[LongRat]

I'm considering building a 5 axis mill for making small plastic parts. These will require continuous 5-axis motion. Obtaining CAM software will not be a problem, what I am unsure about is Mach's ability to control a machine of a particular 5-axis configuration. I understand Mach can not do axis translations. Does this mean that a trunnion table on the bed of the mill is suitable, and that a swivel-rotate spindle head is not (unless the translations are handled by the CAM)? I have seen some examples of 5-axis machines controlled by EMC, but not Mach. I would be very interested in seeing examples of Mach controlled set ups if anyone has one.

[Splint]

I'm considering building a 5 axis mill for making small plastic parts. These will require continuous 5-axis motion. Obtaining CAM software will not be a problem, what I am unsure about is Mach's ability to control a machine of a particular 5-axis configuration. I understand Mach can not do axis translations. Does this mean that a trunnion table on the bed of the mill is suitable, and that a swivel-rotate spindle head is not (unless the translations are handled by the CAM)? I have seen some examples of 5-axis machines controlled by EMC, but not Mach. I would be very interested in seeing examples of Mach controlled set ups if anyone has one.

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