CNC Machining: The Difference Between a 3-Axis CNC Machining Center and a 5-Axis CNC Machining Center?

1. Ability to create more complex shapes

By using two additional axes, the machine tool can approach any different angle of the CNC machined part, which makes it possible to manufacture very complex arcs during a single setup. This advantage is very obvious for undercutting and small drilling.

2. Higher CNC machining efficiency

During 5-axis CNC machining, we can place the tool close to the surface of the CNC machined part, so shorter tools can be used. Using shorter tools, feeds and speeds can be higher and faster to remove excess material CNC machined part shape. As we all know, there are many types of tools, including flat end mills, bull nose end mills, ball end mills, etc. Of these, the flat-bottom cut produced by the flat end mill is the most efficient material removal. In 5-axis CNC machining, we can often use flat end mills, which also lead to higher cutting efficiency.

3. Save the cost of complex fixtures

In the process of three-axis CNC machining, the fixing of CNC machining parts often requires complex fixtures. In addition, many CNC parts machining requires more than one setup, and one setup requires one fixture. There is a cost per fixture, and more fixtures cost more. 5-axis CNC machining has the power to manufacture complex shapes in one setup with a simple fixed fixture. Therefore, it can save a lot of cost from the workholding.

4. Use Fewer Settings

Unlike traditional CNC machining methods, 5-axis CNC machining machines can drive tools to any surface of CNC machined parts, including the underside. This ensures that all cutting jobs can be done in one setup.
 

5. Achieving tighter precision

As mentioned above, 5-axis CNC machining machines can use shorter tools, which generate less vibration during CNC machining. At the same time, it requires only one set-up, which means that the workpiece does not need to be removed during the entire CNC machining process. Therefore, it helps to obtain more precise machining, and the 5-axis CNC machined parts have higher precision.

6. Get a higher quality finish

5-axis CNC machining enables smaller cuts due to its multiple motions, which helps in obtaining contoured geometries and a higher quality finish on the surface.

7. Be more competitive in the market

Since 5-axis CNC machining machines are not cheap, not every CNC machining company can afford them. With 5-axis CNC machining capability, it can help you gain more trust from your customers. So you can run faster than your competitors and be more competitive in the market.

What are the limitations of 5-axis CNC machining?

The 5-axis CNC machining process also has some limitations, we cannot crease any CNC machined parts with this process.

1. High cost of CNC machining

Compared with ordinary three-axis CNC machining machines, the cost of 5-axis CNC machining and milling machines is much higher. In addition, the maintenance cost of the machine is also high. Therefore, the overall CNC machining cost is high.

2. Complex CNC machining programming

5-axis CNC machining movements are more complex than other simple CNC machining machines. In order to run the machining efficiently and correctly, many parameters must be carefully calculated. This would require an experienced programming engineer to complete, which would result in additional high costs.

 3. High requirements for operators

Due to the complexity of 5-axis CNC machining and milling, the requirements for the operator operating the machine will be higher. Typically, experienced operators always earn higher salaries, which add up to the total CNC machining cost.