In the simplest terms, 5-axis machining involves using a CNC to move a part or cutting tool along five different axes simultaneously. This enables the machining of very complex parts, which is why 5-axis is especially popular for aerospace applications.
However, several factors have contributed to the wider adoption of 5-axis machining. These include:
- A push toward single-setup machining (sometimes referred to as “Done-in-One”) to reduce lead time and increase efficiency
- The ability to avoid collision with the tool holder by tilting the cutting tool or the table, which also allows better access to part geometry
- Improved tool life and cycle time as a result of tilting the tool/table to maintain optimum cutting position and constant chip load
5-Axis Configurations
A 5-axis machine’s specific configuration determines which two of the three rotational axes it utilizes.
For example, a trunnion-style machine operates with an A-axis (rotating about the X-axis) and a C-axis (rotating about the Z-axis), whereas a swivel-rotate-style machine operates with a B-axis (rotating about the Y-axis) and a C-axis (rotating about the Z-axis).
The rotary axes in trunnion-style machines are expressed via the movement of the table, whereas swivel-rotate-style machines express their rotary axes by swiveling the spindle. Both styles have their own unique advantages. For instance, trunnion-style machines offer larger work volumes, since there’s no need to compensate for the space taken up by the swiveling spindle. On the other hand, swivel-rotate-style machines can support heavier parts, since the table is always horizontal.
Why use 5-Axis Machining?
Trying to decide between 3-axis machining and 5-axis machining is a bit like trying to decide between having a MacDonald’s Quarter Pounder or a T-bone steak; if cost is your only concern, then the former is obviously the way to go.
However, the dilemma becomes much more complicated when comparing 5-axis and 3+2-axis.
5-Axis vs 3+2 Axis
It’s important to distinguish between 5-axis machining and 3+2-axis machining. The former—also called continuous or simultaneous 5-axis machining—involves continuous adjustments of the cutting tool along all five axes to keep the tip optimally perpendicular to the part.
In contrast, the latter—also called 5-sided or positional 5-axis machining—involves executing a 3-axis program with the cutting tool locked at an angle determined by the two rotational axes. Machining that involves reorienting the toolbit along the rotational axes between cuts is called ‘5-axis indexed’ though it still counts as 3 + 2.
In contrast, the latter—also called 5-sided or positional 5-axis machining—involves executing a 3-axis program with the cutting tool locked at an angle determined by the two rotational axes. Machining that involves reorienting the toolbit along the rotational axes between cuts is called ‘5-axis indexed’ though it still counts as 3 + 2.
The main advantage of continuous 5-axis machining over 5-axis indexed is speed, since the latter necessitates stopping and starting between each reorientation of the tool whereas the former does not.
However, it should be possible to produce the same results whether using continuous or indexed 5-axis. (Readers who disagree are encouraged to share examples of parts that can only be machined with continuous 5-axis in the comments section below.)
It’s also worth noting that with the speed advantage comes more moving parts, which leads to increased wear and tear as well as a greater need for part crash detection. This is one of the reasons continuous 5-axis machining is more difficult from a programming standpoint.