4 axis cnc machine

Types of 4 axis CNC machines

A 4 axis CNC machine is an automated device with four carving/picking axes. In a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining context, an axis refers to a direction in which the machine can move and perform operations. Generally, 4-axis CNC machines include three standard axes (X, Y, and Z) and an additional rotational element. This fourth axis, known as the A-axis, allows rotary movements, adding to the machine's versatility. The workpiece rotates around a fixed point.

The models listed below are some popular 4-axis CNC machines with varied functionalities.

• 4 Axis CNC Router:

  The CNC router works great for soft materials like plastic, wood, vinyl, etc., and adds an automated rotary engraving component (the fourth axis). Together, they make the machine more versatile by allowing it to work with different types of materials (including those with curved surfaces) and giving it more options for designs.

• 4 Axis CNC Mill:

  The 4-axis CNC milling machine includes a fourth axis on the work table. This device, like a standard 3-axis CNC mill, bores holes, cuts, and carves but with the added bonus of being able to perform such tasks on curved surfaces and at more angles and positions than conventional machines.

• 4 Axis CNC Laser Machine:

  With the aid of a laser beam, this device makes precise engravings on any kind of material. The fourth axis gives the workpiece greater rotational freedom, which improves engraving accuracy and quality, especially on cylindrical surfaces.

• 4 Axis CNC Plasma Machine:

  The plasma device cuts metal sheets that are relatively thick. It operates by using a plasma arc to make accurate and clean cuts. The machine's fourth rotary axis increases flexibility and precision for machining cylindrical workpieces.

• 4 Axis CNC Router + Rotational Axis:

  This machine uses the fourth rotational axis and the CNC router's three standard straight axes to work on cylindrical pieces like wooden shafts and other small metallic rods. It can also create complex patterns on all sides of the workpiece with more automation and precision.

Specification and maintenance of 4-axis CNC machines

The specifications of 4-axis CNC machines vary depending on the model. The following table gives a summary of the key specifications of 4-axis CNC machines.

• Materials: 4-axis CNC machines can work on various materials like aluminum alloy, wood, steel, copper, PVC, acrylic, plastic, acrylic, MDF, and ceramics.
• Spindle motor: The spindle motor can be either water-cooled or air-cooled. A water-cooled spindle motor works better in quieter environments. Four main categories exist for spindle motors: brushless, synchronous, brush less DC, and permanent magnet motors. Brushless AC motors are commonly used in CNC machines for routing and engraving.
• Spindle speed: The speeds generally range between 24000 and 60000 rpm.
• CNC router bits: These bits have different shapes and qualities to suit various materials. Some are made of carbon steel with a higher hardness for carving and engraving, while others are made of alloy steel with higher precision and longer lifespans.
• Rotary axis: Some 4-axis CNC machines have a rotary axis that lets the machine turn an object around its fixed axis. This ability is important for jobs like making custom graphics on cylindrical parts.
• Control system: The control system is like the human brain of the CNC machine. It understands and processes the design file, translating it into commands that drive the machine to execute the desired operation. Popular control systems include Mach3, DSP, and certain systems based on Linux. The Mach3 control system is mostly used in 3D CNC routers with fewer than 5 axes.

Machines with a rotary axis can rotate an object around its fixed axis, enabling customized work on cylindrical parts. F-Series 4-Axis CNC Machines have one rotary table with working areas of about 1200-1600 mm on the XY plane. Customers can choose between a rack and pinion or a direct-drive structure. Higher configurations also have a linear guidance system, servo drivers, and stepper motors.

Maintaining a 4-axis CNC machine is critical to keeping it operational for as long as possible. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Always keep the working area clean. Remove all debris and dust while the machine is running and after stopping it. This practice reduces the risk of fire and damage to internal parts. Use a brush and shop vacuum to clean the machine more thoroughly.
• Never eat or drink while operating the machine. Liquids can spill and cause severe damage. They can also cause the operator to lose focus and control, leading to accidents.
• Buy a dust collection system for gnawers dedicated to wood projects. The system will help extract the dust generated from the workpiece and cut the noise for a more pleasant experience.
• Educate the users of the CNC machine about its proper use. Develop a scheduled maintenance plan and a user manual that includes best practices, machine features, troubleshooting guidelines, and safety precautions.
• Lubricate the moving parts of the CNC machine per the manufacturer's instructions. Use the recommended lubricants and apply them to the specified areas and intervals. Keep the machine's moving components clean to prevent debris build-up and facilitate smooth operation.
• Run a diagnostic test and inspect the machine component routinely. Look for unusual signs like strange noises, overheating, and loose parts. Monitor critical components like the spindle and ensure their operating temperatures are normal.
• Perform routine calibrations to ensure the accuracy and precision of the machine. Check and adjust the alignment, positioning, and tool offsets according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

Scenarios of 4-axis CNC machines

The 4-axis CNC machine has many applications in different industries. Here are some of the ways businesses use it.

