The Difference between 3-axis and 5-axis CNC Cutting Machines

1. What is a CNC cutting machine

Mechatronics cutting machines are called CNC cutting machines. They drive the movement of the machine tool through a digital program. When the machine moves, the randomly equipped cutting tool cuts the object. Compared with the traditional manual cutting machine, the speed of the CNC cutting machine is much faster. As long as the computer code is correct and conforms to the design, the finished product has high dimensional accuracy and small errors.

CNC manufacturing is an ideal rapid prototyping manufacturing method. It can also be used to manufacture end-use products and components. Our company, as one of the professional 3D laser cutting machine suppliers, can introduce you to some differences between the two types of machines.

2. The differences between 3-axis and 5-axis CNC cutting machines

Numerical control cutting machines are often used in the process of processing. Among them, 3-axis and 5-axis CNC cutting machines are the main ones. The following will talk about the difference between 3-axis and 5-axis CNC cutting machines

In the 3-axis CNC cutting machine (3D CNC laser cutting machine) processing, the workpiece remains fixed, and the rotating tool cuts along the x, y, and z three axes. This is a relatively simple form of CNC machining that can manufacture products with simple structures. It is not suitable for processing complex geometric shapes or products with complex components.

The five-axis CNC cutting machine has an additional rotation axis compared to the four-axis CNC. The fifth axis rotates around the y-axis, also called the b-axis. The workpiece can also be rotated on some machines, sometimes called the b-axis or c-axis.

Because 5-axis CNC machining has high versatility, it can be used to cut complex precision parts, such as aerospace parts, titanium parts, oil and gas machinery parts, and military products。