To meet the needs of companies that need increasingly complex parts, machine shops, and manufacturers develop ever-more sophisticated machinery. Nowhere is this more evident than with Computer Numerical Control milling, commonly known as CNC. These milling machines, including advanced 4-axis CNC milling, can produce multiple and identical parts of any size or type quickly and with even the most complicated configurations.
CNC milling machines use Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), which requires instruction files that are pre-programmed and uploaded into the operating system. These programs run the machines automatically and largely without a human operator.
How Does 4-Axis CNC Milling Work?
On any material, there are three axes—X, width, Y, depth, and Z, height. This is the basis of a 3-axis CNC milling machine. While a 3-axis can do a considerable amount of automatic machining, it has limits.
A 4-axis CNC adds the A-axis to the equation. This is a supplemental rotational axis around the X-axis. The fourth axis allows the piece to be flipped for additional material removal from one or both sides as needed. The extra rotating axis adds multiple options for a company that’s designing something new or changing something that requires this type of modification.
Benefits of Using Multi-Axis CNC Services
Multi-Axis increases options for machine shops and anyone designing and building parts and products. The process works well for multiple applications and includes key benefits such as:
- Cost-Effective Production
- Enhanced Precision and Efficiency
- Extended Tool Lifespan—The constant tilting of the tool or table in multi-axis machining maintains an optimal cutting position, significantly increasing tool lifespan and reducing replacement costs.
- Improved Tool Performance and Longevity
- Increased Part Accuracy—Multi-axis machining allows for the production of complex parts in a single setup. This streamlined approach reduces the number of processes and machines required, resulting in superior geometrical accuracy.
- Labor Costs Reduced—The automation capabilities of multi-axis machines minimize the need for manual interventions such as re-fixturing. This leads to more streamlined processes and lower labor costs.
- Mass Production Capabilities—The increased efficiency and repeatability of multi-axis machining make it ideal for mass production scenarios, allowing for consistent high-quality output at scale.
- Minimized Waste—The efficiency of multi-axis machining significantly reduces material waste compared to alternative manufacturing methods, contributing to cost savings and environmental sustainability.
- Optimized Production of Complex Parts—The additional movements provided by multi-axis machines enable the creation of intricate 3D shapes, including complex angles and arcs, that would be challenging or impossible with traditional machining methods.
- Scalability and Versatility
- Superior Surface Finish—Multi-axis machines typically utilize shorter cutting tools, which minimize vibrations during high-speed operations. This results in exceptionally smooth surface finishes, enhancing the overall quality of the final product.
For these reasons, 4-Axis CNC Milling, Secondary: Multi-Axis CNC Services are ideal for producing more complex parts for sophisticated machinery. Industries like aerospace, automotive, aviation, defense, and medical all rely on high-quality parts produced by exact machining. Multi-Axis CNC services produce those parts quickly, efficiently, and to exacting standards for them.
4-Axis CNC Milling by Brown Industries
Ensuring high-quality end products is at the heart of everything we do at Brown Industries. We combine advanced technology, skilled craftsmanship, rigorous quality control, and a commitment to continuous improvement to deliver products that meet the highest standards of excellence. We offer 4-axis CNC Milling and other multi-axis CNC services to make the parts you need, when, and exactly as needed For more information or to discuss your project needs, please contact us at (816) 231-2454.
