5 Axis CNC Machining
What is 5 Axis CNC Machining?
5-axis CNC machining is an advanced manufacturing process that uses computer numerical control (CNC) to move the cutting tool or workpiece along five different axes simultaneously. Unlike traditional 3-axis machining, which operates on the X, Y, and Z linear axes, 5-axis machining adds two rotational axes, allowing the tool to approach the workpiece from virtually any angle. This capability enables the production of complex and precise parts in a single setup, reducing the need for multiple fixtures and improving accuracy. It is widely used in aerospace, automotive, and mold-making industries for its efficiency and high-quality results.
The Advantages Of 5 axis CNC Machining
Higher Precision and Accuracy
5-axis CNC machines achieve extremely tight tolerances and smooth finishes by moving the tool along five axes simultaneously, enabling precise machining of complex parts.
Reduced Setup Time
They can complete complex parts in a single setup, eliminating multiple repositionings, which saves time and reduces errors.
Ability to Machine Complex Geometries
The additional rotational axes allow machining of intricate shapes, undercuts, and angled surfaces that are impossible with 3-axis machines.
Improved Surface Finish
Shorter cutting tools and better tool orientation reduce vibrations, resulting in superior surface quality and less post-processing.
Increased Production Speed
Simultaneous multi-axis movement allows faster material removal and shorter cycle times, enhancing overall manufacturing efficiency.
Materials For 5 Axis CNC Machining Parts
Aluminum
Brass
Bronze
Copper
Magnesium
Stainless Steel
Titanium
Aluminum
Description: Aluminum alloys are lightweight materials with excellent strength-to-weight ratio, superior thermal and electrical conductivity, and outstanding corrosion resistance, widely used in aerospace, automotive, and electronics applications. They offer excellent machinability and can be heat-treated to achieve high strength.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 3-5 days
Alloys: 6061, 6063, 7075, 2024, 5052, 3003
Finishing Options: Anodizing, Media Blasting, Powder Coating, Polishing
Brass
Description: Brass is a copper-zinc alloy with exceptional machinability and corrosion resistance, featuring good tensile strength and excellent formability. It demonstrates superior electrical conductivity and is commonly used for electrical connectors, decorative components, and plumbing fittings.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 5-7 days
Alloys: Alpha Brass (>65% Cu), Beta Brass (~50% Cu/Zn), Naval Brass, Free-cutting Brass
Finishing Options: Polishing, Electroplating, Passivation, Media Blasting
Bronze
Description: Bronze is a copper-tin alloy known for its exceptional strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and good machinability rating. It provides excellent bearing properties and is commonly used for bearings, gears, and precision components.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 7-0 days
Alloys: Aluminum Bronze (9-11% Al), Phosphor Bronze (0.3-0.5% P, 5-10% Sn), Silicon Bronze (3-6% Si)
Finishing Options: Polishing, Passivation, Vibratory Tumbling, Electroplating
Copper
Description: Copper provides unparalleled electrical and thermal conductivity second only to silver, with excellent antimicrobial properties and corrosion resistance. It is commonly used for busbars, heat sinks, and electrical connectors.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 5-8 days
Alloys: Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC, C1020), Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper (ETP, C11000), Phosphorus Deoxidized Copper (C12200), Pure Copper, Tough Pitch Copper
Finishing Options: Polishing, Passivation, Electroplating, Anodizing
Magnesium
Description: Magnesium alloy is the lightest structural metal with excellent strength-to-weight ratio and superior machinability, commonly used for transmission cases, steering wheels, and engine blocks. It offers exceptional vibration damping and electromagnetic shielding properties.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 5-7 days
Alloys: AZ91D, AM60B, AM50A, AS41B, ZK60, WE43
Finishing Options: Anodizing, Chemical Conversion Coating, Powder Coating, Polishing
Stainless Steel
Description: Stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and durability with superior formability. Grade 304 offers excellent forming capability while Grade 36 provides enhanced corrosion resistance in chloride environments.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 7-4 days
Alloys: 304, 316, 316L, 420, 17-4 PH
Finishing Options: Passivation, Polishing, Electroplating, Media Blasting
Titanium
Description: Titanium alloys provide excellent strength-to-weight ratio, superior corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility, commonly used for compressor blades, surgical equipment, and pressure vessels. They maintain excellent properties at elevated temperatures.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 4-2 days
Alloys: Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V), Grade 2, Grade 7, Grade 23
Finishing Options: Anodizing, Polishing, Passivation, Chemical Etching
Acrylic
Delrin
HDPE
Nylon
PEEK
Polypropylene
PPS
PTFE
PVC
FR4
PE (Polyethylene)
Acrylic
Description: Acrylic is a transparent plastic known for its excellent strength, rigidity, and optical clarity. It is lightweight—about half the weight of glass—but offers many times the impact resistance. Acrylic is easy to machine, bonds well, and thermoforms easily. Widely used in signage, displays, architectural glazing, and LED lighting panels with superior weather resistance.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 2-4 days
Colors / Finishes: Clear, black, white, various colors
Delrin
Description: Delrin (Acetal) is a high-performance thermoplastic with excellent wear resistance, high strength, and dimensional stability. It remains tough and stable under extreme conditions with low friction, especially in wet environments, reducing wear. Commonly used as a metal replacement in automotive, electrical, and medical components.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 3-5 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural white, black, brown
HDPE
Description: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a widely used thermoplastic with rigidity and excellent chemical resistance. It is ideal for containers storing liquids, food, and chemicals. HDPE is lightweight, easy to machine and weld, and available with UV-resistant formulations for outdoor use.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 2-3 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural white, black, customizable colors
Nylon
