5-Axis CNC Machining Services

5-axis CNC machining features multi-angle cutting capabilities, enabling the production of extremely complex geometries. It reduces lead times and enhances surface finishes.

Certifications
ISO 9001:2015 | ISO 13485:2016 | IATF16949

5 axis machining

5 Axis CNC Machining with BOYI

Compared to traditional 3-axis and 4-axis machining, BOYI’s 5-axis CNC technology allows parts to move simultaneously within approximately five degrees of freedom, enabling cutting tools to approach the workpiece from virtually any direction. This precision capability makes it possible to machine complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible with 3-axis or 4-axis machines, greatly expanding design flexibility and manufacturing possibilities.

Additionally, our experienced team and advanced manufacturing capabilities ensure the rapid design and production of intricate parts, helping you bring your ideas to life with efficiency and precision.

Maximum Part Size for 5-Axis CNC Machining

Size Metric units Imperial units
Max. part size for all materials
4000 mm×1500 mm×600 mm
158 in.×590 in.×24 in.
Min. feature size
Φ 0.50 mm
Φ 0.002 in.

Surface Finishes for 5 Axis CNC Machining

BOYI provides surface finishes for 5-axis parts, enhancing appearance, smoothness, durability, and hiding tool marks for high-quality results.

anodizing

Specific to aluminum, this finish can range from smooth to matte or gloss, with customizable colors. A thin layer (0.002mm to 0.04mm) is removed.

Polishing

The polished finish offers a high gloss, smooth surface with Ra 0.8μm (Ra 32μin) roughness, ideal for mirror-like applications.

Bead Blasting

Bead Blasting

Metals or plastics parts surface is left with a smooth, matte appearance, with no thickness removal specified.

Black oxide

Black Oxide

Black oxide is a corrosion-resistant treatment for metals, providing a matte black finish, mild rust protection, and improved wear resistance.

Powder coating

Powder Coating

Applicable to metals, offering matte, gloss, or textured finishes with customizable colors. Thickness removed ranges from 0.05mm to 0.15mm.

As Machined

As Machined

This finish retains visible tool marks and is suitable for both metals and plastics. There is no specific thickness removed in this finish.

Brushing

Brushing

Brushing produces a satin texture on parts, offering a smooth, uniform finish while concealing minor flaws.

Electroless Nickel Plating

Electroless Nickel Plating

Electroless Nickel Plating provides a uniform, corrosion-resistant finish on metals, with excellent hardness and wear resistance.

Chromate Conversion Coating

Chromate Conversion Coating

This finish can appear smooth or matte, often with a clear or slight yellow tint. A very thin layer (0.25–1 micrometer) is removed.

E-Coating

E-Coating

This finish, suitable for metals, can be matte or gloss, with black as the most common color.

surface finishes Painted

Painting

Available for metals and plastics, this finish can be matte, gloss, or textured, with color matching possible.

surface finishes heat treatment

Heat Treatment

Heat treatment enhances metal properties such as hardness, strength, and toughness through controlled heating and cooling processes.

Gallery of 5-Axis CNC Machining Parts

Following shows the custom 5 axis CNC machining prototypes and end-use parts we produce for our customers.

Materials for 5 Axis CNC Machining

Any material considered suitable for 5-axis CNC machining must meet high standards of reliability and performance. The following are some commonly used materials for CNC machining:

BOYI 5-Axis Machine Shop

At BOYI, we operate a state-of-the-art facility equipped with multiple advanced 5-axis machining centers. Each machine is integrated with a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), ensuring the highest level of precision and quality control throughout the entire manufacturing process. This combination allows us to deliver parts with exceptional accuracy, complex geometries, and tight tolerances, all while maintaining consistent quality.

Understand the 5 Axis CNC Machining Process

5-axis CNC machining expands upon traditional 3-axis movement by adding two rotational axes. This allows the cutting tool to approach the workpiece from nearly any angle, enabling the production of complex geometries with fewer setups and greater precision.

How Does 5-axis Machining Work?

5-axis machining is a cutting-edge form of CNC machining where the cutting tool moves along five different axes, rather than just three. In a typical 3-axis machine, the spindle moves vertically, horizontally, and in depth. With 5-axis machining, two additional axes come into play—either by allowing the table to rock on two separate axes or by enabling the spindle to swivel on two axes.

These extra degrees of freedom let the cutting tool approach the workpiece from virtually any angle, making it possible to produce highly complex geometries that would be challenging or even impossible with traditional 3-axis machines. 

Simultaneous 5-Axis vs. 3+2-Axis CNC Machining

Both methods extend beyond traditional 3-axis machining, the key difference is how the extra axes are utilized:

  • 5-Axis Machining:
    The tool moves continuously along five axes. This simultaneous multi-axis movement allows the cutting tool to approach the workpiece from any direction, enabling the production of highly complex geometries in a single setup with dynamic, continuous adjustments.

  • 3+2 Axis Machining:
    This method uses a 3-axis machine combined with two additional rotational axes that are used to position the workpiece or tool before machining. Once set, the rotational axes remain fixed during the cutting process. 

Simultaneous 5-Axis vs 3+2-Axis CNC Machining
Trunnion-Style or Swivel-Rotate-Style 5-Axis CNC Machining

Trunnion-Style or Swivel-Rotate-Style 5-Axis CNC Machining

  • Trunnion-Style:
    In this setup, the workpiece is mounted on a rotating table (trunnion) that pivots around a horizontal axis. This allows continuous multi-axis movement of both the workpiece and the cutting tool, making it ideal for large or complex parts that benefit from dynamic positioning.

  • Swivel-Rotate-Style:
    Here, the cutting tool head swivels and rotates, while the workpiece remains fixed or moves on a standard 3-axis table. This configuration offers excellent flexibility in tool orientation and is often favored for smaller parts or when precise tool access is critical.

Applications of 5 Axis CNC Machining

  1. Turbine blades
  2. Engine components
  3. Transmission parts
  4. Surgical instruments
  5. Implants and prosthetics
  6. Molds and dies
  7. Military equipment components
  8. Electronic enclosures
  9. Aerospace brackets
  10. Automotive custom parts
 

Key Benefits of 5 Axis CNC Machining

  • Machines intricate designs from any angle, cutting down on setups.
  • Fewer setups mean less handling and improved precision.
  • Maintains optimal tool angles for smoother surfaces.
  • Reduces deflection and vibration for cleaner cuts.
  • Combines multiple operations into one setup.
  • Efficient tool paths minimize waste.

About 5-Axis CNC Machining FAQ's

BOYI 5-axis CNC machining provides high precision with tight tolerances, often reaching accuracies within 0.001mm or less.

5-axis machining is ideal for parts with complex shapes, such as turbine blades, aerospace components, medical implants, and custom automotive parts.

3-axis machining only allows movement along three axes (X, Y, Z), while 5-axis machining adds two more rotational axes, allowing for more flexible tool positioning and the ability to machine more complex geometries in one setup.

To get a quote, please feel free to send us all related files, including 3D models and 2D drawings, to [email protected], and we will offer a detailed quote based on your project needs.

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