3-axis CNC milling machine VS 5-axis CNC milling machine?

In modern manufacturing, CNC milling machines, as an important processing equipment, are widely used in metal processing, plastic molding, mold manufacturing, and other fields. According to the number of moving axes, CNC milling machines can be divided into 3-axis CNC milling machines and 5-axis CNC milling machines. There are significant differences between the two in structure, function, application, and operation. This article will discuss in detail the difference between 3-axis CNC milling machines and 5-axis CNC milling machines to help readers better understand the characteristics and applications of these two devices.

1. Introduction to 3-axis CNC milling machines

3-axis CNC milling machines refer to CNC milling machines with three independent motion axes, usually the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, which control the position of the workpiece in the horizontal direction, vertical direction, and depth direction respectively. The working principle of the three-axis CNC milling machine is relatively simple, and the workpiece is processed by three-axis motion. It is usually used for the processing of two-dimensional or simple three-dimensional shapes.

Structure and operation: The operation of the three-axis CNC milling machine is mainly completed by controlling the movement of the three axes of X, Y, and Z. The X-axis generally controls the feed of the workpiece in the horizontal direction, the Y-axis controls the feed of the workpiece in the horizontal direction, and the Z-axis controls the up and down movement of the workpiece. Due to its relatively simple structure, 3-axis CNC milling machines are usually easier to operate than 5-axis CNC milling machines and are also more convenient to repair and maintain.

Application: 3-axis CNC milling machines are suitable for processing flat parts, simple curved parts, and some relatively simple three-dimensional shapes. It is usually used for mold processing, parts processing, milling, and drilling operations. Although it can complete most processing tasks, the performance of 3-axis CNC milling machines may be limited when dealing with complex shapes or tasks that require multi-angle cutting.

2. Introduction to 5-axis CNC milling machines

5-axis CNC milling machines are more complex equipment than 3-axis CNC milling machines. It not only has X, Y, and Z axis movements but also has two additional rotation axes, usually the A and B axes, which are used to control the rotation angle of the tool or workpiece. This design enables 5-axis CNC milling machines to achieve more complex processing tasks, especially in multi-angle and curved surface processing.

Structure and operation: The five axes of the five-axis CNC milling machine are three linear axes of X, Y, and Z and two rotary axes (A and B), of which the A axis usually controls the rotation of the tool around the X axis, and the B axis controls the rotation of the tool around the Y axis. Through the synergy of these five axes, the five-axis CNC milling machine can process the workpiece at multiple angles at the same time, greatly improving processing efficiency and processing accuracy.

Application: 5-axis CNC milling machines are widely used in aerospace, automobile manufacturing, precision mold processing, and other fields, especially in processing tasks that require complex geometric shapes and multi-angle cutting, the advantages of 5-axis CNC milling machines are fully reflected. For example, 5-axis CNC milling machines can process complex surfaces of aviation parts and fine structures of molds. Because it can process at multiple angles at the same time, it greatly reduces the number of fixture conversions of the workpiece, thereby improving production efficiency.

3. The main differences between 3-axis CNC milling machines and 5-axis CNC milling machines

Number of motion axes and flexibility: 3-axis CNC milling machines usually have only three motion axes, which control the feed of the workpiece in the X, Y , and Z directions respectively, and are suitable for processing planes and simple surfaces. The five-axis CNC milling machine has five moving axes, two of which are rotating axes, which increase the flexibility of the tool and enable the processing of multiple angles and complex shapes. The five-axis CNC milling machine is far more flexible and adaptable than the three-axis CNC milling machine.

Processing accuracy: Since the five-axis CNC milling machine can cut in multiple directions at the same time, it can better handle complex geometric shapes and precision parts. Therefore, the five-axis CNC milling machine is generally better than the three-axis CNC milling machine in terms of processing accuracy. Especially in the aerospace or medical device industries that require extremely high precision, the advantages of 5-axis CNC milling machines are particularly obvious.

Processing capacity: The three-axis CNC milling machine is suitable for processing two-dimensional or simple three-dimensional shapes and can complete most standard milling tasks. However, when faced with complex three-dimensional surfaces or workpieces that need to be cut at multiple angles, the processing capacity of the three-axis CNC milling machine is limited. In contrast, the five-axis CNC milling machine can process at multiple angles and directions at the same time, so it can handle more complex workpieces and improve processing efficiency.

Production efficiency: When processing complex workpieces, 3-axis CNC milling machines may need to frequently replace fixtures or reposition workpieces, which will lead to reduced production efficiency. 5-axis CNC milling machines are more efficient, especially in complex parts processing, because they can process at multiple angles at the same time, reducing the number of fixture changes and workpiece positioning.

Programming and operation complexity: The programming and operation of 3-axis CNC milling machines are relatively simple, and users can easily master and operate them. The operation and programming of 5-axis CNC milling machines are more complicated, and it is necessary to consider the coordination of the five axes and the rationality of the cutting path. The programming of 5-axis CNC milling machines usually requires professional technicians and requires a certain amount of learning and experience accumulation.

Price and investment: 5-axis CNC milling machines are usually more expensive due to their complex structure and high-precision processing capabilities. Therefore, it is suitable for industries that require high-precision processing and large production volumes. 3-axis CNC milling machines are suitable for general parts processing and small and medium-sized batch production because of their simple structure and relatively low price.

Applicable industries: 3-axis CNC milling machines are widely used in mold processing, automotive parts processing, furniture manufacturing, and other fields, and are suitable for tasks that do not require particularly demanding processing accuracy. 5-axis CNC milling machines are widely used in aerospace, automotive precision manufacturing, medical equipment, and high-end mold processing, especially in processing tasks that require extremely high precision and complex shapes. They have incomparable advantages.

3-axis CNC milling machines and 5-axis CNC milling machines each have their own unique advantages and scope of application. 3-axis CNC milling machines have become an ideal choice for small and medium-sized enterprises and mass production due to their lower price, easy operation and suitability for conventional processing tasks. 5-axis CNC milling machines are suitable for high-end industries such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and precision mold processing due to their higher processing accuracy, stronger processing capabilities, and higher production efficiency. According to specific processing needs and budgets, companies can choose the equipment that best suits them.

As a leading CNC milling machine ODM, we are committed to providing customers with high-quality CNC milling machine solutions. With advanced technology and rich industry experience, we are able to customize personalized processing equipment according to the specific needs of customers to achieve the highest processing accuracy and production efficiency.