CNC machining has changed the manufacturing industry. Milling machines have existed since the 19th century, and the emergence of CNC technology has greatly improved processing speed and accuracy in the mid-20th century.

Now the CNC machines, that use computers to control the motion of the cutter and/or table, are exceptionally innovative pieces of equipment that allow manufacturers to make complicated CNC prototype products with very low tolerances.

But, with various CNC machining choices on the market, it can be hard to know where to get started. Various parts need different machining processes based on their size, shape, amount and end goal, so selecting the most appropriate CNC procedure is rarely a simple task.

Among the greatest questions for CNC prototype manufacturers is the number of axes supplied by this machine. 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis machines are often used, but what is the actual difference between them? And more to the point, which one should you use for your prototype?

What is the "axis" of a CNC machine said by CNC prototype manufacturers?

The idea is perplexing since, intuitively, it appears that the three axes could insure all probable contours. By using a tool that can move along the X, Y, and Z axes, the machine should be able to cut anywhere on the surface of the workpiece. By manually repositioning the workpiece on the table at a certain interval (creating a new "set"), the machine operator can also allow the cutting tool to enter either side of the piece.

However, while some CNC machines utilize just 3 axes, and though the type of three-axis CNC machining explained above can be adequate for several jobs, there are different axes to be exploited for CNC prototype products.

These additional axes are the result of one or two rotations around the X, Y, and Z axes, taking into account not only the position but also the direction. In fact, these axes can be utilized by rotating a cutting tool or a table that tilts the workpiece.

Why are 4-axis and 5-axis machining helpful for CNC prototype products?

To create CNC prototype products with these extra axes has many advantages. Because the workpiece can be cut from different angles, the four-axis and five-axis machines can complete the part in less time without having to set it multiple times. This has the added advantage of eliminating misalignment - there is a risk every time you have to manually reorient the workpiece for a new setup.

Another related advantage of multi-axis machining is the way that it gets rid of the need for complicated fittings, usually necessary to hold parts in place on 3-axis machines.

From a customer's perspective, however, the largest benefit of 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machining is the way that it is able to create extremely complex shapes with very high standards. With the additional axes, the system is able to move in fresh arcs and angles together with increased reach and versatility. This finally contributes to the capacity to produce a broad array of unusual geometries.

Furthermore, using a machine that could adjust its cutter at any angle, the task could be programmed to reduce the workpiece in the most effective way -- coming at an angle that will offer optimum cutting speed and processor removal, leading to a greater quality of the finished CNC prototype products.

5-axis CNC or 3 + 2? A short guide to finding the right tool for CNC prototype products

One of the main factors you must consider for cutting tools is choosing the number of axes that fit your workflow. You can choose a 3-axis system for relatively simple work, but for more complex parts you may need to upgrade. This is where 5-axis and 3 + 2-axis machines come in.

Although 5-axis machining has long been the first choice, 3 + 2 also has its own special status and has some obvious advantages. The 3 + 2 or 5-axis index (or any alternative name) is a machined form that has become popular among CNC prototype manufacturers with less complex printing requirements.

Let us have a closer look.

Workflow Differences

The core difference between the two technologies is angle machining, continuous machining, and indexed machining. This means that 3 + 2 machining or 5-axis "indexing" machining does not maintain continuous contact between the cutting tool and the workpiece on all rotating shafts. Contrary to this type of machining, simultaneous or true 5-axis machining uses the machine's three linear axes (X, Y, and Z) and two rotary axes (A and B), resulting in more complex contour surface machining.

What CNC prototype manufacturers may need to remember is that they should evaluate the collision avoidance and program simulation capabilities of CAM software. Still, one of the reasons why 3 + 2 is so popular is that a wide range of available programming utilities has emerged, so this is not a big obstacle.

Similarities

As for the common advantages, they all offer dimensional stability due to reduced installation times and the use of shorter tools to improve surface finish. The 3 + 2 milling process uses the same 3-axis control, but the table can be reoriented and rotated in two other directions. As a result, the processed object can be processed from various aspects, thereby reducing installation preparation and reducing the total cost. The shorter cycle time also reduces the operating costs of both technologies.

As anyone can imagine, processing CNC prototype products out of all five sides employing one installment calls for less preparation, and brings benefits of much shorter lead times while working with greater precision and eliminates the need to place the workpiece from one equipment to another.

Particular Applications

3 + 2-axis machining is ideal for parts that do not require extreme contour control, such as clamps, fixtures, housings and other such parts. And 5-axis machining is helpful for a more complex end product such as automotive, aerospace or healthcare parts. In other words, tighter tolerances and more complicated geometries are more suitable for 5-axis machining. Nonetheless, this is not the conclusion of the discussion. As previously mentioned, there are a number of distinct advantages to 3+2 axis machining which could make it even more desirable for making CNC prototype products.

Which procedure is ideal for my CNC prototype products?

Considering that 4-axis and 5-axis machines may create highly complex components, they are frequently preferred by customers in high-budget, high-stakes businesses such as the aerospace industry. But a multi-axis installation isn't essential for each and every job.

If cost is the number one priority, 3-axis machining may be the best choice. And even if the cost is no concern, extremely simple shapes are sometimes best left to 3-axis machines as well. 3-axis machines are more economical to buy and require less skill to function, therefore 3-axis machining of a component will be cheaper than among the more sophisticated procedures.

When neither of these standards applies, the choice gets trickier. And that is why it's often advisable to consult professional CNC prototype manufacturers for information on the sort of machine that is suitable for a particular job.