Router table cnc with 4th axis

Types of Router Tables CNC with 4th Axis

The 4th axis on a CNC machine refers to an additional rotational axis that complements the standard three linear axes (X, Y, and Z). The basic definition of a router table with CNC 4th axis is a device that allows rotating objects to be precisely cut or shaped. However, the reality of what a router table with a CNC 4th axis entails is much more complex. The scroll saw, a common woodworking machine, now has advanced technology to be a more precise-cutting tool for wood-based products, such as furniture. This new technology allows furniture producers to mass-produce items efficiently and at a lower cost.

CNC machines generally utilize four-axis and five-axis systems to achieve diverse functionality. Nonetheless, the 4th axis of a CNC router implies an additional axis that offers rotation to the standard three-axis linear motion. The workpieces can be moved automatically through the rotary table without having to change or reposition the direction of the router bit. As a result of its various benefits, CNC routers with 4th rotary axes are commonly utilized in automatic processing. Some areas of application include relief engraving, cylindrical engraving, hollow cylinder carving, and groove milling among others.

Generally, rotary CNC routers with four axes are made up of the following components:

• The fourth axis commonly referred to as the rotary attachment. It is the hardware component responsible for providing the rotational motion.
• The control software program enables the user to design the desired engraving or carving pattern. After generating the desired program usually in form of a soft file, the software will then communicate the instruction directly to the CNC machine.
• The electronics and motors responsible for driving the fourth axis.
• The workpiece such as a cylinder together with the clamps and jigs responsible for holding the workpiece in position.

It is important to note that CNC router tables with rotary attachments commonly come in two different varieties; the single rotating shaft and the gearbox driven rotary axis. Despite both attachments providing similar functionality, they do so at different levels of precision and speed.

A single rotating shaft is commonly used for simple tasks and does not require high precision. On the other hand, the gearbox driven rotary axe is more advanced and delivers both high torque and precision.

Specifications and Maintenance

Specifications

• Size

  Typically, CNC routers are about 4ftx8ft in size, but they can be made larger or smaller depending on what they will be used for. Tables tend to have areas of around 4ftx4ft.

• Working Speed

  How fast something can be worked on with a table top CNC router in general is around 1,500 to 3,000 mm/min.

• Control System

  Most routers use a computer program like Mach3 or Cnc4you to control what they do, and these are usually run by a normal Windows PC. Other routers may use specific stand-alone control systems such as Syntec, which are more like the “brain” of a router and can vary in design.

• Driving System

  CNC routers have multiple ways of moving parts around. Commonly used methods like stepper motors (which move in fixed steps) and belt drives (which use belts to pull things) are both found in many tabletop and smaller models. Other devices for movement included in some designs are servomotors with smoother and continuous motions, rack and pinion systems utilizing gears to transmit motion, and linear rails where things slide on straight bars. Each method of conveying movement is chosen to help the machine be precise and reliable, with things made to fit small machines being suitable for them and those meant to be stronger designed for larger sizes.

Maintenance

Maintenance techniques are as follows:

• Use of blowers and air pumps to clean the machine. Doing this will prevent dust and debris from accumulating on the machine.
• Keep railways, wheels, and rotating parts lubricated by using a lubricating oil on the spots that are touched after the CNC has been oiled.
• A lubricant should be used to grease the rack and pinion or belt to ensure they work correctly.
• The tool should be well-maintained and cleaned periodically after use. This will ensure its longevity, accuracy, and efficiency.
• Frequent checks should be made to the router tables to see if there are any loose parts or components that are not working as they should be.
• The computer connection to the device, including the software that runs it, should be updated and checked to ensure smooth functioning.

Scenarios of router table CNCs with 4th axes

A router table CNC machine with a 4th axis is an extremely versatile tool that can be used in various industries for different applications.

• Architectural millwork and molding:

  CNC router tables are extensively used in the architectural industry to create precise moldings, trims, columns, and other millwork features. These decorative elements are usually included in the architectural design and can be made quickly and accurately with a CNC router table.

