Term at machine tools for the rotational axis, which rotates around the linear axis Z.

At CNC woodworking machines, this axis has a much higher importance as an A-or B-axis. This is mainly because in the wood processing industry mainly flat, panel-shaped workpieces are processed. The surface of a panel can easily be reached with every tool. The processing of the 4 narrow sides is only possible with adapter aggregates where tools can be used horizontally. Without C-axis such a horizontal tool always has the same angle to the narrow side and therefore could only be used for one of the four sides. Only with a C-axis the angle can be changed and even panels with irregular shapes could be processed.

The C-axis motion usually is achieved by a torque support executed as drive for the rotational movement. By means of a servo motor it can rotate adapter aggregates to any angle. The C-axis can be a positioning axis or interpolating axis.

Alternative terms:

• Vector-axis (SCM)