5 axis CNC machining uses a machine that can simultaneously move and rotate in five axes to machine a part. Its benefits include its high suitability for fabricating parts with complex designs and intricate details, accuracy, speed, and production efficiency.
Picture the most sophisticated CNC machined part you have ever seen; there is a high chance that its manufacturers relied on 5-axis machining. However, using the process or outsourcing to a CNC machining center should only come after understanding it.
This article will guide you through the CNC machining process, aiming for successful integration into your project. It will define the process, explain how it works, and describe its typical applications.
What is 5 Axis CNC Machining?
5 axis CNC machining is a class of CNC machining that relies on using a 5-axis CNC machine that can simultaneously move and rotate five axes (three linear and two rotational).
Generally speaking, the three linear axes are the fundamental axes that aid in cutting. The three rotational axes are auxiliary, and the machine can only access two. They only help properly orient the workpiece (they do not participate in cutting).
There is also a limit on the number of axes you can simultaneously link to five because it can lead to a higher control system complexity, programming complexity, and mechanical constraints.
The 5 axis CNC setup is more diverse than the traditional 3-axis and 4-axis CNC setup due to the number of axes it can move and rotate. Furthermore, its configuration eliminates the need for multiple setups. As a result, there is less need for supervision, and there is improved production efficiency.
What Does 5 Axis Stand for?
“5 axis” in the CNC machining technique represents the five axes the cutting tool can simultaneously move and rotate along. The typical CNC machine has three linear axes (fundamental axes) and three rotational axes (A, B, and C) and the 5 axis machine will move along the linear axes and two of the rotational axes.
X-axis
The X-axis represents the cutting tool’s horizontal movement along the machine bed length, and it can be left to right or right to left, depending on the machine configuration. Movement along the X-axis enables CNC machining operations like milling, drilling, and contouring.
Y-Axis
The Y-axis represents the cutting tool’s lateral movement and it can be front to back or back to front, depending on the machine configuration. Movement along the Y-axis enables CNC machining operations like side milling, slotting, and profiling.
Z-Axis
The Z-axis represents the cutting tool’s vertical movement. The movement can be up and down depending on the 5-axis CNC machine type. Movement along the Z-axis enables CNC machining operations such as drilling, tapping, and boring.
A-Axis
The A-axis represents the cutting tool’s rotational movement around the X-axis – tilting or swiveling. This axis allows more flexibility and compatibility with undercuts, chamfers, and angled features.
B-Axis
The B-axis represents the cutting tool’s rotational movement around the Y-axis. This axis allows for multi-sided machining and machining features like deep pockets, intricate contours, and curved surfaces.
C-Axis
The C-axis represents the cutting tool’s rotational movement around the Z-axis – it tilts or swivels vertically.
Comparison between 3-axis, 4-axis, 3+2-axis, and 5-axis CNC machining
The significant difference between the different classes of CNC machines is the number of axes the cutting tool can move or rotate. The table below highlights the differences and similarities between 3-axis, 4-axis, 3+2-axis, and 5-axis CNC machines.
| Feature | 3-Axis CNC Machining | 4-Axis CNC Machining | 3+2-Axis CNC Machining | 5-Axis CNC Machining |
| Description | Suitable for basic CNC machining operations. The cutting tool can move along three axes (X, Y, and Z) | It is suitable for complex machining due to its ability to rotate along the horizontal axis. (i.e., the addition of the rotational axis (A-axis). | The cutting tool moves simultaneously in the 3-axis and rotates in two indexed rotational axes. However, switching from the three axes to the rotational axes requires constant repositioning. | The cutting tool can move simultaneously along five axes. |
| X-Axis | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Y-Axis | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Z-Axis | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| A-Axis | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| B-Axis | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Types of 5 Axis CNC Machines
The main distinction between the different types of 5-axis CNC machines is the rotational axis location (machine spindle head or the table). Below are the three common types of 5-axis CNC systems so you can choose the right one for your project.
