Zero-Point clamping: A guide to faster CNC setup and automation

In modern machining environments, reducing set-up time and improving repeatability are critical to maintaining productivity. One technology helping manufacturers achieve this is zero-point clamping. Instead of manually aligning and bolting fixtures each time a set-up changes, a zero-point system uses precision pull-studs and receivers that accurately lock into position. This enables operators to change a multitude of fixtures, vices, and pallets in seconds while maintaining consistent positioning. 

Why Zero-Point Systems Are Becoming Essential 

Modern manufacturing demands flexibility, yet manufacturers continually face machining downtime, a lack of compatibility between solutions and lengthy setup times. All of this results in higher costs, unnecessary complexity, and lack of rigidity  

Traditional systems often mean compromise: 

  • Additional adapter plates, reducing rigidity and usable Z-height  
  • Incompatible pull-studs, meaning costly system changes  
  • Manual or external clamping systems which slow down automation  
  • Lack of flexibility for future fixtures or parts – excess cost for future products 

A New Approach: NIKKEN Integrated Zero-Point Technology 

Many zero-point systems are installed as add-on clamping plates, which increase stack height whilst simultaneously reducing rigidity and accuracy. 

NIKKEN takes a different approach. Instead of adding zero-point clamping on top of existing equipment, NIKKEN’s patented system integrates the technology directly into the rotary table itself, eliminating the need for any additional adaptor plates and maintaining maximum machine rigidity. The system also combines a standard 96 × 96 mm mounting grid, allowing manufacturers to adopt the technology while maintaining compatibility with existing workholding solutions already in the workshop. 

Highlight: The 5AX-201 with Integrated Zero-Point 

The NIKKEN 5AX-201 is a compact, high-performance 5-axis tilting rotary table engineered to deliver exceptional accuracy, rigidity and reliability in demanding machining environments. Designed to maximise machining capability without increasing machine footprint, the 5AX-201 combines robust construction with advanced engineering to provide stable and precise rotary positioning for complex multi-axis machining operations. 

Like all NIKKEN rotary tables, the 5AX-201 is built with precision, reliability and long-term support in mind: 

  • High rigidity construction for stable, high-accuracy machining 
  • Monoblock spindle design to maximise strength and positional accuracy 
  • Advanced material selection for long-term durability 
  • Ion-nitrided worm wheel for superior wear resistance and precision motion control 
  • Backed by NIKKEN’s global service and technical support 

The 5AX-201 becomes even more powerful with the integration of NIKKEN’s patented Zero-Point clamping technology. 

Integrated system features include: 

  • Zero-point receivers built directly into the monoblock rotary table spindle 
  • Pass-through capability with 3 additional pneumatic feeds 
  • Automatic clamp and unclamp operation of zero-point and fixtures via the machine controller 
  • Positioning accuracy of < 0.005 mm 
  • Clamping performance of 13 kN locking force per receiver (4 Receivers = 52kN total) 

By combining our high-rigidity axis design with advanced zero-point workholding in a single integrated platform, the 5AX-201 enables manufacturers to achieve faster fixture changeovers, improved machining stability and a simplified path to automation. 

Plus, with our rotary joint pass-through capability - the table is not limited to pre-clamped or automatic clamping fixtures, swap between conventional systems and pneumatic clamping (such as vices) without leaving the automated workflow or manually intervening. 

Learn More 

To explore the system in more detail and see how it integrates with the 5AX-201 rotary table, download the full guide below. 

Download the NIKKEN Integrated Zero-Point Technology Guide 

https://docs.nikken-world.com/