Three-axis machining center generally refers to three axes moving linearly in different directions, and only one side can be machined. For connectors that need to process holes or grooves on many sides, it is more troublesome to process some disc parts. It belongs to the entry-level machining center and is also the most widely used at present.
A four-axis machining center is based on three axes and a rotating shaft. Generally, the horizontal plane rotates 360 degrees, but it cannot rotate at high speed. Suitable for processing some box parts. If it is necessary to drill holes on the side of the workpiece or on the curved surface of the cylinder, then four-axis NC machining is a very good choice.
The five-axis machining center adds a rotating shaft on the basis of four axes. Generally, the vertical plane rotates 360 degrees, and any surface of the workpiece except the fixed surface can be processed. Five-axis machining centers are also divided into true five-axis and false five-axis in the industry. The difference is not whether the five axes can be combined, but many fake five axes can also be combined. The fundamental difference is whether there is RTCP, that is, whether there is a machine tool with RTCP function. The tool tip can be programmed directly, regardless of the center distance of the rotating shaft. When programming, only the coordinates of the workpiece need to be considered, regardless of the swing length of the spindle and the position of the turntable. Five-axis machining center can realize all-round machining at one time, reduce clamping cost and improve machining accuracy. It is the top equipment in the field of machining at present, and of course the price is also the highest.