Key Factors to Consider When Investing in Multi-Axis CNC Machines
Multi axis CNC machines are now being used by more and more manufacturing shops for better machining capabilities. The manufacturing industry is now more focused on innovation and making complex products that will change the future in industries like aerospace, energy, medical, and defense. This hunger for innovation is the reason for the growth in demands of multi axis CNC machines. But it is very important to make sure you can buy the right multi axis CNC machine for your manufacturing shop, and in this blog, we will discuss the top features that you should consider when making a multi axis CNC machine investment.
Major Factors to Consider When Investing in Multi Axis CNC Machines:
Here are some of the major factors that you should consider before making the decision of investing in multi axis CNC machines:
1. Axis Configurations:
The first factor to consider when investing in a multi axis CNC machine is the multi axis configuration that you really need for regular work. If you get a CNC machine that has a high number of axes compared to your machining needs, then it can be overkill for your jobs.
Sometimes, simple molds can just be done with the help of 4-axis CNC machines, too, but when you are making something critical like turbine blades, then having a 5-axis CNC machine will be beneficial for you.
2. Accuracy and Precision:
The next thing you should be careful of when investing in multi axis CNC machines is the accuracy and precision that the CNC machine is going to provide. One must look for CNC machines that have high resolution encoders and high quality thermal compensation features, which help in maintaining precision during long machining runs.
High end multi axis CNC machining capabilities are known for their micron level accuracy, which will ensure that you can do intricate design machining works.
3. Control System and Software Compatibility:
The next thing one needs to check before making the multi axis CNC machine investment is the compatibility with the control system and software of the new machine for your operators. Advanced CNC machining systems will require more time and resources to be spent on training operators. You can also prioritize open architectures for better post processor flexibility.
4. Build Quality and Machine Footprint:
Multi axis machines tend to be large in size, but if you run a small machining shop, then you need to be aware of the machine footprint, as a bigger machine will kill your shop’s space, or might increase your rental bill. Also, if you are going to do complex machining works with large workpieces and also demanding materials, then you need to get a CNC machine with strong build quality so that it can handle the operations with ease.
5. Cost of Ownership and Return on Investment:
Buying a multi axis CNC machine is definitely a costly decision, so it is wiser to calculate the total cost of ownership of the machine and also the return on investment. As for small machining shops, it can be hard for the owners to gain proper ROI on a brand new machine.
So, the small to medium sized shops can go with used multi axis CNC machines or go with upgrading your old CNC machines, like Haas EC series CNC machines with multi axis capabilities.
Conclusion:
Buying a multi axis CNC machine is a calculative decision, so you need to consider several factors before making the investment decision. Sometimes you can just upgrade your old CNC machines with rotary tables to get the same features of a multi axis CNC machine.
FAQs:
1. When should a shop consider investing in a multi-axis CNC machine?
A shop should consider a multi-axis machine when parts require machining on multiple faces, complex contours, or angular features that would otherwise need several setups.
2. Is a 5-axis CNC machine always necessary for complex parts?
Not always. Some parts can be handled with 4+1 indexing machines, depending on geometry, tolerance requirements, and production volume.
3. What industries commonly use multi-axis CNC machines?
Industries such as aerospace, medical devices, automotive, energy, and precision engineering frequently use multi-axis CNC machines for complex components.
