5-axis CNC milling is a technique that uses equipment with 5-axes. The first two axes, Y and Z, are used for allowing 2-directional movement of the CNC milling table. These movements allow for the positioning of the workpiece relative to the cutting tool on the table. The third axis is usually labeled Z-axis. The Z-axis will enable the lower movement of the cutting tool for better milling operation.
The fourth one is the A-axis, which allows for the rotation of the table so that you do not want to keep repositioning the workpiece on the table. Finally, there is the fifth axis known as the B-axis. This axis allows the Y-axis to rotate as the equipment operates. Other than 5-axis CNC milling, there is also 3-axis, 4-axis, and 6-axis. As the titles suggest, this equipment features 3, 4, and 6 axes, respectively. In this write-up, we look at the benefits of a 5-axis milling operation.
Benefits of 5-axis milling
5-axis milling is the best type of milling operation, compared to 3 and 4-axis milling. The following benefits explain why this is the case;
1. Production of complex parts
This type of CNC milling equipment allows for the production of complex products. This is because the five axes work together, eliminating the need for extra setups. The equipment can achieve this task in one go. This means that you do not have to rewire the product and rerun them.
2. Quick production
Most of the time, when dealing with large or complex parts, you have to conduct more than one CNC milling process. This results in quick production of CNC milled parts. The production process will take time, but setting up the machine for the process also takes some time. With 5-axis CNC mills, you do not have to waste time on reruns and extra setups. Regardless of the complexities of the manufacturing, the process can be completed in a single go.
3. Cost efficiency
It is worth mentioning that the amount of time it takes to complete the manufacturing process usually reflects the amount of money you spend. The longer the machines run to achieve one production goal, means that you are losing time that you would have spent manufacturing other parts. This translates into financial constraints as well. Therefore, since 5-axis CNC mills do not take a lot of time, you also get to save a chunk of money and get a lot of work done in a short time.
4. Increased tool life
5-axis CNC mills also guarantee longer tool life. This happens because they allow for suitable positioning of the part. This means that all possible errors associated with part positioning are eliminated. This results in better product quality, which directly affects its life and durability. In addition to this, the CNC mills also last longer since they do not have to overwork.
Conclusion
Note that all the benefits offered by this type of CNC mills affect their price. This is the reason why 5-axis CNC mills are costlier than their counterparts. The only other type of CNC mill that costs higher is the 6-axis CNC mill.
