一．Core differences
1.Axis of motion and degrees of freedom
Three-axis machine tool: only three linear axes of X, Y and Z, the tool can only move in three vertical directions, and the processing range is limited by a plane or a simple three-dimensional profile.
Five-axis machine tool: on the basis of X, Y and Z, two rotation axes (such as A/B/C axis) are added, which can realize the tilt and rotation of the tool at any angle in space, and can process complex curved surfaces and special-shaped structures.
2.Processing capacity
Three-axis machine tools: suitable for milling planes, drilling, and simple contour machining (e.g. boxes, panels).
Five-axis machine tool: It can complete high-precision machining of complex geometric shapes such as impellers, propellers, and aero engine blades.
3.Precision and efficiency
Three-axis machine tool: multi-sided machining is completed by multiple clamping, which is easy to introduce repeated positioning errors.
Five-axis machine tool: multi-angle machining can be completed in one clamping, reducing error accumulation and higher accuracy (up to ±0.005mm).
4.Programming & Operation
Three-axis machines: simple programming, easy-to-use CAM software (e.g. Mastercam), low operator requirements.
Five-axis machine tools: professional CAM software (such as UG, PowerMill) is required for toolpath planning and collision detection, and the technical threshold is high.
5.cost
Three-axis machine tool: low price (100,000~1 million yuan), low maintenance cost.
Five-axis machine tools: expensive (1 million ~ 10 million yuan +), complex maintenance, need to regularly calibrate the rotating shaft.
二．respective advantages
- Advantages of three-axis CNC machines
Cost-effective: Low equipment investment and operation and maintenance costs, suitable for enterprises with limited budgets.
Easy to operate: Programming and processing processes are standardized, and the training cycle of skilled workers is short.
Strong stability: simple mechanical structure, low failure rate, suitable for long-term mass production.
Applicable Scenarios:
- Basic machining such as face milling, drilling, tapping, etc.
- Mass production of standardized parts (e.g. mobile phone cases, mold templates).
- Advantages of five-axis CNC machines
Complex machining capabilities: It can handle freeform surfaces, deep cavities, undercuts, and other geometries that cannot be completed by three-axis machines.
High accuracy and consistency: By optimizing the tool angle, the cutting vibration is reduced and the surface finish (Ra≤0.8μm) is improved.
Efficiency improvement: reduce the number of clamping and tool change time, and the machining efficiency is increased by 30%~50% compared with the three-axis.
Long tool life: Intelligently adjust the angle of the tool shaft to avoid local overcutting and prolong the service life of the tool.
Applicable Scenarios:
- Aerospace (turbine blades, fuselage frames).
- High-end molds (automotive panels, precision injection molds).
- Medical devices (artificial joints, dental implants).
Choose three axes: If the processing needs are mainly flat and simple three-dimensional, and the budget is limited.
Choose five axes: if complex surfaces, high-precision parts are involved, or the pursuit of production efficiency and process upgrades.
Summary: Three-axis machine tool is the “basic tool” of the manufacturing industry, and the five-axis machine tool is a weapon of “high-end manufacturing”, the two complement each other, and the reasonable configuration according to product demand can maximize the benefit.