1, Differences in technical characteristics
A 4-axis CNC machine tool is based on the traditional X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis linear motion, with the addition of a rotating axis (usually the A-axis) to form a four-axis linkage. This rotation axis usually revolves around the X or Y axis, allowing the tool to machine more complex surfaces and shapes, such as helices, inclined surfaces, etc. The introduction of 4-axis CNC machine tools has greatly expanded the ability of CNC machining, making it possible to process some parts that were originally difficult to machine.
Compared to 4-axis CNC, 5-axis CNC machine tools go further by adding a rotation axis (such as B-axis or C-axis) on top of the 4-axis, forming simultaneous linkage of five coordinate axes. This configuration allows the tool to approach the workpiece from almost any angle, achieving efficient and high-precision machining of complex three-dimensional shapes such as turbine blades, molds, etc. The flexibility and processing capacity of 5-axis CNC machine tools far exceed that of 4-axis, making them a key equipment in modern high-end manufacturing.
2, Comparison of processing efficiency
A 4-axis CNC machine tool enables the tool to rotate during the machining process by adding a rotation axis, thereby achieving the machining of complex surfaces. However, due to having only one axis of rotation, it may still require multiple clamping or tool path adjustments when handling parts with specific angles or shapes. However, 4-axis CNC has significantly improved machining efficiency, especially in handling complex shapes such as box and shell components.
The 5-axis CNC machine tool, due to its two rotating axes, can process workpieces from multiple directions with the tool. This all-round processing capability not only reduces the number of clamping times and workpiece adjustment time, but also greatly improves machining accuracy and surface quality. When processing complex parts, a 5-axis CNC machine tool can complete multiple machining tasks at once, significantly improving production efficiency. In addition, due to the more flexible and variable relative position between the tool and the workpiece, 5-axis CNC can also reduce the impact of cutting force and vibration on machining accuracy.
3, Comparison of application fields
4-axis CNC machine tools have been widely used in multiple industrial fields due to their moderate technical complexity and high processing capacity. For example, in the aerospace field, 4-axis CNC machine tools are used to process high-precision parts such as engine components and fuselage structural components; In the automotive industry, it is used to produce key components such as engine blocks and body coverings. In addition, 4-axis CNC is widely used in fields such as mold processing and precision instrument manufacturing.
5-axis CNC machine tools have become a star product in modern high-end manufacturing industry due to their excellent processing capabilities and flexibility. It is not only widely used in high-precision part processing in traditional fields such as aerospace and automotive manufacturing, but also gradually penetrating into emerging fields such as medical devices, precision instruments, and scientific research equipment. 5-axis CNC machine tools have shown unparalleled advantages in processing complex three-dimensional shapes, improving production efficiency and machining accuracy.
