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HKAA-professional custom CNC machining parts manufacturer with quality CNC machining centers

3-Axis And 4-Axis CNC Milling Machines

3-Axis And 4-Axis CNC Milling Machines

HKAA Has 100 3-axis and 4-axis CNC milling machines from domestic.

3-axis machining: The cutting tool direction remains constant throughout the entire cutting path. The cutting status of the tool tip cannot be perfect in real time. Usually refers to the three axes that move linearly in different directions, up and down, front and back, and left and right. The three-axis machine can only process one surface at a time, which is suitable for processing some disc parts.


4-axis machining: three axes plus a rotation axis, usually 360° rotation on the horizontal plane. But it cannot rotate at high speed. Add an axis of rotation on three axes, usually 360° in the horizontal plane. However, it cannot rotate at high speed. Suitable for processing some cardboard parts.


5-axis machining: Above the four-axis is another axis of rotation, usually 360° on a vertical surface. The five-axis machine can already be fully machined and can be clamped in one go, which can reduce clamping costs and product scratches. It is suitable for processing some holes and planes in multiple stations, as well as parts that require high processing accuracy, especially parts that require strict mold processing accuracy. The tool orientation can be optimized along the entire path while the tool moves linearly. In this way, optimal cutting conditions are maintained along the entire path.

What is the difference between 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC milling?

CNC technology has evolved to include touch screen controls, as well as CAD and CAM software run by g-code and m-code, robotic machines and multi-axis machine tools.


At HKAA Precision Machinery Hardware Manufacture, our CNC milling services revolve around state-of-the-art 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis machine tools.


When designing a CNC part, you may not have considered what type of machine your part will be machined on, but the complexity and type of geometry you can design will differ for different types of machines.Please call 0086-13537476755 to discuss your planned parts with our team or contact us online.


When it comes to machining parts, our CNC milling experts can discuss our capabilities and we can develop the best comprehensive plan for your project.


The main difference between 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC milling is the complexity of the motion in which the workpiece and tool can move relative to each other.


The more complex the motion of the two parts, the more complex the geometry of the final machined part:

Difference Between 3-Axis, 4-Axis, And 5-Axis CNC Milling
3-Axis CNC Milling

What is 3-axis CNC milling?

With three-axis machining, the tool can move in three different directions relative to the workpiece independently or simultaneously.


It can move in X, Y, Z linear directions. 3-axis CNC machining is great for sheet milling parts such as panels and housings.


If your part requires multiple sides machined, we can do it quickly and efficiently utilizing the multiple setups on our many CNC milling machines.


Many complex and practical shapes can be manufactured by 3 axis CNC milling, which is well-suited for operations like:



Milling undercut features using:


T-slot cutters / Dovetail milling cutters

Drilling / Threading holes


Cutting key slots / Cutting sharp angles

Cutting surface features

What is 4-axis CNC milling?

3-axis machining has an X-Y-Z direction, while 4-axis machining adds an additional axis of rotation called “A”. This is why 4-axis milling is called 3+1 CNC machining. The A-axis rotates the workpiece around the X-axis.


This rotation allows four sides to be machined while the part remains in the fixture, requiring only a single setup. There are two types of 4-axis milling: indexed milling and continuous milling.


Indexed 4-axis CNC machining is when the A-axis rotates without the machine cutting the workpiece. Once the correct direction of rotation is selected, the brake is applied and the mill resumes cutting.


In continuous 4-axis CNC milling, the machine can simultaneously cut material while the A-axis rotates. This enables the machining of more complex geometries such as arcs and spirals. 4-axis machining is typically used when cuts and holes are on the side of a part or on a cylinder.


By using 4-axis instead of 3-axis, you can often save time and money on your project because you don't need extra setup and a CNC mill. It is also easier for us to maintain tight tolerances on all four sides of the part if the part remains in a single setup.

4-Axis CNC Milling
5-Axis CNC Milling

What is 5-axis CNC milling?

This type of machining adds B and C axes, and 5-axis CNC mills utilize A and C axes for rotation, or B and C axes for rotation. Both the workpiece and the spindle rotate.


The two main types of 5-axis machining are 3+2 index CNC milling and continuous CNC milling. In continuous milling, the cutting tool is in X-Y-Z coordinates simultaneously with the other two axes (A and C or B and C).


This method can machine highly complex 3D shapes and curves. 3+2 indexing milling does not rotate both axes at the same time.


Instead, the rotational axes operate independently of each other, and the workpiece is rotated at an angle relative to the cutting tool.


5-axis machining allows machinists at HKAA’s shop to make parts that would normally be made using molds.


This gives us great flexibility and time savings, which we can pass on to you in the form of a lower price.


What Is The Difference Between 3-Axis, 4-Axis, And 5-Axis CNC Milling? | HKAA Factory

From prototype to production and every step in between, HKAA Factory optimizes your entire production workflow with our CNC machines and services. We are truly a one-stop shop, your single source manufacturer for everything about CNC milling. Our dedicated leadership team and experienced experts are passionate about supporting you, our client, across industries and ensuring your success.


CNC Milling machines can perform operations in 3, 4, or even 5 axes, allowing for the production of more complex parts.Due to its versatility, CNC milling is used in various industries including automotive, aerospace, medical, electronics, and more. Typical applications include engine components, mold tooling, complex mechanisms, enclosures, etc.

Do You Have Any Questions? Contact Us Now.

We can offer a one-stop station service, and support the latest in CNC machining and turning processes, can support a high level of part complexity, and provide exceptional surface finishes.  

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