5-Axis CNC Machining

If you are looking for a professional and reliable 5-axis CNC machining partner in China, our team is ready for your challenging high-precision machining project. We have both simultaneous 5-Axis CNC machining centers and CNC 5-Axis multi-tasking milling-turning centers in-house and highly skilled technicians to complete the project for you with short lead time and competitive prices.

CNC(Computer Numerical Control) Machining has revolutionarily shaped modern manufacturing since the debut of the world’s first numerically-controlled milling machine which was developed by researchers working at the Servomechanisms Laboratory of MIT(Massachusetts Institute of Technology) in 1952.

CNC Machining technology keeps evolving since then. More and more cutting-edge technologies have been integrated into the manufacturing of CNC machine tools to meet the demanding market needs. From 3-axis machining to 5-Axis machining and CNC 5-Axis multi-tasking machining(full 5-axis milling with turning spindle), each phase has witnessed the huge optimization of CNC machining efficiency and flexibility.

What is the 5-axis? The term 5-axis refers to the number of directions in which the cutting tool can move. The cutting tool of a 3-axis CNC machine can move in 3 linear axes(X, Y, Z ), while the cutting tool of a 5-axis CNC machine can move in total 5 axes(X, Y, Z, A, and C). That means the cutting tool can approach the workpiece from any direction. Compared with 3-axis machining, 5-axis machining features “single setup, done in one, less cycle time, fewer jigs&fixtures, complex curved parts machining with high-quality surface finish” as it can machine five sides of a complex part in just one setup thus reducing accumulated errors of multiple setups and shorting the project lead time.

Simultaneous 5-axis machining versus 3+2 axis machining

3+2 axis machining is also known as 5-sided or 5-positional 5-axis machining as it can machine 5 sides of a part through a single setup. Though the 3+2 axis consists of 5 axes(X, Y, Z, A, and C), the 2 rotational axes don’t rotate simultaneously with the 3 linear axes. The simultaneous linear interpolation of a 5-sided machine is usually available on X, Y, and Z. The workpiece is relatively in a fixed orientation during the machining process.

Simultaneous 5-axis machining is truly 5-axis machining as the 3 linear axes (X, Y, and Z) and 2 rotational axes (A and C) of the machine tool all engage at the same time to perform complex machining on parts. Both simultaneous positioning and interpolation are available on the 5axes (X, Y, Z, A, C) of a true 5-axis machine tool. Simultaneous 5-axis machining is widely used in aerospace, defense, military, medical, robotics, and other industries for the manufacture of high-precision, complex and curved parts. These industries usually demand close tolerance standards, high-quality surface roughness, and quick turnaround time.

Benefits of simultaneous 5-Axis Machining

Single setup
Less transfer
Fewer fixtures
Less cycle time
Less shop floor
Better part geometries
Less energy consumtion
Better surface quality
Complex parts machining
Better flexibility and more versatility