The number of axes on a CNC machine determines the type of work it can do, the level of detail it can cut, and the workpiece locations it can manipulate. So what does this all mean? The following provides a better explanation of the differences between a 3 axis and 4 axis CNC machines.

 

The main difference between 3-axis and 4-axis machining is the complexity of the movement both the workpiece and the cutting tool can move through, relative to each other.

 

3 axis CNC Router Machine

3 axis machining is the simplest and most common type of machining. The workpiece is fixed in a single position, and the spindle can move in the X, Y and Z linear directions. This is suitable for parts that do not require a lot of depth and detail, and it is also widely used for flat engraving and cutting plates.

While it is a more basic machining process, 3-axis machining may be ideal for your machining project depending on the size of your production run, the workpiece requirements, accuracy and finish constraints, materials used and your holding capabilities.

 

4 axis CNC Router Machine

4-axis milling involves the same processes involved in 3-axis machining, where a cutting tool is used to remove material from a piece to create the desired shape and profile. However, in the case of 4-axes machining, milling is performed on an additional axis. A 4-axis CNC machine operates on the X,Y and Z axes like a 3-axis machine, but it also includes rotation around the X-axis, which is called the A-axis. This is the 4th axis that’s added to our machining process. 4 axis machining is multifunctional and can be used for engraving curved surfaces.

Acctek 4 axis cnc router adopts heavy-duty frame and gantry structure, and the machine body is more sturdy. The spindle can be rotated 180 degrees, so that the cnc router can handle flat engraving and three-dimensional processing. The machine specifications can be customized according to your actual processing needs.