FANUC, Mitsubishi, Brother and Siemens
Common CNC systems can be supported after the exact control model, communication interface and machine configuration are confirmed.
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4 Axis CNC Controllers and Matched Rotary Table Servo Packages
Yidai provides two external-axis control architectures for adding indexed fourth-axis or fifth-axis positioning to an existing three-axis machining center. Both are intended for 3+1 and 3+2 fixed-angle machining, not continuous simultaneous interpolation with X, Y and Z.
For rotary table manufacturers, Yidai can also configure a matched servo motor, servo drive and controller package around the table ratio, torque, speed, inertia, encoder, brake method and target CNC interface. See the OEM rotary table servo control system route.
CSD700: second-generation integrated controller and servo drive
The CSD700 integrated 4th/5th axis servo controller drive combines the axis-card controller and servo drive in one compact device. It supports matched servo power from 400 W to 1 kW and can be configured for an indexed fourth axis or fifth axis. The integrated architecture reduces separate components, cabinet space and field wiring.
YD-1: first-generation standalone controller package
The YD-1 external 4th/5th axis servo control package uses a standalone axis-card controller with a separately matched servo drive and servo motor. It remains suitable when a separate controller architecture is preferred or required by the project. YD-1 has no fixed servo power range; the matched drive and motor are selected for the rotary table, load, torque, speed, inertia and project conditions.
A complete retrofit solution can include the controller/control drive, matched servo motor, CNC rotary table, brake/clamp circuit, cables and machine-interface wiring. Selection is based on the CNC system, rotary-table size, required torque and speed, workpiece load, indexing angles, cabinet layout and safety interlocks.
CNC compatibility evaluation
- FANUC and Mitsubishi: compatible configurations can retain the machine's original handwheel for external-axis setup and manual positioning.
- Brother and Siemens: an additional electronic handwheel is required for manual movement of the external axis.
Compatibility is confirmed from the complete CNC model, software version, communication resources, machine-builder PLC logic and electrical wiring. Brand name alone is not enough to approve a retrofit.
Typical applications
- Indexed fourth-axis machining (3+1)
- Indexed fifth-axis positioning (3+2)
- Multi-face machining, bolt circles, radial holes and side features
- Upgrading a mechanically reliable three-axis machining center
See the external 4th/5th axis retrofit solution for the control sequence and application boundary.
Send the CNC model, machine model, electrical-cabinet photos, workpiece information and required indexing process for a compatibility review.
How to Choose an External 4th/5th Axis Servo Control Package
An external rotary axis should be selected as a matched servo control package. A YD-1 package includes a matched servo drive, servo motor and axis-card controller, and must suit the machine command method, brake, indexing sequence and electrical conditions while retaining the existing 3-axis CNC.
Quick answer: A 4 axis CNC controller is an external control unit that commands the servo, brake and indexed angles of a CNC rotary table while the original 3-axis CNC continues to run the machining program. It suits indexed multi-side machining and is not a substitute for simultaneous 4-axis interpolation.
Confirm the trigger interface
Select TCP/IP, RS232 or I/O according to the CNC's available functions. On supported TCP/IP integrations, use of the machine's original handwheel can be evaluated.
Match the servo and brake
Confirm motor brand, power, encoder, drive, reduction mechanism and clamping logic instead of assuming compatibility from pulse signals alone.
Define the machining boundary
External controllers are primarily used for indexed positioning. Fully simultaneous interpolation requires a separate review of the original CNC and servo architecture.
Servo control package selection FAQ
What is a rotary table controller?
A rotary table controller is the independent control unit for rotary-axis servo motion, angle commands, brake logic and indexing sequence. It coordinates with the existing CNC through a confirmed TCP/IP, RS232 or I/O interface.
Does an external controller replace the original CNC?
No. It controls rotary-axis positioning and coordinates with the existing machining cycle through a confirmed interface.
Can the machine's original handwheel control the rotary axis?
This can be evaluated for supported TCP/IP integrations and depends on the CNC model, software version and available interface.
Is the cost always half of an OEM expansion?
Projects are commonly around 40%-50% of an OEM axis expansion, but the final cost depends on the machine, rotary table, servo, electrical work and installation scope.