How 5-Axis CNC Milling Machines Can Improve Customer Production Capabilities

The more intricate a product’s design, the stricter the specifications and the tighter the tolerances their components will need to be. Additionally, many industries also require highly accurate machining that must meet specific requirements, meaning the machining technology to fabricate these products needs to be advanced and highly capable. Precision 5-axis CNC milling machines offer just that, not only meeting the product requirements but allowing businesses to expand the kind of work they can do.

What Is a 5-Axis CNC Machine & How Does It Compare to Similar Technology?

Precision 5-axis milling machines work similarly to 3-axis and 4-axis machines, using rotary tools in a subtractive process to shape materials into the manufacturer’s desired shape. The most common type of CNC milling machine used in machine shops today operates by moving the tool along three linear axes. Though they work well for lower-cost components with simple geometries, 3-axis milling machines are limited in what they can do. A 5-axis CNC milling machine can additionally speed production and make tooling last longer, as its greater accuracy allows shorter cutting implements to be used.

Like 3-axis or 4-axis machines, 5-axis CNC milling machines also require programming so that they do the work automatically, though they’re more capable of working with a minimum of human involvement.  This software allows the operator to translate computer-aided design (CAD) models into G-code or CNC alphanumeric language to support computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). Because they require less setup, they can be made to run without an operator’s direct supervision, which translates to lower labor costs and allows a single operator to run several machines simultaneously.

Turn the Benefits of 5-Axis Machining Into Greater Profits

This ability to approach a workpiece in five different ways and across multiple axes makes them more versatile than other CNC machines, enabling them to work on multiple surfaces at the same time. The benefits of 5-axis machining include more accurate parts, fewer setups, smoother finishes, reduced secondary machining, and quicker production times.

Another advantage 5-axis machining provides involves the setting up and orienting of workpieces. 5-axis technology largely eliminates the need to make fixtures to hold a workpiece, as the machine rotates the component on multiple axes to carve out the necessary geometry, ultimately reducing errors, creating less excess, and shortening the time it takes to complete a part component.

Using a 5-axis CNC milling machine gives parts manufacturers a technological advantage over competitors by cost-effectively running production jobs and providing quicker turnaround times. With more advanced capabilities at their fingertips, a manufacturer can take on more jobs, leading to higher profits. One key way in which to do so is through lights-out manufacturing.

Lights-Out Manufacturing

One of the greatest advantages of 5-axis machining is often referred to as lights-out manufacturing. This advanced machinery allows machining shops to operate production runs sans human workers, such as overnight or through weekends, without needing anyone to remain on the premises. Lights-out machining enables machine shops to perform intricate work that entails tight tolerances or complex geometries more quickly and efficiently, making the shop more productive overall.

Advanced 5-Axis CNC Milling Capabilities from Staub Precision Machine

For those who want to produce high-quality components with tight tolerances and complex geometries, the advantages of 5-axis machining are clear. Staub Precision Machine is proud to offer cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions that give customers more efficient production of precision parts. 

If you want to automate more of your production, we have the tools and expertise to make it happen efficiently and cost-effectively. As a leader in CNC machining automation, Staub can point the way to greater productivity and higher profits. Want to know more about what our 5-axis CNC machinery capabilities are? Contact the experts at Staub to speak with our experienced team today.