5-Axis CNC Machining Guide – A Brief Introduction to the 5 Axis CNC Machining

The most favorable factors for 5-axis CNC machining are:
– Single setting: 3-axis machine needs multiple settings, which may lead to incorrect alignment, higher cost and other errors. With 5-axis machining, you can process complex shapes through one setting, thus improving efficiency, saving time, reducing costs and preventing operator errors.
– Shorter tool: 5-axis machining allows you to use shorter tools because you can lower the head and position the tool properly. This helps to achieve higher cutting speed without putting too much pressure on the tool. Shorter cutting tools can also reduce tool vibration, which may lead to cavities and cores. Since the vibration of the 5-axis machine tool is small, you will see better surface finish.
– Complex parts: This process allows you to process complex parts that originally need to be cast. If you have a small batch production or prototype, you will be able to process the parts in a few weeks instead of waiting for months to complete the casting.
– Improve tool life: you can maintain a constant chip load and the optimal cutting position, thus improving the cycle time and life of the tool.
– Drilling: 5-axis machining provides the ability to drill a series of holes with various composite angles in time. This can save a lot of time – if you use a 3-axis machine tool, you need to use different settings for each face.
– Collision avoidance: the ability to tilt the workbench or cutting tool to prevent collision with the tool collet.

Although this manufacturing process is the most popular in the aerospace environment, these useful features have prompted more industries to adopt it. The industries benefiting from this process include oil and gas, medical treatment, alternative energy and compressors.