3축 대 4축 대 5축 CNC 밀링: 어떤 것을 선택해야 할까요?

In modern precision machining, CNC milling machines are the backbone of innovation. These versatile machines can create highly complex components with exceptional accuracy and repeatability. But here’s the catch—not all CNC mills are the same. One of the most critical differences between them lies in the number of axes they operate on. That alone can determine the type of parts you can produce, your production speed, and your overall efficiency.

Choosing between 3축, 4축 및 5축 CNC 밀링 가공기 is no easy task, especially when each brings unique advantages. To help you make the right decision, we’ll dive into what each machine type offers, compare their differences, and highlight the best applications for each. Whether you’re an engineer, manufacturer, or business owner, this guide will help you select the CNC milling machine that aligns with your production needs.

Quick Comparison: 3-Axis vs 4-Axis vs 5-Axis CNC Milling

Before going into details, let’s briefly outline the fundamental differences:

3-axis machines: Movement along the X, Y, and Z axes. Great for basic machining tasks, 2D and 2.5D parts, and cost-effective projects.
4-axis machines: Add a rotational axis (usually around X, known as the A-axis). Allows machining on multiple sides in one setup.
5-axis machines: Movement along three linear axes plus two rotational axes (A/B and C). Capable of handling the most complex parts in a single setup with unmatched precision.

3-Axis CNC Milling

작동 방식

A 3-axis CNC milling machine operates using a Cartesian coordinate system:

X-axis: Horizontal movement (left to right)
Y-axis: Horizontal movement perpendicular to X (front to back)
Z-axis: Vertical movement (up and down)

By controlling these three axes, the CNC machine can move the cutting tool along programmed paths to shape the workpiece. The process supports operations such as:

Facing (flattening surfaces)
Drilling (creating holes)
Boring (enlarging holes with precision)
Pocket milling (cutting cavities)
Contouring (machining edges and profiles)

기능

Suitable for 2D and 2.5D machining
High precision and smooth finishing
Versatile across many materials (plastic, aluminum, steel, titanium)
Cost-effective compared to advanced CNC machines

제한 사항

Limited in machining complex geometries
Requires multiple setups for parts with features on different sides
Struggles with undercuts and hidden geometries
Increased setup time for complex parts

Best Applications

Prototyping (cost-effective, fast turnaround)
Flat or simple parts
Small to medium production runs
Training and education for CNC basics

Industries That Rely on 3-Axis Milling

자동차: engine brackets, brake components
항공우주: structural panels, housings
전자 제품: casings, heat sinks
General manufacturing: wide range of industrial parts

4-Axis CNC Milling

작동 방식

A 4-axis CNC milling machine builds on 3-axis capability by adding a rotational axis—most commonly the A-axis, which rotates around the X-axis. This allows the machine to cut on multiple sides of a part without manual repositioning.

There are two main implementations:

Rotary table: Workpiece mounted on a rotating platform
Indexing head: Workpiece held in a rotating spindle

With this configuration, machining operations can be performed on the circumference of cylindrical parts, helical features, and multiple faces of a workpiece.

Capabilities & Advantages

Multi-sided machining in one setup → reduced handling time
Improved surface finish on curved surfaces
Creation of helical features (threads, spiral grooves)
Higher efficiency than 3-axis due to fewer repositioning steps
Greater accuracy by eliminating cumulative errors from multiple setups

제한 사항

Still limited in creating complex undercuts
Many machines operate in 3+1 mode, not true simultaneous 4-axis
More expensive than 3-axis in both investment and maintenance
Requires more advanced programming skills

Best Applications

Cylindrical parts (pipes, shafts, spindles)
Multi-sided parts needing machining in fewer setups
Helical geometries (threads, grooves)
Complex profiles requiring rotational cutting

Industries That Benefit from 4-Axis Milling

Medical devices: implants, surgical tools
항공우주: turbine blades, contoured structures
자동차: transmission housings, engine parts
Mold-making: molds with complex parting lines

5-Axis CNC Milling

작동 방식

A 5-axis CNC milling machine is the most advanced configuration. It combines three linear axes (X, Y, Z) with two rotational axes (A/B and C). This enables the cutting tool or workpiece to be positioned at almost any angle.

X, Y, Z → linear movement
A/B-axis → rotation around X or Y
C-axis → rotation around Z

This freedom of movement allows machining of extremely complex parts in one setup.

Types of 5-Axis Machines

3+2 axis (positional 5-axis): Uses the two rotational axes to orient the part, then locks them while machining in 3 axes.
Simultaneous 5-axis: All five axes move simultaneously, enabling the most complex and contoured surfaces.

Capabilities & Advantages

Ability to machine complex geometries (impellers, turbine blades)
Single-setup machining for highly intricate parts
Superior surface finishes due to optimal tool orientation
Extended tool life through reduced tool stress
Reduced cycle times for multi-sided machining
Ability to machine deep pockets and undercuts
Best possible part accuracy

제한 사항

High investment cost
Complex programming with steep learning curve
Greater maintenance requirements
Overkill for simple parts

Best Applications

Aerospace components: turbine blades, impellers, structural supports
Medical devices: orthopedic implants, dental prosthetics
Mold-making: intricate molds with fine detail
자동차: cylinder heads, high-performance parts
Energy sector: turbines, pump impellers
Artistic/architectural: sculptures, decorative elements

Industries That Leverage 5-Axis Milling

Aerospace and defense
Medical and dental
Automotive performance engineering
Energy and power generation
Luxury goods & design

Comparison Table: 3-Axis vs 4-Axis vs 5-Axis CNC Milling

기능	3-Axis	4-Axis	5-Axis
Axes of movement	X, Y, Z	X, Y, Z, A	X, Y, Z, A/B, C
Complexity of parts	낮음-중간	Medium–High	High–Very High
Setup time for complex parts	Long	Medium	Short
Machining of undercuts	제한적	Improved	Excellent
Multi-sided machining	Manual repositioning required	Possible in one setup	Single setup for most parts
Programming complexity	Low	Medium	높음
Machine cost	Low	Medium	높음
Ideal for small batch production	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ideal for large-scale production	Yes	Yes	Yes, with highest efficiency
Learning curve	Low	Medium	높음
Common industries	General manufacturing, automotive	Medical, aerospace, custom machining	Aerospace, medical, mold-making

Work With KingsMG to Start Your CNC Milling Projects

에서 KingsMG, we bring the world of CNC machining to your fingertips. With cutting-edge machines ranging from Fanuc 3-axis CNC, Makino 4-axis CNC, to Hermle 5-axis CNC milling centers, we can meet every production requirement with precision and speed.

Whether you’re looking to prototype a simple part, mass-produce automotive components, or manufacture intricate aerospace structures, our expert team will tailor solutions to your needs. KingsMG combines technology, experience, and innovation to ensure your CNC milling projects meet the highest standards of accuracy and efficiency.

에서 intricate custom designs 에 large-scale industrial runs, KingsMG is your trusted partner in modern CNC machining.

결론

The decision between 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC milling depends entirely on your project needs:

선택 3-axis if you want a cost-effective solution for 2D and moderately complex parts.
Go with 4-axis 필요한 경우 multi-sided machining with better efficiency at a reasonable cost.
Invest in 5-axis if your focus is on highly complex parts, aerospace-grade components, or precision-critical industries.

By understanding the capabilities, limitations, and ideal applications of each machine, you can optimize your production efficiency, part quality, and overall costs.

And when you’re ready to unlock the full potential of CNC milling, KingsMG is here to turn your vision into reality. Contact us today to start your CNC machining journey!