Complex compound curves, undercuts and multi-face features machined in a single setup. Tolerances to ±0.001 mm for aerospace, medical and precision mould applications.
Understanding when to specify 5-axis machining saves time and budget. Here's the practical comparison.
Brackets, plates, housings with simple geometry
Turbine blades, impellers, implants, complex moulds
Not all 5-axis work is the same. We offer both approaches and will recommend the most cost-effective option for your part.
The part is tilted and locked at a fixed angle using the A and B axes, then milled with standard 3-axis motion. Each face is machined in sequence without removing the part from the machine.
All five axes move continuously and simultaneously. The tool maintains optimal orientation relative to the surface throughout the entire cut — enabling true freeform machining.
5-axis machining delivers advantages that 3-axis simply cannot match for complex geometry.
Eliminates repositioning errors between setups. Critical for tight-tolerance assemblies where datum consistency is non-negotiable.
Undercuts, compound angles, and freeform surfaces that are simply impossible on 3-axis equipment — machined in a single operation.
Optimal tool orientation maintained throughout the cut. Fewer passes, shorter cycle time, smoother finish down to Ra 0.4μm.
One setup replaces four to five separate operations. Faster turnaround without sacrificing dimensional accuracy.
Meets flight-critical tolerances on titanium, Inconel, and aluminium. Full material traceability certificates provided.
Surgical instruments, implant trials, and biocompatible material machining. AS9100 & ISO 13485-aligned processes.
Our 5-axis machining centres achieve tolerances and surface finishes that exceed most 3-axis capabilities.
| Specification | 3+2 Indexed | Full 5-Axis |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tolerance | ±0.005mm | ±0.003mm |
| Achievable Tolerance | ±0.002mm | ±0.001mm |
| Max Part Size | 500×400×300mm | 400×350×250mm |
| Min Feature Size | 0.3mm | 0.2mm |
| Surface Finish Ra | 0.8μm | 0.4μm |
| Angular Positioning | ±0.01° | Continuous |
| Best For | Angled features | Complex curves |
We machine the most demanding aerospace and medical-grade materials:
5-axis machining is the process of choice for the most demanding geometric challenges.
±0.001–0.003mm
±0.002–0.005mm
±0.003–0.008mm
Five practical design guidelines to reduce cost, improve quality, and avoid common 5-axis pitfalls.
Design compound angles as single contiguous features where possible. Each additional compound datum adds cost and potential error.
Tools below 1mm diameter require significantly slower feed rates, longer cycle times, and higher cost. Design features ≥1mm where feasible.
Avoid features deeper than 5× the tool diameter. Deeper cavities require special tooling, slower speeds, and risk chatter.
Uniform wall thickness reduces vibration during cutting. Thin, unsupported walls flex under tool pressure and produce chatter marks.
Supply both a 3D STEP file and a 2D drawing with key dimensions and critical tolerances called out. This eliminates ambiguity in quoting and production.
Upload your CAD files for a free DFM review and detailed quote within 24 hours.
Free technical articles from Ginwate senior engineers
What is the real difference between 5-axis and 3-axis CNC machining? This guide covers capabilities, part complexity, cost, and when each process makes sense.
Aerospace CNC machining operates under strict regulatory and quality requirements. This guide covers AS9100, common aerospace alloys, first article inspection (FAI), and what to look for in an aerospace machining supplier.
Medical CNC machining demands biocompatible materials, ISO 13485 quality management, full material traceability, and validated processes. Here is what to expect from a qualified medical machining supplier.
