5-axis CNC Machining: Top 10 Advantages

5-axis CNC machining is one of the most popular machining methods these days.

There are reasons that make it such a suitable process that multiple industries have been dependent on it for their applications.

If you also want to learn what makes 5-axis CNC machining such a seamless choice for manufacturing components, read this guide below.

What is 5-Axis CNC Machining?

5-axis CNC machining, as the name suggests, is a type of machining process in which the cutting tool moves in 5 directions. It follows the X, Y, and Z axes, and at the same time, it has A and B around which the tool rotates.

This process allows a machine component to be moved from all directions in the form of a single operation, and the workpiece doesn't need repositioning again and again.

There are various other aspects that make the 5-axis CNC machining a popular choice, and these are the following:

1. High Precision and Accurate

5-Achsen-Bearbeitung offers accuracy and precision; in one single go, you can manufacture highly complex components.

It helps to reduce the time spent in machining and ensures high accuracy. The exact dimensions of the component are achieved, and the quality is not compromised.

2. Complex Designs

5-axis CNC machining is better than 3-axis and 4-axis CNC machining because it can create highly complex components. Due to the movement of tools being in 5 axes, the range of positioning and motion is increased in the cutting tool.

It is a highly flexible process, and challenging components can be manufactured using the process in no time.

3. Flawless Curved Parts

Curved components used in turbine blades and fins are manufactured using 5-axis machining with smoothness and consistency.

The process ensures that the machine creates details on the workpiece very accurately. It helps to develop a uniform cutting angle on the curved edge, which is not achievable through other processes.

4. Faster Material Removal

5-axis machining has cutting tools that are short, and this leads to an increase in the cutting speed. Hence, the material of the workpiece is removed very quickly. With lesser lead times, you can achieve exceptional designs.

5. Saves Time

5-axis machining has tools from 5 different positions that work at the same time. Hence, it ensures speed.

This tends to reduce time even in the process of drilling, which is extremely time-consuming when carried through other processes and is quick using 5-axis machining.

6. Reduced Labor Cost

Due to the benefit of optimizing the production process, labor costs are also reduced. 5-axis machining requires less time and conducts the job very quickly, which reduces labor hours.

Also, it has multiple tools working in multiple directions. It reduces the number of steps needed for the job, and the need for specialized labor is reduced. The process enhances the overall efficiency and helps save a lot on operational costs.

7. Increased Productivity

3-axis CNC machining takes time because the component needs to be reoriented again and again so that it can be worked on from different slides.

However, 5-axis machining doesn't need different setups, nor does it require aligning the workpiece again and again. Hence, the productivity of the overall process increases.

8. Better Surface Finishes

The shorter cutting tool in the 5-axis machining process helps to attain an improved surface finish. The burs, scratches, and other deformities on the tools are minimized because the machine works consistently in one go from all directions.

Improved surface finishes reduce the need for secondary finishing processes and offer durability to the parts.

9. Shorter Cutting Tools and Improved Quality

5-axis machining uses shorter cutting tools, it helps the tool to get very close to the workpiece and work at an improved angle. It offers various benefits, like reducing the time for precision cutting with a seamless finish and tight tolerances.

All this leads to enhancing the quality of the components and also improves the life of the cutting tools.

10. Cuts Mold Cavities with Ease and Precision

Components have different uses, and some of them may require mold cavities for production purposes. These cavities are critical and must have appropriate finish, tolerance, and precision.

5-axis CNC machining helps in manufacturing molds that have deep cavities and results in a mold that has an excellent surface finish. It's usable for all types of molds, especially the ones that have deep pockets.

Schlussfolgerung

Modern machining practices consider 5-axis machining a superior manufacturing technique compared to 3-axis machining.

If you are also planning to have some components manufactured with tighter tolerance and complex shapes, let us know.

Wir bei DEK use 5-axis CNC machining to manufacture high-quality, precise components in shorter lead times and at affordable cost.