Top 5 Ways to Make the Best Use of 5-Axis CNC Machining

by Norm Grimberg CNC Machining and Machine Shop

5-axis CNC machining offers a great improvement over the conventional 2 or 3-axis machining. The 5-axis machines are CNC machines that simultaneously move a tool or part on five different axes.

5-axis machining allows creating complex designs accurately, efficiently and in a cost-effective manner. It offers infinite possibilities to its users when it comes to the part sizes and shapes that can be accurately processed.

It is a common scenario that after installing 5-axis machines, 5-axis CNC machining services providers fail to fully utilize the capabilities offered by these powerful machines. Making use of the following ways can help you in getting the best from 5-axis CNC machining – 

Understand your clients’ requirements thoroughly

First of all, communicate thoroughly with your clients and understand their requirements, and then think whether 5-axis machining is required or just 2 or 3-axis machining will do the job.

Make sure that you have complete and accurate data from your clients. If the required set of data is lacking or incomplete, 5-axis machine will not able to produce the product of the desired quality and specifications. 

You can also run a pretest or use simulation before doing the final job. This will let you know if any adjustments are needed to make your machine do its best in making the desired product. At times, you may find it cost-effective and sufficient to use only 3 axes of your 5-axis machine to get the product of the required quality.   

Also, make sure that your software has all the features to enable your multi-axis machine to perform at its best.

Make use of a full and powerful simulation program

Collisions can take place frequently and visualize these points is very difficult. Therefore, make use of powerful simulation software before sending the instructions from the computer-aided design system to your multi-axis machine.

Make use of a high-quality 3-D model of the machine tool and put as many details as possible in the simulation program, so that the risks are significantly reduced. Don’t use your client’s model built from a 2-D print as it can result in errors in the part.

Ensure that the 3-D model clearly provides all the details so that the machine can produce the design accurately as per the customer’s specifications.

Have access to parts from all sides

Having access to all sides of the part helps in improving production and results in accurate parts having superb surface finish.

Use tools built for 5-axis machining

It is important to use tools specifically built for 5-axis machining. Factors such as tool’s diameter and tool’s length affect the deviation of tool-path and accuracy. Similarly, the correct tool coating makes it easy to achieve specifications laid by the client, and also increases the life of the cutting tool. To speed up your machining process, you can make use of a tool changer that works automatically.

Use powerful machinery

The spindle should move at adequate rpm to match the requirements of the job. All five axes should move at the same speed. To get a high-quality product from your machine, make sure that machine vibrations are highly reduced and the optimum temperature is maintained.

By making use of 5-axis CNC machining at its full potential, machining services provider can accurately make high-quality parts having sophisticated designs.

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Created on Oct 22nd 2019 03:59. Viewed 441 times.

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