5-Axis CNC Router
Dimensional Limitations
The 5-Axis CNC router has a bed size of 5 feet by 8 feet. These XY dimensions are reduced when using 3+1 and 5-Axis toolpaths. Height limitations are greater than the 3-Axis CNC routers, but more complicated to define and vary depending upon stock dimensions, tool choice and toolpath design. The combined height of the material and cutting tool cannot exceed ~3 feet.
Procedure
As a general rule, 5-Axis CNC toolpathing is more time consuming and more complex than 3-Axis CNC toolpathing. There are a very limited number of machine operators with the proper experience to run jobs, therefore the machine is more commonly used for advanced fabrication coursework and research rather than as a standard service.
Materials
The most common materials used on the router are foam, mdf and plywood.
Contact
In general, use of the 5-axis CNC Router is limited to research and specific coursework. External use of the machine is very limited on a case-by-case basis. To discuss the application, email taubmancollegefablab@umich.edu.
