What are the different types of 5-axis CNC machining, and how are they cost?
The manufacturing industry has now been completely transformed with the development of CNC machine tools, and the creation of 5-axis CNC machining machines has put the development of industries that require high-end production technology on the fast track. Because five-axis CNC machining offers greater flexibility and accuracy, which is very important in industries that require high-end machining technology. High-tech-dependent sectors often need to machine very complex parts, and the birth of five-axis CNC machining machines is an essential factor in their development. In this article, we will discuss the different types of five-axis CNC machining, their specific differences, the parts they are suitable for, and the costs.
What is 5-axis CNC machining?
Before we dive into the different types of 5-axis CNC machining and find out what costs you need to know to work together, we need to understand what a 5-axis CNC machining machine is and what 5-axis CNC machining is.
A five-axis CNC machine is a machining center that uses a computer to control the machining axes precisely. A five-axis CNC machine is a system that can hold five different machining axes simultaneously to move a tool or workpiece, providing greater precision and flexibility in the manufacturing process, which is why the creation of five-axis CNC machines has brought what could be called a revolutionary development to the manufacturing industry. These axes include X, Y, and Z, as well as two rotary axes, commonly referred to as A and B. The A-axis rotates around the X-axis, while the B-axis rotates around the Y-axis.
Five-axis CNC machining uses CNC machines, where CNC machinists use five-axis CNC machines to produce complex parts and components using the high-precision machining technology of CNC machines. The advantage of 5-axis CNC machining is that it allows the cutting tool to approach the machined part from any direction and angle, which is the only way to produce complex shapes that are difficult or impossible to make with traditional machining methods. Five-axis CNC machining is usually used in high-end equipment manufacturing and high-end technology industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical industries; these industries need parts for precision, and accuracy requirements are very high. Five-axis CNC machining is just right.
Different types of 5-axis CNC machining and costing formulas
Continuous five-axis CNC machining
Continuous five-axis CNC machining means the workpiece can move continuously on five axes simultaneously. This type of machining offers great flexibility because the tool can reach and machine the workpiece from multiple angles. This type of machining is often used to machine parts with complex geometries, such as impellers, turbine blades, and high-end equipment, such as aerospace components. It is also a direct result of the high price of this type of CNC machine and the difficulty of the parts that can be machined that the cost of continuous 5-axis CNC machining is higher than other types because it requires specialized equipment and tooling. The costing formula for this type of machining is
Cost = [(machining time x hourly rate) + tooling cost + material cost + overhead] x markup
Indexed five-axis CNC machining
Indexed 5-axis CNC machining involves rotating the workpiece in specific increments while machining. This type of machining is suitable for machining parts requiring different features from different angles. It is now commonly used for machining dental and medical implants, jewelry, and other small details. Indexed 5-axis CNC machining is less costly than continuous 5-axis machining because it requires less specialized equipment, and the complexity of the parts to be machined is lower. The cost calculation formula for this type of machining is
Cost = [(machining time x hourly rate) + setup cost + tooling cost + material cost + overhead] x markup
Hybrid five-axis CNC machining
Hybrid 5-axis CNC machining combines the advantages of both continuous and indexed 5-axis CNC machining types. This machining type is typically used for machine parts that require constant motion and indexed rotation involving the workpiece. It is generally used for claims with complex features requiring machining by both methods. Hybrid 5-axis CNC machining is used to manufacture parts for aerospace components and medical devices. The cost of hybrid 5-axis CNC machining is higher than fractional 5-axis machining but lower than continuous 5-axis machining. The cost calculation formula for this type of machining is
Cost = [(machining time x hourly rate) + setup cost + tooling cost + material cost + overhead] x markup
Other types of 5-axis CNC machining techniques
You will know from the above that all types of 5-axis CNC machining depend on the specific part being produced. In addition to the above kinds of 5-axis machining, there is also 3+2-axis machining. 3+2-axis machining is used to machine parts with flat surfaces and deep cavities, such as molds. There is also simultaneous 5-axis machining, which is used to a machine that parts with complex shapes and contours, such as medical implants and prostheses.
More machining technologies will be created with the research and development of data machine tools, and the parts that can be produced will become more complex and accurate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you need to look for a 5-axis CNC machining factory to serve you; then you need to understand the different types of 5-axis CNC machining and how complex and accurate parts each type can produce; only when you know in-depth, you can choose the proper processing method and factory to cooperate. Continuous 5-axis machining, 3+2-axis machining, and simultaneous 5-axis machining offer unique advantages for different types of parts. So it would help to consider factors such as hourly rates and estimated machining times when considering the cost of 5-axis machining. With this knowledge, you can choose the most appropriate and economical method for their needs. If you need 5-axis CNC machining services, you can contact Anpllocnc directly.