Every device in the world is made up of parts - some of which are smaller or simpler than others. Making each part individually is not only time-consuming, but also inefficient, because no matter how hard they try, humans cannot replicate the precision of a machine.
5-axis CNC mills do exactly that - at least when we're talking about cnc. While this is not a completely new invention, as 3-axis milling machines already exist, it does improve the entire manufacturing process, making it less time-consuming and allowing manufacturers to produce more parts in the same amount of time.
In this article, we will discuss the following aspects of 5-axis CNC milling machines :
1. What is it,
2. Where does the "axis" part come from,
3. What are the possible configurations,
4. The most common use,
5. Why 5-axis CNC Machining has become so popular today
1. 5-axis machining - what is it
Five-axis machining, which means a work-piece can be automatically manipulated from five sides at the same time, is a term in the machinery industry. The five axes are composed of three linear axes and two rotary axes, which work together to meet the needs of the production part.
Although most CNC milling machines in use today are 3-axis, 5-axis CNC milling is becoming more and more popular. In particular, 5-axis CNC milling machines are popular in the production process, because the equipment used for 5-axis CNC machining does not need to change the placement of the work-piece many times throughout the process, reducing the number of down-times, ensuring the precision of the product, while saving time.
5-axis CNC machining is now commonly used to produce complex parts that require the highest precision, such as those used in the medical, aerospace, military, and oil and gas industries.
5-axis - where does it come from
It all comes down to French philosopher and mathematician Rene Descartes. This experience is very similar to Newton's discovery of gravity. One day Descartes was lying in bed when he noticed a fly. Looking at it, he realized that he could describe its position in the room with three numbers, represented by the variables X, Y, and Z-what we now call a Cartesian coordinate system.
By now, you may have only seen where the other two came from. Yes, in addition to describing the position of the fly in space, it is also possible to describe its orientation. So the flies rolling around X would be the fourth axis, and the fifth axis would be the flies spinning around Y. Some people also think there is a sixth axis, which rotates around the Z axis.
5 axes - possible configurations
The configuration you choose for your 5-axis CNC mill determines which of the three rotary axes will be used. There are two main configurations - trunnion machines and rotary rotary machines.
Trunnion 5-axis CNC mills use the A-axis to rotate around the X-axis and the C-axis to rotate around the Z-axis, while rotary 5-axis CNC mills use the B-axis to rotate around the Y-axis and the C-axis to rotate around the Z-axis.
The main difference between the two is the way the rotary axis is expressed - in the trunnion type, it happens through the movement of the table, while in the rotary rotary type of a 5-axis CNC mill, it's through the rotation of the spindle. Both have their advantages, so which one to use depends largely on what needs to be done.
5-axis CNC machining – the benefits
More than half of the parts produced with CNC require five sides to be machined, which is why more and more manufacturers are deciding to purchase five-axis machines.
In addition, 5-axis CNC machining offers many advantages over 3-axis machining, such as:
Shorter production times - As we already mentioned, with 5-axis CNC machining you don't have to change the position of the workpiece like the machine itself. It also finds the best angle to cut the workpiece into the desired shape. All of this means that the same part can be produced in less time.
Greater precision - 5-axis CNC machines are more precise than 3-axis machines due to their flexibility of motion, which is why they can produce not only smoother parts, but also parts that are too complex for a 3-axis machine.
Shorter tools - Because the 5-axis is so flexible, there is no need for longer tools that can cause vibrations and affect surface finish. Among other things, it allows the machine to use higher speeds without undue stress.
Broader business scope – 5-axis CNC machining can be used to produce many parts that 3-axis machining simply won`t fit.
While there are more benefits to machining with 5-axis CNC, these are the most important.
5-Axis CNC Machining - Common Uses
5-axis CNC machining can be used to produce parts used in many different industries because of their efficiency and ability to produce complex shapes. Here are some examples of industries that most commonly utilize this technology:
Aerospace - This industry requires a very sophisticated machine because the shapes are so complex and unique.
Medical – 5-axis CNC machining can help medical device manufacturers produce devices, implants, and other devices that require ultra-precision manufacturing to meet increasingly stringent healthcare standards.
Military - Some possible applications include submarine parts, high performance engine parts, turbine and compressor blades, smart weapons, sensors, stealth applications, and in some cases, nuclear weapons.
Energy Equipment - The production of energy equipment parts often requires the use of materials that are difficult to machine. With 5-axis CNC machining, you can make the entire process easier and more efficient.
A 5-axis CNC milling machine is an extremely precise tool that benefits many industries when producing essential equipment for medical, aerospace, military, and more. These specific areas require attention to detail when manufacturing parts, as they often have to meet strict standards in order to be used, and 5-axis CNC machines came into being.
There are many reasons why 5-axis CNC machining is popular today - it allows manufacturers to produce the same number of parts in the shortest amount of time without sacrificing the quality of the finished product.
At China Machining, we understand that part manufacturing requires extreme care and precision, which is why we offer our customers three different types of CNC milling machines - 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis.
If you have any questions or projects that we need to work on, please feel free to contact us at our phone number or email address.
