Three-axis, four-axis, and five-axis CNC machining are frequently heard terms in our industry, sounding quite sophisticated, but some users may not be able to explain exactly what they are.
It’s necessary to understand the general characteristics of these types of CNC machining. CNC milling machines are classified by the number of axes they operate on. These movements determine the features of the parts that can be manufactured and also affect production efficiency and accuracy. Generally, the more degrees of freedom available, the more complex the geometric shapes that can be produced. So, what are the differences between three-axis, four-axis, and five-axis machining? What are their respective advantages? What products are they suitable for processing?
I. Three-axis CNC machining generally refers to three axes of linear motion in different directions, such as up and down, left and right, and front and back. Three-axis machining can only process one surface at a time, making it suitable for processing disc-shaped parts. This is a limitation for many parts that require holes or grooves to be machined on multiple surfaces.
II. Four-axis CNC machining adds a rotating axis to the three axes, usually a 360° rotation in the horizontal plane, but not at high speed. It is suitable for processing box-shaped parts. Most four-axis CNC machines also allow the workpiece to rotate, which is called the B-axis. This allows the machine to act as both a milling machine and a lathe. If you need to drill holes on the side of a part or on the curved surface of a cylinder, four-axis CNC machining is the best choice. It greatly speeds up the machining process and provides high machining accuracy.
III. Five-axis CNC machining adds another rotating axis to the four axes, usually a 360° rotation in the vertical plane. Five-axis machining allows for comprehensive processing, enabling single-setup machining, reducing setup costs, and minimizing product scratches and damage.
