Multi Axis CNC Tooling

Multiaxis Machining is a manufacturing process where computer numerically controlled tools that move in 4 or more ways are used to manufacture parts out of metal or other material by milling away excess material by water jet cutting or by laser cutting. Typical CNC tools support translation in 3axis; multiaxis machines also support rotation around one or more axes. There are now many CAM software systems available to support multiaxis machining including software that that can automatically convert 3 axis toolpaths into 5 axis toolpaths. Multiaxis machines offer several improvements over the CNC tools at the cost of increased complexity and price of the machine. The amount of work is reduced, a better surface finish is achieved and more complex parts can be manufactured. The number of axis varies from 4 to 9, each axis of movement implemented either by moving the table or the tool. The actual configuration of axis varies; therefore machines with the same number of axis can differ in the movements that can be performed.