• Furniture design and fabrication:

  In the furniture-making industry, a CNC router table can cut and carve furniture components like tabletops, chair backs, legs, and others. The machine works excellently when routing intricate patterns, filigree designs, and inlays on furniture pieces. Moreover, with its ability to perform repeated tasks precisely, the CNC router table helps to improve overall production efficiency.

• Signage creation:

  A CNC router table is used to create 3D signs, wayfinding signs, dimensional signs, and other types of signage, including letters and logos. The machine allows for the making of accurate and detailed letters, shapes, and designs. It also has the capability to carve various materials to make unique and professional signage that is of high quality.

• Body and mold creation:

  In the automotive, aerospace, or entertainment industry, CNC router tables can be used to create body parts and molds. This includes routing patterns for composite materials, foam core molds, and carbon fiber, among others. The router table machine may be used in creating molds for fiberglass, injection molding, or vacuum forming.

• Prototyping and product development:

  A CNC router table can be used to quickly create prototypes for product development and testing. This includes molding, assembly, and fit checkings. The machine may also be used to develop models for various industries, including consumer goods, automotive, and electronics, to name a few.

• Custom projects and artistic creations:

  With its versatile capability, a CNC router table can be used for various custom projects, including artistic and creative works. This may include routing of sculptures, personalized designs, decorative panels, and architectural sculptures, among many others.

How to choose a 4-axis router table CNC

When choosing an AXS CNC Router Table with two or more additional rotary (4th or 5th) axes for customers, pay attention to the following:

• Build quality and safety features

  Check whether the machine's frame is made of sturdy iron castings or other materials. The gantry, rails, and beams must be strong and wear-resistant to prevent vibration during high-speed cutting, and the parts must have a precise alignment to avoid any loose or wobbly portions. Verify that the machine is equipped with emergency stop buttons, safety shields, and protective enclosures for moving parts to minimize the risks of accidents.

• Workpiece size and material compatibility

  The CNC machine should be able to work on the size and thickness of objects that will be used as raw materials for processing. The table's size and load capacity and the spindle's power would vary according to the suitability for materials like wood, acrylic, PVC, epoxide, double-color sheet, plastic, crystal, hardware, and alumina. In the case of metalworking, alloys like copper, aluminum, carbon steel, and stainless steel can be used.

• Rotary axis configuration and resolution

  Verify the type and number of rotary axes supported by the CNC router, as well as the resolution and precision of each rotary axis. For example, a customer wishing to carve a wooden pillar with intricate floral designs to be used as a temple pillar will need a high-precision rotary axis, whereas lower resolution may be acceptable while carving simpler geometrical shapes.

• Control system and software compatibility

  Ensure that the machine's control system is intuitive, user-friendly, and compatible with widely used design software. Confirm that the software allows for the easy generation of 4-axis CNC programs and provides simulation functions for toolpath verification before machining.

• CNC machine router types

  Determine whether the customer requires a desktop CNC router, a portable CNC router, or an industrial-grade router. The power and reliability will be the industrial scale, but for the desktop size, the power will be sufficient for domestic needs. A portable one can be easily transported from one place to another and are more user-friendly and less costly, but their functionalities will be limited compared to the industrial ones.

FAQ

Q1: What software works with a CNC router table?

A1: CNC routers typically use CAD/CAM software for design and programming. This involves first creating the desired object's design in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software and then translating it into a format the CNC machine can understand with CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software. There are numerous software options available, ranging from professional to semi-professional use.

Q2: Is it possible to carve with a CNC router?

A2: Yes, one of the principal purposes of a CNC router is to carve. Whether for creating intricate designs on furniture, reliefs, signage, or three-dimensional objects, a CNC router can carve materials such as wood, plastics, soft metals, and composites.

Q3: Can a CNC router be used for engraving?

A3: A CNC router is capable of engraving. By making shallow cuts into the surface of a material, a CNC router can be used to create patterns, texts, images, or decorative designs. Materials such as wood, acrylic, and soft metals are suitable for the technique.