CNC four-axis machining is an advanced machining method developed on the basis of traditional three-axis machining. Traditional three-axis machining includes three linear axes, X, Y, and Z, which represent the movement in the three directions of left and right, front and back, and up and down. Four-axis machining adds a rotary axis on this basis, usually called A, B or C axis.
The principle of CNC four-axis machining is not complicated, but it contains powerful technical strength. First of all, through professional computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software for programming, designers accurately plan the path of the tool and cutting parameters according to the shape, size and machining requirements of the workpiece. In the programming process, the coordinated movement of the four axes should be fully considered, and the coordination of the rotary axis and the linear axis should be reasonably arranged to achieve efficient machining of parts with complex shapes.
In the actual machining process, the workpiece is fixed on the workbench, and the movement of the four axes is precisely controlled by the computer numerical control (CNC) system. The tool cuts the workpiece along the predetermined path. The addition of the rotary axis allows the tool to approach the workpiece from different angles, which makes it possible to process parts with complex curved surfaces, inclined surfaces and spiral shapes.
CNC four-axis machining has many significant advantages.
1. Improve machining accuracy.
Since the number of workpiece clamping times is reduced, the error caused by multiple clamping is reduced. At the same time, the precise control system can ensure the stability of the tool during the machining process, reduce vibration and error, and make the size of the machined parts more accurate and the surface quality higher.
2. Increase machining flexibility. It can easily cope with the machining of parts of various complex shapes, such as impellers, propellers, complex curved surface molds, etc. The existence of the rotating axis makes the machining angle more diversified, which can meet the machining of parts with different design requirements, and provides designers with a larger creative space.
3. Improve production efficiency. One clamping can complete the machining of multiple surfaces, greatly reducing the machining time and auxiliary time. Multi-axis linkage can also achieve high-speed cutting, increase machining speed, and thus significantly improve production efficiency.
CNC four-axis machining has a wide range of applications in many fields.
1. In the field of aerospace, the machining of complex parts such as aircraft engine blades and impellers is inseparable from CNC four-axis machining technology. These parts usually have complex curved surfaces and high precision requirements. Four-axis machining can accurately machine these parts to ensure the performance and safety of the aircraft. At the same time, precision mold manufacturing in the aerospace field is also inseparable from four-axis machining, such as aircraft fuselage molds, wing molds, etc., which can meet high-difficulty design and manufacturing requirements.
2. In the field of automobile manufacturing, CNC four-axis machining can efficiently and accurately process complex parts such as automobile engine cylinder blocks and cylinder heads, improving the quality and performance of automobile parts. The manufacturing of automobile molds also benefits from four-axis machining technology, such as automobile cover molds, interior molds, etc., which can produce more complex and precise molds and improve the appearance and interior quality of automobiles.
3. In the field of medical devices, high-precision medical device parts, such as artificial joints, dental equipment, etc., have extremely high requirements for machining accuracy and surface quality. Four-axis machining can meet these strict requirements. Ensure the safety and reliability of medical devices.
4. In the field of electronic communications, CNC four-axis machining can process the shells and internal structural parts of electronic products such as mobile phones and computers, meeting the development trend of thinning and miniaturization of electronic products. For example, the metal frame of mobile phones and the radiator of computers can be manufactured with high precision through four-axis machining.
In the field of handicraft manufacturing, four-axis machining can produce exquisite sculptures, decorations, etc. Complex curved surfaces and fine patterns can be easily achieved through four-axis machining, adding artistic value to handicrafts.