5-axis Control Machining Fundamentals

Features of 5-axis Control Machines
- What is 5-axis Control Machining?
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- More flexible machining method that can be done on a machine with three linear axes (X, Y and Z) and additional two swivel rotary axes.
- Additional swivel rotary axes enable machining of more extensive areas in one setup.
- Machining is mainly grouped into two types depending on how the additional two axes are used.
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Indexing 5-axis machining
Machining is done on three linear axes with additional two axes positioned at any angle.
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Simultaneous 5-axis machining
Two swivel rotary axes and three linear axes are synchronized to machine 3D curved surfaces.
Types of 5-axis Control Machines
5-axis control machines are mainly categorized into three types according to where swivel rotary axes are added.
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Swivel rotary table type
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Swivel head rotary table type
Representative Machines
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Swivel rotary head type
Benefits of 5-axis Control Machining
5-axis control machines may be considered being used for workpieces with special shapes, but they actually offer a lot of advantages in machining general-shaped workpieces compared to 3-axis control machines.
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Shorter machining time, higher machining
quality & accuracy- Reduction in setups
- Avoidance of a tool tip point where tool's peripheral speed becomes zero
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Less machining cost, higher machining
quality & accuracy- No special tools required
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Less
machining cost- No dedicated fixtures required