Efficient 4 Axis CNC Machining Services

Advantages of 4-Axis CNC Machining

The world’s first CNC machining center that dares to provide free samples!

4-axis CNC machining strikes a balance between capability and cost, making it ideal for projects that need rotational movement without the extreme complexity of 5-axis work.

✅ Custom manufacturing of metal parts from prototyping to production.

✅ Prototype design and mass production within 3-5 days.

✅ 4 Axis CNC machining and forming of precision metal parts.

✅ Great Light CNC Machining ISO 9001 Certified Factory.

✅ ±0.001mm and above precision requirements can be processed.

High Efficiency & Productivity

4-axis machining allows for the machining of multiple faces of a part without manual repositioning, which reduces production time. This can result in faster turnaround times for projects that do not require full 5-axis capabilities.

30% Increase In Efficiency

Cost-Effectiveness

4-axis CNC machines are generally more affordable while still providing more flexibility than 3-axis machines. This makes them a cost-effective option for jobs that need rotation but not extreme complexity.

Cost Reduction Of 30%

Ideal for Symmetrical

4-axis machines excel at creating cylindrical parts and machining features around the circumference.

Swiss Lathes 12+

Better Accuracy Than 3-Axis

Since a 4-axis machine can rotate the workpiece to access different faces, it offers than a 3-axis machine for parts with multiple features on different sides.

± 0.001 Minimum Tolerance (mm)

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About Great Light

Your Parts Manufacturing Partner

One of the Best Rapid Prototyping Companies from China, Great Light CNC Machining Center is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer and is an excellent choice for custom metal and plastic parts. Whether you need a complex part made from a 3D design or a finished product for a high-level conference presentation, we can quickly produce prototypes and parts in a matter of days using 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machining.

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Why Choose us

Our CNC Machining Parts Can Do Anything

We use CNC to quickly process small and large-volume production orders for clients in a variety of industries: industrial design, automotive parts, robotic parts, prototypes, medical devices, aerospace, defense, electronics, hardware startups, industrial automation, machinery, marine, and more.

One-stop CNC machining services

Gallery of Oem Parts CNC Machining

With years of manufacturing know-how, Great Light has covered you for CNC Machining and low-volume manufacturing.

One-stop post-processing service

CNC Milling Surface Finishes

Achieve the perfect finish with our range of surface treatments. Whether you require anodizing, plating, or painting, we ensure your parts meet both aesthetic and functional specifications.

Over 100+ People Trust Us

Here’s what our satisfied customers have to say about how we met their needs, Their words speak louder than ours.

Impressed by the fast delivery and top-quality CNC parts! Your team's efficiency and personalized service were outstanding. Excited for future collaborations!

John Doe

Designer

Thrilled with the fast CNC production and top-notch parts! Excellent service and flawless surface finishes. Great job!

Mellisa Doe

Business Owner

The level of expertise of their engineers and their ability to complete these projects in a short period of time is commendable and worthy of recognition.

Chris M.

Designer

The results were outstanding. We were manufacturing a large housing component for an aerospace application with extremely complex hole geometry.

Nina K.

Business Owner

Had a great experience with GreatLight! Alice’s communication and dedication were excellent, and the product quality exceeded expectations. Highly recommend!

Sam Andrew

Businessman

They handled all aspects of this turnkey project quickly, professionally, and cost-effectively. We look forward to working with them again on future projects.

Lisa Theux

Business Owner

This is the most professional CNC service provider I have ever worked with and it has been a pleasure to work with them since day one. I have been in procurement for over 15 years and have worked on many projects with suppliers from all over the world.

Jake H.

Business Owner

I have been with them from the beginning and have seen this progress and I am very satisfied. Thanks again to all of you and everyone else behind the scenes for doing a great job.

Sophie G.

Business Owner

Change your supplier today! Explore our CNC machining solutions

Great Light can handle your CNC machining whether you need a few parts or over 10,000 end-use units. Check out the variety of custom CNC services we offer to take your designs from concept to reality quickly and accurately.

About 4-axis General Questions

1. What are your 4-axis CNC machining capabilities?

Our own internal processing capabilities: Five-Axis CNC 16 Units, Four-Axis CNC 12 Units, Three-Axis CNC 27 Units, CNC Milling & Turning 16 Units. If you have larger processing needs, we can also meet them.

2. What's 4-axis CNC Machining?

3. Why Choose 4-axis CNC Machining?

4. What's the 4-axis CNC Machining Process?

5. What's the Difference Between 3D Printing and 4-axis CNC Machining?

6. What is the typical cost of a 4-axis CNC machined part?

7. What are the maximum size ranges of your machine travel?

8. What kind of surface finish does 4-axis CNC machining leave?

9. How does precision 4-axis CNC machining improve product quality?

Precision 4-axis CNC machining improves product quality by leveraging its advanced capabilities to achieve high accuracy, consistent performance, and intricate detailing. Here’s how it enhances product quality:

1. Enhanced Accuracy and Tolerances

Tight Tolerances: Precision 4-axis CNC machining achieves tolerances as tight as ±0.001 inches, ensuring parts fit perfectly in assemblies.
Consistency: Automated control ensures identical parts are produced, reducing variation in mass production.