• Cutting materials for manufacturing projects

  Various manufacturing industries use the 4-axis CNC machine to cut different materials like wood, plastic, and aluminum. The device creates precise cuts, shapes, and sizes to meet project specifications. It is also used to create prototypes and models of final products.

• Machining tasks in manufacturing shops

  CNC routers with a fourth axis can turn workpieces on a vertical axis. This ability improves tasks like CNC milling, drilling, engraving, and much more. The machine enhances the accuracy and speed of creating parts for different devices.

• Creating decorative items in the woodworking industry

  The woodworking industry uses the 4-axis CNC router to create beautiful decorative wooden items. Some examples are wooden medallions, which may be difficult to create by hand. The machine can create varying intricate patterns on both the flat and cylindrical workpieces.

• Customizing products in the sign-making industry

  The 4-axis CNC router helps to create unique signs for businesses, public spaces, and events. It also engraves letters and different patterns on raised surfaces. Using a CNC machine for creating signs will produce standardized products with high levels of accuracy and consistency.

• Creating parts for different industries

  The 4th axis on CNC machines allows workpieces to rotate while a fixed cutting tool removes material. This unique feature lets the machine produce cylindrical parts like spindles, shafts, and pins. These turned parts are often needed in the automotive, aerospace, and medical industries.

How to choose 4 axis CNC machines

When choosing the appropriate 4 axis CNC machine, various factors need to be considered. These include the design, type of parts to be machined, workpiece capacity, software compatibility, and budget constraints.

• Impressive machining capacity

  The key feature of a 4 axis CNC machine is the extra rotational spindle or axis that provides it with more flexibility and greater precision when machining an object. Prioritize the 4 axis CNC machine with an additional A-axis or B-axis. The addition of these two extra spindles can provide more freedom when repositioning the workpiece. Further enhance the freedom of movement in the machine by selecting models with spindles that can rotate at higher speeds.

• Workpiece compatibility

  Every 4 axis CNC machine has certain limitations when it comes to the size of the object that can be placed into it. A space or vice grip is used to hold the item securely. The workpiece's size and weight must be within the 4 axis CNC machine's capacity. Otherwise, the object cannot be machined. Check the workpiece diameter and height to ensure the machine can handle it.

• Tool variety

  Due to the additional rotational spindles that the 4 CNC machines have, they can be fitted with more tools than just the usual quantity. Extra tools mean a larger variety of functions and processing techniques. Choose the machines with interchangeable tools so that business owners can use different tools for other scenarios.

• Software and control

  A buyer must confirm that the software used to program the 4 axis CNC machine is compatible with the design software used in the company. It must also be easy to use with a user-friendly interface so that the employees can learn how to use it quickly. The machine's controller must work seamlessly with the software to avoid any unnecessary delays or problems in the machining process.

• Budget limitations

  Lastly, the most crucial factor to consider is the budget limits when buying the 4 axis CNC machine. A business will need to consider its investment and determine how much it can fulfill to purchase the machine at that specific point in time. Budget constraints will limit the choices of 4 axis CNC machines, so it is best to prioritize the essential features and specifications that need to be included in the final choice.

4 axis CNC machine FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a 3 and 4 axis CNC machine?

A1: The difference between the 3 and 4 axis CNC machines is the additional rotational axis in the 4 CNC machines. While the three-axis machines only move left-right, up-down, and front-back, a straightforward spatial direction; the 4-axis CNC machines allow workpieces to roll on one more axis, which permits the machine to reach more complex angles and make more intricate designs.

Q2: What types of materials can a 4 axis CNC router cut?

A2: Generally, the routers tend to beacasually large and gentle. Therefore, they should be able to cut metals, plastics, wood, and stone materials. Nevertheless, depending on the specific kind of machine, one should always check the manufacturer's specifications, as some machines are designed to handle specific materials better than others.

Q3: What are the benefits of 4 axis CNC machines?

A3: The 4-axis CNC machines increase the complexity and quantity of jobs that a machine can perform. This mostly eliminates manual labor and, therefore, increased productivity. The machines also improve the precision of very high levels, reducing the margin of error and standardizing production. Finally, they can make more complex assemblies more quickly.

Q4: What control software does a 4 axis CNC machine use?

A4: Different types of machines use various CNC (computerized numerical control) software. However, some commonly used ones are ArtSoft Mach3, LinuxCNC, and Centroid. Before getting a machine, one should ensure that the software will be easy to use and, if necessary, compatible with other systems.