5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs 3 Axis Vertical Machining Center？

By now, you'll likely be aware of how much we love CNC (computer numerical control) machines here at Xometry. They've made otherwise arduous manual manufacturing processes, like cutting, drilling, and turning, practically effortless via automation. With CNC machining, almost everything is computerized, so these processes are more accurate than manual methods, resulting in higher-quality parts. Most CNC machines are either 3- or 5-axis, and, in this article, we'll look at their differences and what they're each good for.

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3-Axis CNC Machining

A 3-axis CNC machine, such as a lathe, mill, or machine tool center, moves its tool (whether it's a cutter, drill, or mill) along the X (left to right), Y (front to back), and Z (up and down) axes. More specifically, it can move either horizontally (X-Y axes) or vertically (Z axis) to control the cutting depth. This is what a 3-axis CNC machine looks like:

This type of machine can cut and plane to specific depths, depending on the tool used and the material being worked on. Its limited range of motion and the fact that it can't automatically rotate the workpiece make it best for making simpler parts with straightforward shapes and designs and minimal details. These machines are best for making 2D and 2.5D parts and shorter production runs, and they're reasonably priced, making them ideal for startups or small to medium-sized businesses. 

5-Axis CNC Machining

As well as left'right, front'back, and up'down, a 5-axis CNC machine has two more movements up its sleeve: it can also rotate its tool around the other two axes (A and B). You can see how the process works in the diagram below.

With a full five-axis range of motion, these machines can work at multiple angles to precisely make complex and intricate parts with smooth surfaces, angles, and contours. They can also perform continuous milling, which saves a lot of time, and don't need any manual intervention as they rotate the workpiece automatically. These high-tech CNC and milling machines or routers can make turbine blades, molds, and impellers, such as the one in the below image.

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In the metal fabrication industry, milling is one of the most popular processes being used today. offering operators a method for expertly cutting and shaping rolled steel. After careful studies by shop owners, they believed the only way to survive and stay competitive in the industry aside from bringing the cost down is to have the flexibility and capability in their operation.

Generally, a CNC vertical machining center (VMC) is the best solution. It eliminates the need for workers to flip the prototype stock material and allows you to cut all sides without the need for manual intervention. Fully automated cuts are generally more accurate than what is possible with manual inputs, making them a wise investment that pays for itself over and over again for metal fabrication shops. Their lower upfront costs usually mean that production cost savings are passed onto customers. It is user-friendly too, making programming simple. Operators can spend less time in setting up and programming and more time ensuring that the specs of your project are completed with great results. Here are the top reasons to buy a vertical machining center.

• Fast and easy set up

  Along with the simplicity of programming, ease of machine set up can be a huge advantage to a job shop. Programming is straightforward, and machinists will likely be able to learn a new machine quickly. It's a quick setup for prototyping and/or full-scale production. Along with the ease of programming, the simplicity of a VMC makes set up quick and easy. Lastly, shop owners and operators require less floor space for a VMC.

• Low initial cost

  Vertical Machining Centers are a very cost-effective machine to add to your arsenal. They have the ability to add features and so many more productive attachments. There are different sizes, brands, and capabilities that carry a wide range of price tags. In general, a new machine will cost the buyer about one-third of what they could expect to spend on a similar horizontal machine and most shops could still install at least two vertical machining centers for less than the cost of a single horizontal machining center. VMC's are better to invest in when you are just starting your business and you have limited capital or your funds for investment are tight, and if you're working with small quantities and you change jobs frequently.

• Easy to Operate

  Generally, CNC Machinery is a mill with a tool changer plus an automated system. Programming is not difficult and can be taught without a huge learning curve. Therefore, machinists are able to learn how to use VMCs relatively easy.

• High demand

  Vertical machining centers are the most popular tool in manufacturing. There is a huge demand in this type of machine. Most machining shops like to buy used machines to help save and cut costs. So once the job is done, you can easily trade or sell your machine so it doesn't just take up space in your shop.

  If you want to learn more, please visit our website 3 Axis Vertical Machining Center.