Proteo - 4.5 Axis CNC

The Proteo is a 4.5-axis CNC Machine featuring:

• A horizontally oriented spindle (moving on the Z-axis).
• A motorized rotational axis on the worktable.
• A manual axis for worktable tilt.
• X and Y axes that move the table vertically.

During our machine-tools course, my colleague Rafaela Martins and I were tasked with reassembling this machine, which had been completely disassembled for maintenance. All parts were jumbled together in one bag—no photographs or documentation to guide us. We only knew it was supposed to be a 4.5-axis turning machine.

We began by sorting and identifying each component, gradually understanding how its mechanics worked. The most time-consuming part was sorting hundreds of screws, many of which were nearly identical in size. Once identified, we meticulously assembled the machine, ensuring every part was properly lubricated.

To achieve precision, we used a comparator to adjust the vertical and lateral preload screws along the linear axes, making sure all rails were parallel and any clearances were minimal.

The electronics posed our biggest challenge, arriving in a separate bag without any cables. Despite limited knowledge in that area, we systematically figured out the correct connections and succeeded in bringing the Proteo back to life.

Ultimately, our hard work paid off. We successfully machined a 0.5 mm diameter pin from a 3 mm brass rod.