How to choose a suitable four-axis CNC milling machine?

In modern manufacturing, CNC milling machines have become key tools for machining precision parts and complex shapes. 4-axis CNC milling machines, with their high precision and multifunctionality, have been widely used in aerospace, automotive manufacturing, medical equipment, and other industries. How to choose a suitable 4-axis CNC milling machine has become an important issue facing companies and manufacturers. This article will provide you with a detailed guide to help you find the model that best suits your needs among the many 4-axis CNC milling machines.

1. Understanding 4-axis CNC milling machines

Compared with traditional three-axis CNC milling machines, 4-axis CNC milling machines (CNC Milling machines) have an additional rotary axis (usually the A axis), which enables four-axis milling machines to perform more complex processing. This additional rotary axis allows the workpiece to be processed from different angles, significantly improving the processing accuracy and efficiency.

The advantages of 4-axis CNC milling machines include:

Multi-faceted processing: The ability to process on multiple faces reduces the number of workpiece clamping times and saves time.

High-precision machining: Through the coordinated operation of four axes, more precise machining can be achieved, especially in the manufacture of complex surfaces or molds.

Wide range of applications: 4-axis CNC milling machines can process a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, alloys, etc., and are widely used in different industries.

2. Factors to consider when choosing 4-axis CNC milling machines

When choosing a 4-axis CNC milling machine, you must consider many factors to ensure that the selected model can meet your production needs. The following are several key factors that should be focused on when choosing a 4-axis CNC milling machine.

Machining accuracy of machine tools

Machining accuracy is one of the most important factors when choosing 4-axis CNC milling machines. Different types of CNC milling machines have different precisions, usually measured in microns (μm). High-precision machine tools can provide more sophisticated machining and are suitable for industries with very strict requirements on dimensional tolerances and form and position tolerances, such as aviation, automobiles, etc.

To ensure that the accuracy of the 4-axis CNC milling machines meets your requirements, you can evaluate it from the following aspects:

Table size: Large-sized workpieces require large-sized worktables.

Processing accuracy: Usually divided into ±0.01mm, ±0.05mm, etc., you need to choose the appropriate accuracy according to the requirements of the workpiece.

Repeat positioning accuracy: that is, the accuracy of the machine tool when repeating operations at the same position.

Spindle power and speed

Spindle power and speed directly affect the processing capacity of 4-axis CNC milling machines. Higher power and speed can improve processing efficiency and are suitable for processing hard materials. When choosing, you should pay attention to the following aspects:

Spindle power: For most milling operations, a spindle power of 3-5kW is sufficient, but if you need to process hard materials or perform heavy cutting, it is recommended to choose a model with higher power.

Spindle speed: High speed helps to improve processing efficiency and surface quality, especially when processing small parts, higher speed can improve processing accuracy and speed.

Control system and operation interface

Most modern CNC milling machines are equipped with advanced control systems, such as FANUC, Siemens, and Heidenhain. Control systems of different brands have different functions and operating experiences. Therefore, choosing a suitable control system is crucial for operating efficiency and processing quality.

Ease of use: the friendliness of the operating interface, whether it supports touch screen operation, and whether it has real-time monitoring and troubleshooting functions.

Programming function: Some high-end control systems support automatic programming functions, which can generate processing paths based on CAD drawings, reducing the workload of manual programming.

Compatibility: Make sure that the machine tool’s control system is compatible with existing CAD/CAM software so that processing files can be easily imported.

Automation level and tool change system

The automation level of 4-axis CNC milling machines is also an important factor to consider when choosing. A higher degree of automation can improve production efficiency and reduce manual intervention. Common automation functions include:

Automatic tool change system: It can automatically change tools, thereby improving processing efficiency and reducing machine downtime. When choosing an automatic tool change system, you should pay attention to its tool change speed and tool magazine capacity.

Robot matching: For large-scale production, you can choose 4-axis CNC milling machines that collaborate with robots to achieve a fully automated production line.

Rigidity and stability of machine tools

The rigidity and stability of machine tools directly affect the processing accuracy and processing effect. When selecting a machine tool, you should ensure that it has a good structural design and materials to withstand the cutting force and vibration generated during high-speed processing.

4-axis CNC milling machines with good rigidity can reduce vibration, improve processing stability, and ensure processing accuracy. High-rigidity machine tools usually use large-sized beds and precise guide rail design.

Maintenance and support services

When purchasing 4-axis CNC milling machines, after-sales service is crucial when choosing a 4-axis CNC milling machine supplier. Regular maintenance and timely technical support can extend the service life of the machine tool and ensure the continuous operation of the production line. The following points should be considered when choosing:

Warranty period and service agreement: Understand the manufacturer’s warranty period and after-sales service policy to ensure that you can get sufficient technical support after purchase.

Spare parts supply: Ensure that the supplier can provide timely spare parts supply to reduce machine downtime.

Training and support: Understand whether operation training and technical support are provided, especially training for operators, so as to better master the operation of the equipment.

3. Brand and budget selection

Well-known brands

4-axis CNC milling machines from well-known brands usually guarantee higher quality and stability. The machine tools provided are of high precision, multiple functions, and easy operation, which are suitable for manufacturing companies of different sizes.

Budget and cost-effectiveness

It is also very important to choose a suitable 4-axis CNC milling machine according to the budget. If your budget is limited, you can choose a medium-priced CNC milling machine brand and choose a product with high cost-effectiveness. For high-end precision processing companies, you can invest in higher-end equipment to obtain higher processing accuracy and efficiency.

Choosing a suitable 4-axis CNC milling machine is a process of comprehensive consideration of many factors. By understanding the working principle and various technical parameters of 4-axis CNC milling machines, combined with your actual needs (such as processing accuracy, materials, workbench size, etc.), choosing a device that meets your needs can effectively improve production efficiency, reduce production costs, and ensure the accuracy and quality of part processing.

When choosing, be sure to fully consider multiple aspects such as spindle power, control system, degree of automation, and stability of machine tools, and ensure that the selected brand can provide complete after-sales service and technical support. Ultimately, the right 4-axis CNC milling machines will become a powerful assistant in your manufacturing process. Through the comprehensive analysis of the above content, I hope you can make a more informed decision when choosing a 4-axis CNC milling machine, helping your production process to be more efficient, accurate, and stable.