5-axis Control Machining Fundamentals

Features of 5-axis Control Machines

What is 5-axis Control Machining?
  • More flexible machining method that can be done on a machine with three linear axes (X, Y and Z) and additional two swivel rotary axes.
  • Additional swivel rotary axes enable machining of more extensive areas in one setup.
  • Machining is mainly grouped into two types depending on how the additional two axes are used.

  • Indexing 5-axis machining

    Machining is done on three linear axes with additional two axes positioned at any angle.

  • Simultaneous 5-axis machining

    Two swivel rotary axes and three linear axes are synchronized to machine 3D curved surfaces.

Types of 5-axis Control Machines

5-axis control machines are mainly categorized into three types according to where swivel rotary axes are added.

  • Swivel rotary table type

  • Swivel head rotary table type

  • Swivel rotary head type

Benefits of 5-axis Control Machining

5-axis control machines may be considered being used for workpieces with special shapes, but they actually offer a lot of advantages in machining general-shaped workpieces compared to 3-axis control machines.

  • Shorter machining time, higher machining
    quality & accuracy

    Reduction in setups
    Avoidance of a tool tip point where tool's peripheral speed becomes zero

  • Less machining cost, higher machining
    quality & accuracy

    No special tools required

  • Less
    machining cost

    No dedicated fixtures required