Number of CNC axis's
Number of CNC axis's
(OP)
What does it mean when a CNC machine has 2,3,4,5 axis's? I have some machining work to be done and as I look around for a vendor to do it I see this alot....
Also, I see "live tool" alot, does this mean that the machine can select the bits as it is needed instead of the operator having to change them out?
Thanks,
Bryan
Also, I see "live tool" alot, does this mean that the machine can select the bits as it is needed instead of the operator having to change them out?
Thanks,
Bryan





RE: Number of CNC axis's
What should O look for in a vendor to do this work, Most parts will be complex shaped aluminum and small steel parts.
Thanks,
Bryan
RE: Number of CNC axis's
The forth axis is a rotation of the X-axis side to side and the fifth axis is a rotation of the Y-axis front to back.
I believe a “live tool” means the machine rotates the head rather than it being a manual operation as it is on a turret mill.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
3 axis=Basic mill. "X","Y", and "Z"
4th axis would be an indexing head
5th axis would be an indexing head that can pivot up/down.
There are multi-axis mills that the spindle can twist and turn in several directions. Used in things like CNC porting of cylinder heads.
Live tools on a lathe means a mill/drill head can be used to drill/tap bolt hole circles in the OD or face. Or mill simple(or not so simple) shapes on a lathe. I use a Mazak 30MS to make all kinds of strange shapes, squares, triangles, etc.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
Typical milling machines are 3 axis, the tool has up and down movement, the table can move the part side to side and back and forh.
Some CNC Machining Centers with more than 3 axis can have a roatary as stated by jpete, but some will have an additonal movement of the tool axis or table other than a traditional rotary indexing.
Live Tools can eliminate extra operations for your parts, for instance a shaft with a hole thru the side. This part can be turned in a lathe and then normally require a secondary operartion to add the hole on the side via a different machine. With live tooling it is all complete in one operation.
Complex shape is pretty vague, more info would be helpful in pointing you in the right direction. Long twisted curved surfaces generally require more than 3 axis machining. A picture or comparison to something would be nice.
Fill what's empty. Empty what's full. And scratch where it itches.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
There would be other parts that would need to be machined as well but not as complex.
If I can find a pick of a bare reciever I will post it for comments. Right now, I guess you could say I am doing a feasibility study or sorts, trying to see if I can have it made at a price = or lesser than current pricing.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
Sounds like it could be accomplished just fine on a 3 axis. I would send out plenty of RFQ's.
As for a CNC Readable file, you are probably going to be asked for a dimensioned drawing from most places. I would look for small job shops that take pride in handling the unusual projects, they may be more inclined to working directly with you on the project. Larger more high volume shops may just say send us a drawing we will get you the part made for $X.
It may be in your interest to seek help from an engineer or toolmaker to help get this accomplished. This may save you money in the end, what some people consider "exact" or "complex" may be wide open and simple to those in the trade. The more complex and exact you require for the part the more it will cost you, an mech designer or toolmaker could easily help you determine the requirements for the part based on form - fit - function. These are the three big considerations in designing a cost effective product or part.
Good luck with your project it sounds like it will be fun and exciting.
Fill what's empty. Empty what's full. And scratch where it itches.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
Where do I go to send out RFQs? I am all new to this stuff but not to the firearms area. How do I find good small shops that are reputable? I have found plenty of bigger shops on-line. Where would I have a drawing of the part made?
As one part would be considered the actual firearm it would have to be sent through a dealer whereever it went and I want to lessen the amount of times it changes hands. I don't o'l Joe Bob at the corner shop to be resposible for something that would cost a great amount ot replace....
You're right though, my idea of complex may be quite simple to many here. Not being in this field and looking at what would have to be made makes my head hurt thinking about it.
Is there a place online that such smaller shops advertise on?
RE: Number of CNC axis's
You may be surprised to the value of items that probably pass through olJoe Bobs hands everyday. Most small places that will get involved in such projects take great pride in specialized work, it is usually their lively hood.
As for getting a drawing, there are many options, alot of designers freelance and will do cad work for an hourly rate. Go to the machine shops first, some may offer the service. Scour the internet, freelance designers, mech designers through google should turn up some stuff. You may catch someone just starting out that would do it for a low fee just to be able to get the work on the resume.
You may want to tinker around at [link http://www.inventorbase.com/forums/]Inventor Base [/url]. There are probably more people in your situation there that can help you get started. You may find stories similar to yours and gain knowledge from others experience.
Fill what's empty. Empty what's full. And scratch where it itches.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
As others have said small shops tend to specialise and will probably offer a better tailored service, ask around and good luck.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
Fill what's empty. Empty what's full. And scratch where it itches.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
RE: Number of CNC axis's
I dont think youll find too many shops that will attempt this without clear definition. Mostly for liability reasons. Altough you can have a company "reverse engineer" the part and create the drawings for you. Just depends on your capital and how serious you are about making the part or parts. Let us know how you made out and where your located. Might be able to help with people in your area.
Good Luck
Quote: "Its not what you know, its who you know" - anybody trying to find a decent job
RE: Number of CNC axis's
RE: Number of CNC axis's
Fill what's empty. Empty what's full. And scratch where it itches.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
just let them copy what ya got.
And more than likely to productively make that sorta part, a 4 axis machining center would do.
It will basicly spin the part around so all sides can be machined. You could locate ie hold the part at the area where the barrel would be attached, and that would be the last area to be machined. It would be a very simple job with the correct machine.
RE: Number of CNC axis's
People that are saying you HAVE to have a fully dimensioned set of drawings are living in the past; use technology as a friend not an enemy, good luck.
http://www.crdm.co.uk/index.htm
RE: Number of CNC axis's
You guys rock.
SorryOciffer