Whatsapp Email Get a Auota

Understanding the Importance of the 4th Axis on CNC Machines

Introduction:

In the world of CNC machining, the 4th axis is a crucial component that enhances the capabilities and versatility of these machines. While most traditional CNC machines operate in three axes (X, Y, and Z), the addition of a 4th axis opens up new possibilities and allows for more complex components to be manufactured. In this blog post, we will delve into what the 4th axis on a CNC machine is, how it works, and why it is an essential feature for advanced machining operations. So, let's jump right in!

1. What is the 4th Axis on a CNC Machine?

The 4th axis on a CNC machine refers to an additional rotary axis that provides rotational movement around a specific axis, usually known as the A-axis. This axis complements the linear movements of the X, Y, and Z axes and enables the machine to perform continuous 4-axis machining operations. By adding rotational capabilities, the 4th axis expands the machining possibilities and opens up opportunities to create more intricate designs, complex geometries, and precise cylindrical cuts.

2. How Does the 4th Axis Work?

The 4th axis is typically achieved through a rotary table attachment or a tilting rotary table, which can be mounted on the machining center's worktable. The rotary table allows the workpiece to rotate around a specific axis, either continuously or in incremental steps, while the other axes are simultaneously controlled for linear movements. This synchronized operation enables the machine to cut features on multiple sides of the workpiece without requiring repositioning, resulting in improved productivity and accuracy.

3. Benefits of the 4th Axis on CNC Machines

The incorporation of the 4th axis brings several benefits to CNC machining operations. Let's explore some of the key advantages:

3.1 Increased Machining Flexibility: With the ability to rotate the workpiece, the 4th axis allows for machining operations that were previously unattainable. It enables manufacturers to create complex 3D shapes, sculptured surfaces, tapered features, and even helical cuts without the need for manual repositioning.

3.2 Improved Efficiency: By eliminating the need for repositioning, the 4th axis saves considerable time and effort. It reduces setup costs, minimizes operator intervention, and enhances overall machining efficiency. Additionally, it enables simultaneous cutting on multiple sides of the workpiece, further reducing machining time.

3.3 Enhanced Precision: The 4th axis provides better control over the workpiece, allowing for precise positioning and machining. It enables the creation of intricate designs and precise features that would be challenging to achieve using traditional 3-axis machining. This enhanced precision opens up opportunities for high-quality surface finishes and tight tolerance machining.

4. Applications of the 4th Axis in CNC Machining

The 4th axis finds extensive applications across various industries. Some notable use cases include:

4.1 Aerospace Industry: CNC machines with the 4th axis can produce complex turbine blades, propellers, and engine components with intricate curved features.

4.2 Automotive Industry: The 4th axis is utilized in the production of gears, camshafts, crankshafts, and other rotational components that require precise machining.

4.3 Jewelry Making: With the 4th axis, CNC machines can create intricate designs, engravings, and filigree work on jewelry pieces, adding significant value to the final product.

4.4 Prototyping and Model Making: The 4th axis enables the creation of detailed prototypes, 3D models, and molds with complex shapes and contours.

5. Conclusion:

In summary, the 4th axis on a CNC machine is a vital feature that enhances the machine's capabilities and widens the scope of machining operations. From increased flexibility and efficiency to improved precision and wider application opportunities, the 4th axis opens up new possibilities for manufacturers. By embracing this technology, CNC machining continues to evolve, enabling the production of more intricate components and pushing the boundaries of design and engineering. So, whether you are in the aerospace, automotive, or jewelry industry, understanding the importance of the 4th axis can help you unlock a world of possibilities in your machining processes.

what is the 4th axis on a cnc machine

On demand manufacturing online CNC Machining Services

If you need custom machined parts with complex geometries, or get end-use products in the shortest possible time, sigma technik limited is good enough to break through all of that and achieve your idea immediately.

  • One -to-one friendly service
  • Instant quota within couple of hours
  • Tolerances down to +-0.01mm
  • From one -off prototypes to full mass production
Mission And Vision

OUR SERVICES

CNC Machining

Equipped with 3-4-5 axis CNC milling and CNC turning machines, which enable us to handle even more complex parts with high precision.

Rapid Injection molding

Low investment, fast lead time, perfect for your start-up business.

Sheet metal

Our talented sheet metal engineers and skilled craftsmen work together to provide high quality custom metal products.

3D Printing

We offer SLA/SLS technologies to transform your 3D files into physical parts.

00+

Delicated Employees

00+

Countries Served

00+

Satisfied Customers

00+

Projects Delivered Per Month

About Us

What can we do?

Sigma Technik Limited, as a prototype production company and rapid manufacturer focusing on rapid prototyping and low volume production of plastic and metal parts, has advanced manufacturing technology, one-stop service, diversified manufacturing methods, on-demand manufacturing services and efficient manufacturing processes, which can provide customers with high-quality, efficient and customized product manufacturing services and help customers improve product quality and market competitiveness.

CNC Machining Case Application Field

CNC machining is a versatile manufacturing technology that can be used for a wide range of applications. Common examples include components for the aerospace, automotive, medical industries and etc.

Automotive components

Aerospace components

Medical components

Metal and plastic processing

Clear optical prototype for CNC machining

Let’s start a great partnership journey!

CNC Machining FAQs

Get the support you need on CNC machining and engineering information by reading the FAQ here.

It may be caused by unstable processing equipment or tool wear and other reasons, so it is necessary to check the equipment and tools in time and repair or replace them.

It may be due to severe wear of cutting tools or inappropriate cutting parameters, which require timely replacement or adjustment of cutting tools or adjustment of machining parameters.

It may be caused by programming errors, program transmission errors, or programming parameter settings, and it is necessary to check and modify the program in a timely manner.

It may be due to equipment imbalance or unstable cutting tools during the processing, and timely adjustment of equipment and tools is necessary.

The quality and usage method of cutting fluid can affect the surface quality of parts and tool life. It is necessary to choose a suitable cutting fluid based on the processing materials and cutting conditions, and use it according to the instructions.

It may be due to residual stress in the material and thermal deformation during processing, and it is necessary to consider the compatibility between the material and processing technology to reduce part deformation.