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5 axis cnc machine means a machining way. The tool of a machine tool can move along five axes together under the control of a computer numerical control system. This can make all-around, multi – angle machining of a part. It usually has three linear coordinate axes (X, Y, Z) and two rotary coordinate axes (A, B or C).
Advantages of 5 axis CNC
Increased efficiency: 5 axis cnc machine cuts down the number of fixtures and machining processes compared to traditional 3-axis machining. For example, when machining a part with many faces and complex contours, 5 axis cnc machine can finish multiple faces in one setup. But 3-axis machining needs many setups and adjustments, so it saves a lot of time.
Higher yield: Since 5 axis cnc machine only needs one setup, it reduces the need for manual setups. So it has a high degree of automation. When the machine is well-tuned, the yield rate can be 99% or more.
Higher precision: Because of the principle of coordinates moving together, parts can be cut at many angles. For parts with complex shapes and high precision needs, 5-axis is often needed. The tolerance can reach 0.01mm.
Disadvantages of 5 axis cnc
Not suitable for large quantities: This is the biggest drawback of 5 axis cnc machine. Usually, 5 axis cnc machine directly does all the processing of a part. It can only make one product at a time. For a large number of parts, if you use three – axis or four – axis, you can design the layout to process multiple cnc parts at the same time.
Technical challenges are greater: Programming is complex, and machine commissioning is complex. Technicians have to think about more axis motion and tool path planning to avoid the tool hitting the workpiece or fixture. During the machining process, they need to deal with all kinds of emergencies in time, like tool wear, program errors, etc. This requires them to know a lot about CNC machining and be able to operate five – axis machine tools skillfully.
Higher cost: First, buying 5 – axis machine tools is expensive, and the daily equipment maintenance cost is also high. Second, there aren’t enough production staff who know 5 axis cnc machine well. Companies usually have to pay more to get the right production staff, so the labor cost is higher.
Difference between 5 axis cnc and 3+2 axis
The main difference is if it has the RTCP (Rotational Tool Center Point) function. Five – axis means five – linkage, all five axes can move together. But 3 + 2 five-axis might be a five-axis three-linkage. That is, the two rotary axes just do a positioning job. Only three axes can move together for processing. This is what people usually call the 3 + 2 mode of five – axis machine tools. During the machining process, it needs to rely on CAM programming and post – processing to plan the tool path. So its flexibility and efficiency are relatively low.
Overall, five axis CNC machine technology is suitable for processing small – batch, high-precision, and high-complexity parts. It has advantages like a high degree of flexibility and adaptability.
