What Is 4 Axis CNC Milling Machine?
In the world of precision parts machining and customization, CNC milling machines play a crucial role. Among them, the 4 axis CNC milling machine is a remarkable piece of equipment that offers enhanced capabilities compared to its counterparts. But what exactly is a 4 axis CNC milling machine?
A 4 axis CNC milling machine is an advanced computer – numerical – control (CNC) machine that has the ability to move a cutting tool or the workpiece along four axes simultaneously. In a standard setup, three of these axes are linear, typically referred to as the X, Y, and Z axes. The X – axis usually represents left – to – right movement, the Y – axis represents forward – and – backward movement, and the Z – axis represents up – and – down movement. The fourth axis is a rotational axis. This rotational axis can be either the A – axis (rotation around the X – axis), B – axis (rotation around the Y – axis), or C – axis (rotation around the Z – axis), depending on the machine design.
The addition of the rotational axis in a 4 axis CNC milling machine brings numerous benefits. Firstly, it allows for more complex geometries to be machined. For example, when manufacturing parts with curved surfaces, irregular angles, or holes that are not perpendicular to the main plane, a 4 axis machine can easily rotate the workpiece or the tool to access different areas. This leads to increased precision as the entire part can be machined in a single setup, reducing the potential for errors that might occur during multiple setups.
Secondly, it significantly boosts productivity. With the ability to rotate the workpiece, the machine can perform multiple machining operations without the need for manual re – positioning of the part. This saves a considerable amount of time, especially when dealing with large – scale production runs.

When it comes to choosing a reliable partner for 4 axis CNC milling services, GreatLight CNC Machining Factory is an outstanding option. GreatLight CNC Machining Factory, also known as Great Light Metal Tech Co., LTD., is a professional five – axis CNC machining manufacturer with advanced five – axis CNC machining equipment and production technology. Although we are discussing 4 axis machines here, the factory’s expertise in multi – axis machining is a strong indicator of its ability to handle 4 axis CNC milling with excellence.
Established in 2011 and located in Chang’an District, Dongguan City, China, the “capital of precision hardware mold processing” adjacent to Shenzhen, the factory covers approximately 7600 square meters and has 150 employees. It is equipped with 127 pieces of precision peripheral equipment, including large high – precision five – axis, four – axis, and three – axis CNC machining centers, lathes, milling machines, grinding machines, EDM machines, vacuum forming machines, SLM 3D printers, SLA 3D printers, and SLS 3D printers.
GreatLight CNC Machining Factory offers a comprehensive range of services. It focuses on the design, processing, customized production, and application of precision prototype models, providing new and old customers with precision CNC machining services (three – axis, four – axis, and five – axis machining), CNC milling services, die casting mold/metal die casting processing services, vacuum casting customization, sheet metal processing customization, stainless steel 3D printing, aluminum alloy 3D printing, titanium alloy 3D printing, mold steel 3D printing, and nearly a hundred rapid prototyping processing services and comprehensive solutions, along with one – stop surface post – processing services.
The factory has many years of experience in precision prototype model processing, with high precision (capable of processing to ±0.001mm / 0.001 In and above), a maximum processing size of 4000 mm. It also offers after – sales guarantee, free rework for quality problems, and a full refund if rework is still unsatisfactory. Moreover, GreatLight CNC Machining Factory is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer, strictly adhering to ISO quality standards. This means its production lines utilize advanced technology to ensure precision and accuracy in manufacturing. With in – house precision measurement and testing equipment, it can verify that all materials and parts meet the clients’ specifications.
In conclusion, understanding what a 4 axis CNC milling machine is crucial for those in the precision parts machining and customization field. And when looking for a dependable partner for 4 axis CNC milling services, GreatLight CNC Machining Factory stands out due to its advanced equipment, comprehensive services, high – precision capabilities, and strict quality control. Whether you need complex parts manufactured from 3D designs or finished products for high – end conference presentations, this factory can quickly produce prototypes and parts within days using its advanced 4 axis and other CNC machining technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What industries can benefit from 4 axis CNC milling machines?
A: Many industries can benefit from 4 axis CNC milling machines. This includes the automotive industry for manufacturing engine components, aerospace for creating complex airframe parts, medical for producing precision surgical instruments, and consumer electronics for making intricate casings and parts.
Q2: How does a 4 axis CNC milling machine differ from a 3 axis one?
A: A 3 axis CNC milling machine can move the cutting tool or workpiece along the X, Y, and Z linear axes. In contrast, a 4 axis CNC milling machine has an additional rotational axis, which allows for more complex geometries to be machined in a single setup and increases the precision and productivity of the machining process.

Q3: What materials can GreatLight CNC Machining Factory process with its 4 axis CNC milling machines?
A: Most materials can be quickly customized and processed at GreatLight CNC Machining Factory. This includes metals such as aluminum, steel, titanium, and brass, as well as various plastics and composite materials.
Q4: How long does it usually take for GreatLight CNC Machining Factory to complete a 4 axis CNC milling project?
A: The time to complete a project depends on the complexity and size of the parts. However, the factory can quickly produce prototypes and parts within days using its advanced 4 axis and other CNC machining technologies. For more detailed timelines, it is recommended to consult the factory directly with the specific project requirements.

Q5: What are the quality control measures in place at GreatLight CNC Machining Factory during 4 axis CNC milling?
A: GreatLight CNC Machining Factory is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer. It has in – house precision measurement and testing equipment to verify that all materials and parts meet the clients’ specifications. In case of quality problems, it offers free rework, and if the rework is still unsatisfactory, a full refund is provided.





























