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In this article we will talk about one very interesting type of CNC router machine, on which chair legs of your seat or balusters on the stairs you took to get somewhere where made. This is a 4-axis CNC router machine!
What is a 4-axis CNC router machine
Most routers have three axes: X, Y, and Z. From a hobby-one to a large industrial one. They may be used to manufacture a wide range of objects, from doors and kitchen facades to toys, cutting boards, and minor mechanical pieces. They are also known as three-dimensional machines. However, it is not the only type. What other machines are there?
CNC routers can have additional axes — a fourth or even fifth one! The next step is already robotic complexes, but that’s not what we will be dealing with today. Additional axes are sometimes referred to as A, B, or C.
The 4-axis CNC router machine also allows you to either rotate the workpiece around its axis or reverse the spindle itself at a new angle. With this machine, the pool of available works and orders increases; all cylindrical objects are now available to you.
The five axes of the router machine give you a new level of freedom. With such equipment, you can rotate your material almost any way. Products and details of any level of intricacy are available for you.
However, let us return to the subject.
Two types of 4-axis CNC router machine
As we stated above, there are two ways to achieve 4-axis functionality: with a rotary device or spindle modification. Let’s talk about each separately.
Rotary device
An additional rotating axle is attached to the machine. This consists of a chuck connected to a motor and a tailstock with a cylindrical tip that rotates. The workpiece is placed in this equipment and processed from all sides.
Spindel
In this case, the axis is placed on the spindle itself. As a result, the spindle can deviate to a certain angle, which is 90 degrees. This is the main disadvantage of this method.
The plus is the fact that you are not limited by the plane of the rotary device. You have at your disposal the entire plane of the workspace.
Parts of the 4-axis CNC router machine
The primary components of such a router machine will be similar to those of a standard three-axis router.
The bed is a framework, so to speak, the base of the entire system. Our machines have A-type and M-type. The difference in the thickness of the structure increased by 10 mm.
Then we have a portal through which the spindle moves along the axes. And yes, a reliable, good spindle is the heart of the machine. The spindle power determines the power of the milling processes.
It is driven by a kinematic system, which includes guides, planetary gear, belt gears, and stepper or servo motors.
The machine must also have a spindle cooling system. Air or water. It doesn’t allow it to overheat and break.
The primary distinctions are the design with a built-in turning axis and the availability of another driver for this turning. There will also be a slightly different controller, A18 rather than A11, that is compatible with the spinning gadget.
Spheres of application
The extra cutting dimension opens up new application possibilities for the CNC router. Let’s look at popular ones.
- Woodworking. This includes a wide range of tasks, from furniture to architecture. Decorative moldings or furniture parts—all round-shaped objects—are processed on the router device. Often, the 4-axis router machine is used for engraving and creating interesting shapes. Therefore, such work is sometimes called “ornamental turning work.”
- Advertising. Creating volumetric signs, letters, and other branding attributes becomes easier with an additional axis. This way, your advertisement will stand out from others, both metaphorically and literally.
- Stone and soft metal processing for various industries, such as the funeral business, souvenirs (busts, etc.), and more.
- Prototypes and models.
- Packaging.
Wattsan 4-axis CNC router machine
We have a model with a built-in rotary device, M1 1325 RD. The working area of this machine is 1300*2500, and the spindle has a power of 4.5 kW in its basic configuration.
Advantages of this 4-axis router machine compared to similar ones:
- This machine has a reliable, sturdy frame with preliminary annealing. It offers an extended service life, stability, and the ability to withstand heavy loads.
- The ball screw pair has an extended length on the spindle, allowing for the installation of the spindle with additional clearance.
- Two-phase stepper motors. They are more durable and reliable than standard ones.
- Reinforced side section of the gantry. This reduces vibrations when working at higher speeds.
- Inductive limit switches prevent the gantry from colliding with the frame.
- Planetary gearbox on all three axes. It has greater rigidity compared to belt drives, which significantly affects accuracy and allows working with very hard materials.
Conclusion
- Most often, you will see a router machine with three axes: X, Y, and Z. These range from small hobbyist models to large industrial ones and can produce most products, albeit with some limitations.
- A 4-axis router machine allows either the rotation of the workpiece around its axis or the tilting of the spindle at a new angle. With such a machine, the range of available jobs and orders increases; all cylindrical objects are now accessible to you.
- An additional rotary axis is added to the machine. This consists of a chuck connected to a motor and a tailstock with a rotating cylindrical tip. The workpiece is placed in this setup and processed from all sides.
Such 4-axis router machines are used in woodworking, advertising production, packaging, stone and soft metal processing, and many other applications.
