Retrofitting Kitagawa 5-Axis Rotary Tables for Expanded CNC Capability
In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, the pressure is on to machine faster, more accurately, and with greater flexibility. That’s why many workshops are turning their attention to 5-axis machining—a technology that was once reserved for high-end aerospace firms, but is now becoming more accessible thanks to retrofit solutions. Unlocking 5-Axis Machining Without Buying a New Machine
But here’s the good news: you don’t need to buy a brand-new 5-axis machine to access these benefits.
At 1st MTA, we supply a range of Kitagawa 5-axis rotary tables that can be retrofitted to your existing CNC setup—helping you increase capability, reduce setup times, and machine complex part geometries with ease.
Why 5-Axis?
5-axis machining allows cutting tools to approach the workpiece from almost any direction, making it possible to:
The result? Faster cycle times, greater accuracy, and the ability to produce intricate geometries that would otherwise require multiple operations or specialised fixturing.
The Traditional Barrier: Cost
Historically, the move to 5-axis meant a large capital investment. Full 5-axis machining centres are expensive—not just in terms of purchase price, but also in space, training, and maintenance. For many shops, that barrier is simply too high.
But if you’re already running a 3- or 4-axis CNC machine, there’s a smarter way forward.
Retrofit Your Existing Machine with a Kitagawa 5-Axis Table
You may already have a 4-axis rotary table installed. By retrofitting a Kitagawa 5-axis rotary table, you can unlock many of the same capabilities as a full 5-axis machine—without replacing your existing equipment.
Here’s how it works, depending on your machine’s current setup:
🔧 Option 1: Machine Is 5-Axis Ready
If your CNC is fully 5-axis capable and prepped, a Kitagawa TT series table can be installed to provide simultaneous 5-axis machining—ideal for complex, high-precision parts.
🔧 Option 2: Machine is 4th-Axis Prepped
With one axis driven through the machine’s control and the second via a Quinte controller, you’ll get 4+1 machining. This setup allows movement across four axes, with the fifth axis manually positioned—great for multi-angle work without full simultaneous motion.
🔧 Option 3: Machine Not Prepped for Rotary Axes
No prep? No problem. The Kitagawa table can operate both axes via an external Quinte controller, providing 3+2 machining. This approach offers significant flexibility and precision with minimal machine integration.
💡 Not sure what your machine is capable of? We can help assess your options—and in many cases, your machine tool dealer can prep your system for 5-axis use.
Benefits of Retrofitting a 5-Axis Table
Here’s what you gain by upgrading your 4-axis system with a Kitagawa rotary table:
✅ Expanded Machining Capability
Approach the workpiece from almost any direction. Machine undercuts, angled holes, and other complex features easily.
✅ Reduced Setup and Cycle Time
One setup can handle multiple operations from various compound angles. Fewer repositions = faster turnaround.
✅ Improved Precision
Reduce tool deflection, maintain alignment across operations, and improve overall part quality and surface finish.
✅ Complex Part Geometry
Machining curved surfaces, deep features, and contoured shapes becomes feasible—opening doors to new business opportunities and sectors.
✅ Cost-Effective Investment
A retrofit saves money compared to the cost of a new 5-axis CNC machine and typically integrates faster with your existing processes.
Conclusion
5-axis machining is no longer out of reach for small to mid-sized manufacturers. With Kitagawa rotary tables available from 1st MTA, you can scale up your capability while keeping capital expenditure under control.
Whether you’re aiming to boost productivity, tackle more complex parts, or stay competitive in a demanding market, a retrofit solution could be the smartest next step.
📞 Contact 1st MTA today to find out which Kitagawa rotary table best suits your machine and production goals.
📧 enquiries@1mta.com
🌐 www.1mta.com