2. Superior Surface Finish

Smooth surface finishes reduce friction, improve aesthetics, and eliminate the need for extensive post-processing, contributing to higher-quality components.

3. Improved Geometrical Complexity

Multi-Side Machining: The 4th axis enables rotation of the workpiece, allowing for machining complex designs without manual repositioning, which minimizes errors and increases precision.
Intricate Features: Delivers precise holes, threads, contours, and undercuts for advanced designs.

4. Better Material Utilization

Precise cutting reduces waste and ensures efficient use of raw materials, lowering costs while maintaining high-quality output.

5. Durability and Performance

High Structural Integrity: Precision machining eliminates material stress or weak points, ensuring parts can withstand demanding conditions.
Reliability: CNC-machined parts are less prone to defects, leading to longer-lasting products.

6. Application in Critical Industries

Aerospace & Automotive: High precision ensures safety-critical parts meet rigorous standards.
Medical Devices: Guarantees biocompatibility and functionality in devices like implants or surgical tools.

7. Reduced Post-Processing

The high precision achieved during machining minimizes the need for secondary processes, speeding up production while maintaining quality.

Conclusion: Precision 4-axis CNC machining delivers unparalleled accuracy, efficiency, and reliability, leading to higher-quality products suitable for even the most demanding applications.

10. What materials are suitable for precision 4-axis CNC machining?

Precision 4-axis CNC machining is compatible with a wide range of materials, making it highly versatile. The material choice depends on the application, desired properties, and machinability. Here’s an overview of suitable materials:

1. Metals

Aluminum

Properties: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, highly machinable.
Applications: Aerospace, automotive, electronics, and prototypes.

Stainless Steel

Properties: High strength, corrosion-resistant, durable.
Applications: Medical devices, automotive parts, and food industry equipment.

Titanium

Properties: High strength-to-weight ratio, biocompatibility, corrosion resistance.
Applications: Aerospace, medical implants, and high-performance applications.

Brass

Properties: Excellent machinability, corrosion-resistant, good thermal conductivity.
Applications: Electrical components, plumbing fittings, and decorative parts.

Copper

Properties: High electrical and thermal conductivity.
Applications: Electrical connectors, heat exchangers, and precision components.

Tool Steel

Properties: High hardness, wear resistance.
Applications: Cutting tools, molds, and dies.

Alloys (e.g., Inconel, Hastelloy)

Properties: High temperature and corrosion resistance.
Applications: Aerospace, energy, and chemical industries.

2. Plastics

Delrin (POM)

Properties: High stiffness, low friction, good machinability.
Applications: Gears, bushings, and precision mechanical components.

Acrylic

Properties: Transparent, lightweight, weather-resistant.
Applications: Display cases, lenses, and signs.

Nylon

Properties: Durable, wear-resistant, low friction.
Applications: Bearings, gears, and fasteners.

Polycarbonate

Properties: Impact-resistant, transparent.
Applications: Safety equipment, lenses, and electronics.

PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)

Properties: High heat resistance, strong, chemical resistant.
Applications: Aerospace, medical implants, and electrical insulation.

3. Composites

Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and strong, suitable for high-performance applications like aerospace and sports equipment.
Fiberglass: Durable and cost-effective, used for automotive and industrial parts.

Material Selection Tips

Application Requirements: Consider properties like strength, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance.
Machinability: Some materials, like titanium or hardened steel, require advanced tools and slower machining speeds.
Surface Finish Needs: Softer materials like aluminum yield smoother finishes, while harder materials may need post-processing.

Conclusion: Precision 4-axis CNC machining can handle metals, plastics, and composites, making it suitable for a wide array of industries, from aerospace to medical devices. The material choice should align with the design, performance, and cost requirements of the specific application.

11. Why choose 4-axis CNC machining for high-volume production?

4-axis CNC machining is an excellent choice for high-volume production due to its ability to combine speed, precision, and efficiency while maintaining consistent quality. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Increased Production Efficiency

Simultaneous Multi-Side Machining: The 4th axis allows rotation of the workpiece, reducing the need for manual repositioning and cutting down cycle times.
Automation: Automated processes minimize operator intervention, leading to faster and more reliable production.

2. Consistent Precision

Tight Tolerances: Maintains uniformity across large batches, ensuring every part meets the same high-quality standards.
Error Reduction: CNC automation eliminates human errors often encountered in manual machining.

3. Versatility in Design and Complexity

Complex Geometries: Easily handles intricate designs, making it suitable for parts requiring precision on multiple sides or angles.
Flexibility: Accommodates a variety of materials and designs without significant changes to tooling or setups.

