Increasing Productivity with a 4th Axis CNC Solution for Workholding

WHAT IS 4-AXIS MACHINING?

Like any standard 3-axis vertical machining center, 4-axis vertical machining centers use a subtractive manufacturing process by use of a cutting tool. This cutting tool removes metal or other materials from a workpiece until it reaches the geometry intended.

3-axis machining uses 3-axes of movement:

• X-axis is movement from “left” to “right”
• Y-axis is movement “forward” and “backward”
• Z-axis is movement “up” and “down”
  
  

4-axis machining includes the standard X, Y, Z axes, but adds rotation to the process. The new axis of rotation occurs about the X-axis and is often referred to as the A-axis.

WHY INTEGRATE A 4-AXIS SOLUTION?

Faster Part Production

Every time a part is handled, production time is lost—there is also a risk of scraping or marring the part with each interaction. By integrating 4th axis machining, an operator no longer has to unclamp and move the workpiece multiple times, as all but one side of the part can now be machined in a single cycle. This ensures the total production time per completed part is reduced due to multiple machining operations being completed in a single cycle.

Better Part Accuracy

By reducing the number of operations, tolerance stack-up can be minimized. This results in improved part accuracy and decreased scrap production.

Lowered Labor Rate
With a 4-axis machining solution, your machine operators become much more productive. Because each operation is now completed in a single cycle, total cycle times become longer, allowing your operators to take on additional tasks throughout the shop. This method of lean manufacturing results in higher production capacity and lowered labor costs.

LOOKING FOR A COMPLETE 4th AXIS WORKHOLDING SOLUTION?

Every manufacturer requires repeatable, precise, and versatile clamping solutions.  With the combination of the patented AMROK Centering Dovetail Vises (CDV) and rock-solid support from Martin trunnion tables, 4th axis machining provides the flexibility your shop needs. 

Exemplary Performance at Every Angle

Because trunnion tables offer full 360-degree rotation, machining multiple sides of a part in a single clamping operation becomes possible. This offers a higher degree of accuracy, speed, and enables more complex machining operations.
The patented AMROK CDV workholding vises provide a standardized, precise, and versatile clamping solution for 4th axis machining operations.

Multiple Jaw Variations

Various jaw width, heights, and angles are offered with every CDV variation to increase workpiece clamping flexibility and maximize load distribution and clamping power. 

Always Optimal

Each CDV locates off of a standard 2” grid system with the ability to locate on- and off-center, enabling versatile setups on precision grids while holding the tightest tolerances in the industry. The CDV 2” spread allows for between-center, on-center, Bridgeport, and t-slot mounting with no additional sub-plate or tombstone mounting. 

Built for Variable Part Length

Parts being machined on a CDV can be located on moveable precision locating pins. The pins can be placed in two-inch increments to fit a variety of workpiece size combinations.

Let’s Talk Solutions

For turnkey workholding solutions, visit us at amrok.com or give us a call at +1 815-962-6076. 

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