Knowledge of five-axis machining centers

The machine tool market is flooded with countless five-axis machining centers, with a multitude of models akin to stars in the sky.

Is purchasing a machining center giving you a headache? To alleviate your pain, we've compiled some key points to consider when buying a five-axis machining center that you won't want to miss!

1. Machine Tool Stiffness

Machine tool stiffness directly impacts productivity and machining accuracy. The machining speed of a machining center is significantly higher than that of a conventional machine tool of the same specification, and its motor power is also higher. Therefore, the structural design stiffness of a machining center is much higher than that of a conventional machine tool. The maximum allowable torque, power, axial force, and feed force should be verified based on the values provided by the manufacturer. To achieve high stiffness in the machine tool, it is often necessary to choose a machine tool with specifications 1 to 2 sizes larger than the part being machined, rather than being limited to the part size.

1. CNC Precision

CNC precision has a decisive impact on machining quality. It's important to note that the concepts of machining accuracy and machine tool accuracy are different. It is incorrect to assume that the positional accuracy stated in the manufacturer's samples or product certificates represents the machining accuracy of the machine tool. The positional accuracy indicated on the samples or certificates refers to the accuracy of the machine tool itself, while machining accuracy is the sum of errors generated by various factors in the entire process system, including the allowable errors of the machine tool itself. When selecting a model, the process capability index (kp) evaluation method can be used as a basis for choosing the precision type. Generally, the calculated result should be greater than 1.33.

1. Functions of the CNC System

The functions of the CNC system can be divided into basic functions and optional functions. Basic functions must be provided, while optional functions are only provided by the manufacturer when selected by the user and require separate additions, often at a higher cost. The functions of the CNC system must be selected based on the performance requirements of the machine tool. When ordering, all necessary functions should not be omitted, and waste due to low utilization rates should be avoided. Attention should also be paid to the interrelationships between these functions.

Among the optional CNC systems, the performance of five-axis machining centers varies greatly, with price differences of several times. Selection should be based on needs, and blindly pursuing high-end options should be avoided to prevent waste. When selecting multiple machine tools, it is advisable to use the same CNC system from the same manufacturer to facilitate operation, programming, and maintenance.

Additional Points:

1. The safety operating procedures for the machining center must be followed.

2. Protective equipment and sleeves should be worn before starting work. Scarves, gloves, ties, and aprons should not be worn. Female workers should tie up their hair if wearing a hat.

3. Before starting, check the correctness of tool compensation, machine zero, and workpiece zero.

4. The relative positions of the buttons should meet the operational requirements. Carefully write and input the CNC program.

5. Check the working status of the protection, insurance, signals, positioning, mechanical transmission, electrical, hydraulic, and digital display systems on the equipment. Cutting can only be performed under all normal conditions.

6. (Additional point left incomplete in the original text, so no translation provided for this part.)