The Basics of 5-Axis Machining

In this video, we talk about the two additional axes in 5-axis machining and how dynamic work offsets (DWO) can simplify the setup of multiaxis jobs.

5-Axis machines completely revolutionized the machining industry by increasing the complexity of movements both the workpiece and the cutting tool can move through, relative to each other. This was made possible by adding two axes – the B and C axes – to the traditional X, Y, and Z axes. Unlike the X, Y, and Z axes, which are linear, the B and C are rotational and typically move the workpiece around a linear axis.
In particular, the B-axis rotates around the Y-axis while C-axis rotates around the Z-axis And while this axis addition might sound pretty simple, the possibilities that were opened when this new technique was introduced (back in the 50s, surprisingly prior to numerical control) were industry-changing.

5-Axis machining, however, can be tricky. One particular thing to consider is how the planes, and consequently the tool positioning, change as the workpiece shifts. In the video, Jay shows how to use dynamic work offsets (DWO) to bring the tool to its new location once the workpiece is shifted.

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