How to Operate a 5-Axis CNC
Instructions
1
Place the raw material in the vise or fixture. On five-axis milling machines, the table may rotate, but it could be oriented flat or on its side. Make sure the part is in the vise or fixture properly before starting the cycle. If using a magnetic table, be sure that the magnet is on and that the surface of the table is thoroughly cleaned to prevent any part slippage.
2
Start the machine at the beginning. Make sure the coolant is on after the cycle starts and the rotating table spins smoothly and that the spindle moves into the proper angle for angle cuts or drilling. Operating a five-axis machine is more difficult than operating a three-axis mill, so make sure that the two extra axes are working properly as they are mechanical in motion.
3
Watch for tool clearance on angle cuts and make sure the table reorients itself properly between cuts. The Q axis is the table rotation, so carefully watch any Q axis cuts to make sure that the table is spinning properly. B axis is the spindle tilt. As an operator, you have to watch the cycle and make sure that nothing gets in the way of the spindle tilt which could cause inaccurate cuts as well as damage to tools and parts.
4
Check angle cuts while the cycle is running so adjustments can be made before removing the first part. Pause the cycle after a major angle cut is finished and make the proper measurements to make sure the angle is correct. If it is not, restart the cycle after making the proper adjustments. Use an angle plate or measure critical dimensions with a caliper to make sure all cuts are being made properly.
5
Check all the dimensions on the first part after the cycle is complete. There may be cuts that you were not able to check during the first cycle. The operator's job is to make sure that all parts coming out of the machine are cut properly. On five-axis jobs, make sure all cuts involving the B and Q axis are correct.