Description: Nylon is a versatile engineering thermoplastic with high strength, excellent wear resistance, and good chemical resistance. It is tough, elastic, and resistant to oils and many chemicals. Nylon dries quickly and is widely used in apparel, industrial belts, airbags, and mechanical parts manufacturing.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 3-5 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural white, black, various engineering colors
PEEK
Description: PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) is a high-performance engineering plastic with outstanding chemical resistance, mechanical strength, and dimensional stability. It can withstand continuous use at temperatures up to 338°F (170°C). PEEK resists hydrolysis and is used in aerospace, oil & gas, food processing, and semiconductor industries.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 7-10 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural brown, black, custom colors
Polypropylene
Description: Polypropylene is a popular plastic for manufacturing products with incredible chemical resistance. It handles acidic solutions well and is ideal for cleaning product containers. It is tough with excellent energy absorption and resists cracking under twisting and bending. Also electrically resistant, making it suitable for electronics.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 2-4 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural translucent, white, black, multiple colors
PPS
Description: PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide) is a high-end technical plastic with excellent heat resistance, mechanical properties, electrical insulation, chemical stability, and wear resistance. It can operate continuously at 200-240°C without deformation or loss of properties. PPS is a superior electrical insulator over a wide voltage range.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 5-7 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural brown, black, custom colors
PTFE
Description: PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is a durable, flexible elastomer with outstanding chemical resistance and excellent thermal and electrical properties. It has the lowest coefficient of friction among solids and operates safely from -30°C to +200°C. Its chemical inertness makes it ideal for sensitive environments like laboratories.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 4-6 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural white, black, customizable colors
PVC
Description: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a versatile and cost-effective thermoplastic with good electrical insulation due to high dielectric strength. It resists weathering, chemical corrosion, impact, and abrasion. High chlorine content gives PVC self-extinguishing properties. It offers excellent physical and mechanical performance with low maintenance requirements.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 2-3 days
Colors / Finishes: White, gray, black, multiple colors
FR4
Description: FR4 is a flame-resistant glass epoxy laminate composed of woven fiberglass cloth impregnated with epoxy resin and cured under high pressure and temperature. It offers exceptional mechanical strength, excellent electrical insulation properties, and outstanding dimensional stability with near zero water absorption. FR4 maintains its high mechanical values and electrical insulating qualities in both dry and humid conditions, making it ideal for electrical insulators, printed circuit boards, and electronic enclosures.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 7-10 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural yellow-green, custom colors available
PE (Polyethylene)
Description: Polyethylene is a widely used thermoplastic polymer with high chemical, electrical and thermal properties, able to withstand different environmental conditions. It offers excellent chemical resistance to water, salt solutions, acids, alkalis, alcohol and gasoline, making it popular for fuel containers and tanks production. PE is physiologically harmless, tasteless and odorless, making it suitable for food industry applications with excellent machinability and recyclability.
Mill Lead Time: As fast as 2-3 days
Colors / Finishes: Natural white, black, customizable colors
5 Axis CNC Machining Tolerances
At Anebon, we adhere to ISO 2768 (medium) standards for plastics and ISO 2768 (fine) standards for metals. Our CNC machining consistently delivers tolerances ranging from ±0.005″ (±0.125mm) to ±0.002″ (±0.05mm), guaranteeing high precision across various applications.
For more stringent demands, we are capable of achieving tolerances between ±0.01mm and ±0.005mm, ensuring exceptional accuracy and optimal performance.
Type |
Tolerance |
|---|---|
| Standard Tolerances | Metals: ISO 2768-f / Plastics: ISO 2768-m |
| Maximum Part Size | 157.5 × 59.1 × 23.6 inch |
| Minimum Part Size | 0.1 × 0.1 inch |
| Minimum Feature Size | Φ 0.00197 inch |
| Linear Dimension | ± 0.001 inch |
| Hole Diameters (Not Reamed) | ± 0.001 inch |
| Shaft Diameters | ± 0.001 inch |
Surface Finish Choices For 5 Axis CNC Machining Parts
| Picture | Name | Applicable Materials | Colors | Can Be Applied with |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Chem Film | Aluminum | Clear, gold | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Type II Anodizing* Type III Anodizing with PTFE* |
 |
Anodizing | Aluminum | Clear, black, grey, red, blue, gold | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Chem film* |
 |
Black Oxide | Steel, Stainless Steel | Black | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Passivation |
 |
Electroless Nickel Plating | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel | — | Media Blasting, Tumbling |
 |
Electropolishing | Steel, Stainless Steel | — | — |
 |
Hand Polishing | Acrylic | — | Enhanced Cosmetic Appearance |
 |
Media Blasting | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass, Bronze, Copper | — | All post processes, except Electropolish and Powder Coat |
 |
Nickel Plating | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel | — | Media Blasting, Tumbling |
 |
Passivation | Steel, Stainless Steel | — | Black Oxide, Electroless Nickel Plating, Zinc Plating, Tumbling, Media Blasting |
 |
Powder Coating Services | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel | Full Pantone or RAL color catalog | — |
 |
Tumbling | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass, Bronze, Copper | — | All post processes, except Electropolish and Powder Coat |
 |
Zinc Plating | Steel, Stainless Steel | Clear (light blue coating). Black (glossy black coating). | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Passivation |
Why Order 5 Axis CNC Machining Parts From Anebon?