4. Cost-Effectiveness for Large Volumes

Reduced Setup Times: Multi-axis capability consolidates setups, lowering the cost per unit for large production runs.
Material Efficiency: Precision machining reduces waste, maximizing material usage and reducing costs.

5. Enhanced Surface Quality

Produces high-quality surface finishes, reducing or eliminating the need for post-processing, saving time and costs.

6. Reliability and Scalability

Reliability: CNC machines can run continuously, maintaining output rates and ensuring delivery schedules for large orders.
Scalability: Easily accommodates increasing demand by replicating the same setup for additional production.

7. Industry Applications

Aerospace: High-precision components with tight tolerances for engines or structural parts.
Automotive: Large-scale production of intricate parts like gearboxes and chassis components.
Medical: Consistent quality in implants and surgical tools where precision is critical.

Conclusion: Choosing 4-axis CNC machining for high-volume production ensures efficient, accurate, and cost-effective manufacturing, ideal for industries requiring precision and scalability without compromising quality.

12. How does 4-axis CNC machining ensure complex part geometries?

4-axis CNC machining ensures complex part geometries through its advanced multi-axis capabilities, allowing intricate and precise manufacturing that would be challenging or impossible with traditional methods. Here’s how it works:

1. Multi-Side Machining

The 4th axis enables the workpiece to rotate (often around the X or Y axis), providing access to multiple sides of the part without manual repositioning.
This capability allows for machining features such as holes, slots, and contours at various angles in a single setup.

2. Enhanced Tool Reach

With the rotational axis, tools can approach the part from more angles, enabling the creation of undercuts, curved surfaces, and other geometries that would otherwise be inaccessible.

3. Precise Alignment and Continuity

Automated control ensures precise positioning of the part during rotation, maintaining continuity between different features and ensuring tight tolerances across all dimensions.

4. Optimized Tool Paths

Advanced CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software programs tool paths that account for the rotational movements of the 4th axis, enabling efficient machining of complex shapes like helical patterns or intricate contours.

5. Integration of Multiple Processes

Combines operations like drilling, milling, and cutting into a single workflow, reducing the risk of misalignment and achieving seamless integration of complex features.

6. Applications of Complex Geometries

Aerospace: Components like turbine blades or engine parts with intricate curves and pockets.
Automotive: Gearboxes, camshafts, and other parts with complex profiles.
Medical Devices: Precision surgical tools and implants requiring tight tolerances and unique shapes.

7. Efficiency in Handling Irregular Shapes

The 4-axis capability excels in machining irregular or asymmetrical parts, maintaining precision without additional setups or fixtures.

Conclusion

By combining rotational movement with linear tool paths, 4-axis CNC machining offers unmatched flexibility and precision for creating complex part geometries. It reduces errors, improves efficiency, and meets the demands of modern industries requiring intricate designs.

13. What are the benefits of using 4-axis CNC machining over manual processes?

4-axis CNC machining offers numerous benefits over manual processes, especially when it comes to precision, efficiency, and complexity. Here's how it outperforms manual machining:

1. Precision and Accuracy

Tighter Tolerances: CNC machining can achieve tolerances as tight as ±0.001 inches, far beyond the capability of manual operations.
Consistent Quality: Every part produced is identical, reducing variability that can arise from manual handling.

2. Increased Efficiency

Automation: Once programmed, CNC machines operate autonomously, freeing operators for other tasks and increasing productivity.
Multi-Side Machining: The 4th axis allows for machining multiple sides of a workpiece in one setup, eliminating the need for repositioning and saving time.

3. Complex Geometries

Advanced Capabilities: The 4th axis provides rotational movement, enabling the creation of intricate designs, undercuts, and curved surfaces that are impossible or highly time-consuming to achieve manually.
Reduced Setup: Complex features can be machined in fewer setups, reducing the risk of errors.

4. Scalability

High-Volume Production: CNC machines can run continuously for large batches, maintaining consistent quality, which is difficult to achieve manually.
Repeatability: Programs can be reused to produce identical parts, making CNC machining ideal for scalable production.

5. Time and Cost Savings

Faster Operation: CNC machines perform cutting, drilling, and milling operations at much higher speeds than manual processes.
Reduced Labor Costs: Fewer operators are needed to oversee the process, and their role shifts to monitoring rather than direct operation.

6. Safety

Operators are removed from direct interaction with cutting tools, significantly reducing the risk of accidents compared to manual machining.

7. Material Efficiency

Optimized Tool Paths: CNC machines minimize waste by precisely cutting only the necessary material, unlike manual processes that often result in excess material removal.

8. Advanced Integration

CAD/CAM Software: CNC machines integrate with design software, allowing seamless transitions from digital models to physical parts, ensuring exact specifications.

Conclusion

4-axis CNC machining outperforms manual processes in accuracy, speed, and efficiency. Its ability to handle complex designs, automate workflows, and deliver consistent results makes it the superior choice for modern manufacturing.