There are so many types of 5 axis machining solutions to choose from. Which is the right machine for you? And could robots be a combined solution?
In the realm of advanced manufacturing, 5 axis machining is a well established, versatile, and highly efficient approach to achieve complex machining. Various machines exist for a huge range of different 5 axis machining tasks, from waterjet machining to the confusingly named “double pivoting spindle heads.”
When you understand the differences between these machines, you might wonder… is there a way for me to do all these tasks with a single machine?
And could robots be the answer?
Let’s have a look at the various 5 axis machining systems you can find and how robotics fits in.
What Are 5 Axis CNC Machines and Why Use Them?
The term “5 axis machining” refers to the ability of a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine to move a part or tool along five different axes simultaneously. This provides high flexibility and accuracy, even for complex machining tasks.
The most common configuration for 5 axis machining involves simultaneous movement along three linear axes and two rotational axes.
The alternative to 5 axis machining is the more conventional 3 axis machining. Here, the tool moves along just the three linear axes.
Compared to 3 axis machining, there are various benefits to 5 axis machining, including:
Increased efficiency — With the larger range of motion and ability to work from multiple angles, 5 axis CNC machines can work through machining tasks faster with fewer setups and changes.
Improved accuracy — For more complex machining paths, the simultaneous movement along 5 axes can deliver more precise milling.
Reduced costs — Cost savings can come because you are using a single machine instead of multiple machines. You also save costs associated with human operators changing the setup.
These are the benefits for any 5 axis machine. However, with robotic machining, these same benefits can be even more pronounced.
9 Different Types of 5 Axis Machining Machines
There are a surprisingly high number of 5 axis machining machines. This means that, despite their versatility, you may still need a different type of machine for a specific task.
Here are 9 types of … plus a bonus option that really might be the best of all worlds:
1. 5 Axis CNC Mills
Perhaps the most common type of 5 axis machining system are CNC mills. They are ideal for machining hard materials, primarily metal.
CNC mills work by rotating the part along two axes while moving it along three linear axis.
2. 5 Axis CNC Routers
Similar to mills, CNC routers have a rotating spindle that can move along two rotational axes with three linear axes.
The major difference is that CNC routers typically have larger work area and are used for cutting softer materials like wood or foam.
3. 5 Axis Waterjet Machines
As the name suggests, 5 axis waterjet machines use water to cut through materials. Sometimes the water is mixed with abrasive particles.
Waterjet cutting is effective with a wide array of materials, including metals, glass, and stone.
4. 5 Axis CNC Desktop and Mini Machines
Desktop and mini CNC machines are often used for prototyping or small scale production. They can easily fit on a desk or workbench.
Benefits of using desktop machines include that they are cost effective, space efficient, and can be very precise.
5. 5 Axis CNC Engraving Machines
Engraving machines use a rotating tool to create intricate designs and markings on materials.
Just like with robotic engraving, these 5 axis machines can be an easy method to add customization and personalization to your products.
6. Rotary Table + Pivoting Spindle Head Machines
Rotary table and pivoting spindle head machines are one of several specific designs of 5 axis machining solution. They feature 360 degree rotary table and pivoting spindle head.
These machines are ideal for cylindrical parts and tall workpieces.
7. Double Rotary Table Machines
A related type of 5 axis machine is the double rotary table. These combine a main rotary table with an additional rotary axis mounted on the main table.
Double rotary tables are best for long tools or extensions. They require precise programming to account for the additional rotary axis.
8. Double Pivoting Spindle Head Machines
Double pivoting spindle head machines feature two pivots at the spindle head. They are particularly suited to machining features on the internal diameter of cylindrical parts.
These are often used in aerospace manufacturing to machine parts with odd-angle holes.
9. Rotary Table + Table Trunnion Machines
Finally, rotary table and trunnion degrees combine a 360 degree rotary table with a 180 degree trunnion, used to orient cylinders.
These are generally compact in design and ideal for deep cuts for continuous five axis machining.
Bonus Option: Or You Could Just Use a Robot…
Clearly, there are various types of 5 axis machining machine you need to choose from…
But there is another method that can apply to many 5 axis machining tasks. This single solution is highly flexible and can be an even more effective alternative to most of the machines listed above.
Robot machining involves using a robot to operate the machining tool instead of a conventional machine. This offers various benefits from bigger workspaces to simpler programming.
The common question people have about robot machining is whether it can match dedicated 5 axis CNC machines for performance… and, yes, robots can actually outperform CNC machines.
RoboDK includes features for easy programming for both 5 axis and 6 axis machining tasks.
What 5 axis machining tasks do you often perform? Tell us in the comments below or join the discussion on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or in the RoboDK Forum.. Also, check out our extensive video collection and subscribe to the RoboDK YouTube Channel