Relentless Quality Standards
Our ISO 2768-m and ISO 9001 certifications reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence. With every order, we provide comprehensive quality assurance documentation for full transparency.
Efficient Digital Workflow
Optimize your supply chain with our seamless online platform. Simply upload your project specifications, and we ensure rapid turnaround—delivering precision-machined parts within 5-7 business days.
Cutting-Edge Precision Engineering
Anebon Metal utilizes cutting-edge automated 5-axis machining systems, operating the most advanced high-precision CNC equipment to deliver superior manufacturing outcomes. Our industry-leading production capabilities consistently achieve exceptional dimensional accuracy, reliably maintaining ultra-tight tolerances within an impressive ±0.005mm range.
Committed Client Support
Our expert technical sales team delivers proactive post-delivery support and tailored engineering solutions with complete project oversight. We take full responsibility for resolving any challenges, ensuring clients experience a seamless journey from initial consultation to final delivery with absolute confidence and satisfaction.
Gallery Of Our CNC Turning Parts
Applications Of CNC Turning
Precision Aerospace Component Manufacturing
Anebon Metal uses 5-axis machining for aircraft engine parts, enabling precise contouring and complex geometries that improve performance and lifespan.
Precision Medical Component Machining
Medical equipment relies on 5-axis machining for high-precision implants and instruments, producing complex shapes with tight tolerances in one setup.
Precision Engine Component Production
Anebon Metal machines engine parts like cylinder heads and crankshafts with 5-axis technology, achieving accurate complex surfaces and strict dimensions.
Precision PCB Prototype Development
5-axis machining at Anebon Metal creates PCB prototypes with micrometer precision, allowing precise copper etching and microvia formation from multiple angles.
Precision UAV Component Manufacturing
Anebon Metal’s 5-axis machining fabricates UAS components, precisely shaping drone parts in aluminum, composites, and polymers with computer-controlled accuracy.
FAQ
How do I know if my part really needs 5-axis machining instead of 3-axis?
If your part has complex geometries like undercuts, multi-angle surfaces, or requires machining from multiple directions in one setup, 5-axis machining is necessary. It reduces multiple setups, improves accuracy, and enables machining of intricate shapes impossible or inefficient on 3-axis machines.
What types of materials can you machine with 5-axis, and do you handle specialty or high-temperature alloys?
5-axis machining supports a wide range of materials including aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, nickel alloys, tool steels, and engineering plastics. We also handle specialty and high-temperature alloys commonly used in aerospace, medical, and automotive industries with full material certification on request.
How much faster is 5-axis machining compared to traditional methods?
By machining multiple faces in a single setup and using shorter cutting tools at optimal angles, 5-axis machining significantly reduces cycle times and setup times. This can cut production time by up to 50% or more compared to 3-axis machining, improving throughput without sacrificing quality.
What is the typical accuracy and surface finish achievable with 5-axis machining?
5-axis machining delivers high precision with tolerances often down to ±0.01mm, and superior surface finishes due to continuous tool engagement and optimal cutter orientation. This is critical for aerospace, medical, and mold industries where tight tolerances and smooth surfaces are mandatory.
How complex is programming and operating a 5-axis machine? Will it delay my project?
While 5-axis programming is more complex than 3-axis, modern CAM software and experienced programmers minimize programming time. Many shops offer design optimization and simulation to avoid collisions and ensure smooth production. Operator training is streamlined with advanced controls, so it typically does not cause project delays.
Can 5-axis machining reduce the number of setups and improve part consistency?
Yes, 5-axis machining’s ability to access multiple surfaces in one setup reduces the need for repositioning. This minimizes human error, improves dimensional consistency, and reduces fixture costs, leading to higher overall quality and faster delivery.
What industries and part types benefit most from 5-axis machining?
Industries like aerospace, automotive (especially EV components), medical devices, defense, energy, and mold & die manufacturing benefit greatly. Parts such as turbine blades, injector bodies, optical mounts, complex molds, and hydraulic components require the precision and multi-angle access that 5-axis machines provide.
How do I get a quote, and what information should I provide?
To get an accurate quote, provide a detailed 3D CAD model (STEP, IGES, Parasolid) along with technical drawings specifying tolerances, surface finish, and critical features. This allows precise evaluation of complexity, materials, and machining time. Quotes are typically provided within 24-48 hours.