xiehe model

Guide to 5-axis CNC Machining of Aluminum Alloy Parts

At Xiehe, we provide cutting-edge 5-axis CNC machining for a wide variety of parts in different shapes and sizes. The program is capable of producing parts in a variety of materials such as metal and plastic. CNC machining uses a computer to manage the commands for the different tools. They can be routers, mills or routers. Customers often associate 5-axis machining with terms like high cost, difficult to run and technically complex. However, this blog will demystify some of the complexities associated with 5-axis machining. Here's a closer look at important aspects of 5-axis machining.

What is the definition of five-axis machining?

The process involved using the CNC to move the tool through five different axes simultaneously. It allows for the production of highly complex parts. The first 3 axes are X axis, Y axis and Z axis respectively. They are common in 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machines. However, 5-axis CNC machines add two additional rotary axes to the three common linear axes. They are the A, B and C motion modes that allow complex shapes to be made in a variety of products.

Its use has grown over the years due to its ability to adapt to any industry. Additionally, the entire process takes a short amount of time from start to finish. Therefore, this operation is very common in the aerospace industry taking advantage of these advantages.

Types of five-axis machine tools

Different forms of 5-axis CNC machines exist to enhance different machining programs and reduce production time. These machines come in different forms to meet the needs of the expanding manufacturing industry. It is worth noting that the difference between 5-axis CNC machines is the arrangement of the rotary axes. There are mainly three different types, namely Table/Header, Header/Header and Table/Table.

Table/head five-axis CNC machining

This type of CNC machine setup places the axis of rotation in the table and machine head. The head has a limited range of rotation axes, while the table has an infinite range of rotation axes. However, this configuration limits the number of objects that can be produced since it is located on the axis of rotation. The advantage of a table/head setup over a head/head setup is that it can be continuously rotated apart without worrying about hitting a specific limit.

This type of CNC machine tool setup has the axis of rotation placed only in the machine head. As the 5-axis vertex moves across the table, the table remains stationary while holding the workpiece in place. It allows vertices to move around the workpiece in 5-axis directions. This makes it ideal for the production of large parts. However, the design of the machine limits its rotational axis and tilting motion.

This type of CNC machine setup places all the axes of rotation within the table. Additionally, they have a limited range of motion on the axis of rotation. Tables/desks have a smaller working area than other types of setups.

Advantages of using 5-axis machining

Five-axis CNC machining is known for its high-precision and high-efficiency capabilities. We only need one clamping on the table to complete the workpiece. It makes the impossible possible by easily handling spatial surfaces or unusual shapes. This makes the process suitable for manufacturing products for the military, medical, scientific research and aerospace industries. Below are some of the advantages of 5-axis CNC machining.

Keep the best cutting conditions

3-axis CNC machines exhibit gradual degradation as the tool moves toward the edge or top of the part. In order to maintain optimal cutting conditions, we also need a rotating table. Also, if we were to make an irregular plane, we would turn the table in different directions to achieve this. 5-axis CNC machines allow this to happen.

Reduce processing time

5-axis machines help to save a lot of time compared to other machine types. This is because we only need one setting to get things working. Hence, it will help to speed up the delivery of the final product.

Improve machining accuracy

The process requires only a minimal setup for increased accuracy. This is because additional settings cause more errors. Additionally, the machine solves the problem of repositioning parts at different angles. This greatly improves the tolerances of the machine.

High-quality surface treatment

This configuration allows for a high quality surface finish. It allows for a cutting tool that is closer to the part. Since we have short cutting tools for the last two axes, there is less tool vibration. Also, the centerline speed of the tool does not go to zero to achieve better surface quality.

Limitations of using 5-axis machining

Despite the many advantages of five-axis machining, there are also some setbacks in the manufacturing process. This limits the scope of some items we can make. Some problems are its high cost and the complex and difficult programming required to set it up. However, with our team of highly qualified engineers, we can overcome these limitations.

5-axis CNC machines play an important role in producing highly complex parts for a variety of industries. Contact Xiehe today for a quote on 5-axis CNC machined parts.