Factors influencing your factory choice of CNC equipment (Part 2)

Besides the material, the type and the intended use of the CNC machine also play an important role in helping manufacturers choose the right equipment for their production model.

Today, CNC machine models are constantly changing to meet market demand. The new generation CNC machines are mainly divided into 3-axis or 5-axis. 3-axis devices are more commonly used because they are easier to navigate and less expensive than the 5-axis.

3-axis CNC machining works by cutting unnecessary parts out of the material with cutting tools running at high speeds. During the operation, the workpiece remains in the same position while the cutting tool works along the XYZ plane to cut the material. This is great for details that don’t require a lot of depth and small details inside.

This is a less flexible method used with CNC milling and turning techniques. With the 3-axis machine, you can manufacture everyday items in their primary shape without requiring a lot of skills and experience in the profession.

5-axis CNC milling machine produces materials with detailed shapes and more accurately than 3-axis type. Any time you move the part from one jig to another, there is a risk of deviation, either during installation and operation. The error is greater when you have to mill faces with many attachments. When using the matching table, or suitable multi-spindle machine, the 5-axis CNC machine can provide higher precision while the moving angle will be low, the cutter speed is fast and thus the cutting quality is increased. On the other hand, the blades of this machine obtain stronger cuts with high rotational and feed rates, while the accuracy is maintained.

The outstanding advantage of 5-axis CNC machines is to limit the operator’s frequency of operation, while at the same time ensuring that the details are at a different position from the precision machined spindle. However, investment cost is a big issue for manufacturers who are targeting this type of machine.

No matter what type of machine you are going to use in your workshop, adding knowledge about the characteristics of each machine is what managers need to do to be able to make the right decisions.

(To be continued)

Productivity and Quality Office