IN-X Machine, Inc. 
By 2026, the market for CNC machining equipment is on track to reach $115 billion. In manufacturing, CNC machining is essential to produce enough of the precision parts most industries rely on.
5-axis CNC machining, in particular, has become advanced enough to produce parts more quickly and with less error.
Historically, due to the cost, 5-axis machining services were only used for aerospace parts. Today, the process is accessible enough to be used in various industries.
Read on to learn about the applications of 5-axis CNC machining!
5-Axis CNC Machining: An Overview
CNC stands for computer numerical control, a process where a computer controls how a machine cuts a part using CAD software. With ordinary CNC machining, the process takes place in 3 axes: X, Y, and Z.
For example, with a CNC mill, the bed moves back and forth and side to side. Meanwhile, the cutting tool moves up and down.
However, when two of the three axes also rotate, the process is 5-axis machining. The additional axes correspond as follows:
- A axis: rotation around the X axis
- B axis: rotation around the Y axis
- C axis: rotation around the Z axis
In a 5-axis CNC machining center, manufacturers have even greater control of the shaping of precision machined parts. Machinists can use this process to create more complexly shaped objects.
Applications for 5-Axis CNC Machining
Some of the major industries that rely on 5-axis machining for custom parts are medicine, military, and electronics manufacturing.
In medicine, 5-axis machining is useful for creating implants and prosthetics. The speed and efficiency of the process make these devices less expensive.
Precision machining is one of the major sectors contracted by the government for military equipment. Vehicles like jets, submarines, and tanks all use machined parts and engine components.
As electronics get smaller, the parts needed to produce them become more complicated to manufacture. 5-axis CNC machining allows for tight tolerances and detailed prototypes.
5-Axis vs 3-Axis
In addition to creating complex parts, 5-axis high-speed CNC machining is also suitable for the same applications as 3-axis machining. However, 5-axis machining is often faster and yields more precise results.
5-axis CNC machining is faster than 3-axis because it requires less resetting of the machine. Instead of moving the part and securing it in a new position, the machinist can just program the bed to rotate.
Because 5-axis CNC is so much faster, it is also a cost-effective manufacturing solution. The reduced time to finish a part means businesses can create more products with less labor.
The process can also be used for a single prototype without wasting valuable time and resources on extra setup time.
Precision 5-Axis CNC Machining Services
5-axis CNC machining has revolutionized the way manufacturers produce parts. The rotation of the bed and tool allows machinists to finish a part faster and more easily, and with less error.
If you’re wondering, “Where can I find 5-axis machining near me?” In-X Machine Inc. is the solution you need. We offer programming, prototyping, and machining services using state-of-the-art equipment.
Contact us today to find out more about our machining services!