellent method for rapid prototyping. Although it can also be used for end-use products and components, it is typically only economical for short-term production in small quantities.
Multi-axis CNC machining
CNC milling is a process where material is removed using rotating tools. The part may remain stationary while the tool moves over it, or it may be positioned at a predetermined angle within the machine tool. The more axes of motion a machine has, the more complex the forming process and the faster the speed.
In 4-axis CNC milling, a fourth axis is added to the motion of the cutting tool, allowing rotation about the X-axis. This results in four axes of motion: the X-axis, the Y-axis, the Z-axis, and the A (rotation around the X axis).
Many 4-axis CNC machines also allow the part to rotate, known as the B axis, allowing the machine to function as both a mill and a lathe.
Features of four-axis linkage machining
4-axis definition: A 4-axis machine tool has at least four coordinates, which include three linear coordinates and one rotational coordinate.
4-Axis Machining Features:
(1) It is used when a 3-axis machine tool cannot effectively process a workpiece or when the workpiece needs to be clamped for a long period of time.
(2) Increases the precision, quality and efficiency of free-form surface processing.
Advantages of 4-axis machining:
(1) Enhanced tooling capabilities;
(2) Shorter fixing times through advanced processing technology;
(3) No need for tweezers;
(4) Better surface quality;
(5) Extended tool life;
(6) Simplified production processes;
(7) Significant increases in processing and production efficiency.
5- shaft machining:
Above the four axes is another axis of rotation, typically a full 360 degree rotation in the vertical plane.
The 5-axis system allows complete processing and clamping in a single setup, reducing clamping costs and minimizing the risk of surface scratches.
It is ideal for processing holes and multifaceted surfaces, as well as parts with high precision requirements, especially in mold machining.
During movement along the entire path, the tool direction can be optimized and the tool can move linearly, allowing ideal cutting conditions to be maintained throughout the process.
What is the meaning of 4 and 5 axis linkages in a machining center?
4-axis and 5-axis linkage refers to the number of axes controlled in the control system of machining centers, CNC milling machines or engraving machines.
A 4-axis articulation system requires four controllable axes that can be controlled simultaneously through interpolation movement. Motion speed is the combined speed of the four axes, not the individual motion control of each axis. This results in simultaneous movement from one point in space to another point across four axes. The movement speed of each axis is calculated internally through the controller's motion interpolation algorithm.
In a 4-axis machining center, the axes are X, Y, Z and A (rotating around the X axis), B (rotating around the Y axis) or C (rotating around the Z axis). The 4 axes can move independently or together with other axes. However, some 4-axis machine tools can only move independently and only serve as indexing spindles, which means they rotate at a certain angle and then stop and lock the spindle, not participating in cutting.
Similarly, a 4-axis articulated machine tool can have more than four axes, but the maximum number of linked axes is still four. The same applies to machine tools with 5-axis articulation, which are more complex than 4-axis and 3-axis articulation. Currently, some CNC systems in China claim to have five axes, but some of them are false. A true 5-axis linkage system features RTCP (Real-Time Compensation of Position) function.
