Originally written in 2019 for Okuma America
You can find a link to the full formatted guide on Okuma's website: https://www.okuma.com/5-axis-machining-guide-1
SAMPLE PULLED FROM 5-AXIS MACHINING GUIDE:
The machining industry is ever evolving; it ebbs and flows with the market’s needs. What remains on a steady incline is the need for speed, capacity, accuracy, skilled labor and reduction of human error, regardless of industry or shop size. As technology advances, demand for complex parts at a fast pace is higher than ever.
New machine technologies are born with the above needs in mind, especially 5-axis technologies. Whether or not you’re new to 5-axis, or maybe machining in general, we’re here to relieve the complexity that tends to revolve around 5-axis operations, and to reveal how 5-axis can make your shop run as efficiently as possible with an incredible ROI.
A 5-axis machine allows tools to move simultaneously around 5 axes of an object.
5-Axis machines utilize the typical X, Y and Z axes in conjunction with the A and B axes so that your tools can get to five sides of a part, no extra turning or setup required.
If you’ve never seen 5-axis in motion, try this: Hold an object from the bottom, out in front of you. Point a pen down vertically above the object. While tipping the object left and right, forward and backward (the A and B axes), simultaneously move the pen up, down, side to side, in and out (the X, Y and Z axes).
While deeply simplified, this can begin to lend insight to the 5-axis process. You can also check out our YouTube channel to view more in-depth videos of the 5-axis process and the different products it can create, such as Darth Vader.
Working on a 5-axis machine minimizes setups, allows for faster cycle time, produces less scrap, increases spindle up time and, contrary to popular belief, actually lessens the need for highly trained individuals, giving your shop the ability to open its possibilities.
SECTION ONE: THE HISTORY OF 5-AXIS
For years, machine owners have been adding additional components to upgrade their machine’s efficiency and accuracy. While 5-axis may be a relatively new concept for some shops, using simultaneous multiple axes can be traced back to the late 50’s and early 60’s. According to machine industry historian, Golden E. Herrin, 5-axis machining was viewed as a development beyond the realm of reality, especially by those who were already attempting to include prismatic parts, rotary table and trunnions in order to maneuver outside the traditional X, Y and Z axes.
Over the last few decades, 5-axis advancements have made 5-axis machining centers as much of a reality as any vertical or horizontal machining center.
Even from the start, the 5-axis process was so impressive, it quickly developed into a crucial part of the US military, air force and aerospace industries; and as technology and hardware progressed, its functions got easier to use, making the process more accessible. But, even though 5-axis has been a game-changer across the CNC spectrum for over half a century, there are still reservations in many of US shops.
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