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5 axis cnc machining service for complex parts

5-Axis CNC Milling Services

Get custom 5-axis machined parts for
small batch and production runs.

Rapid prototyping
and full-scale production
ISO accredited
& QC checks
All in-house
processes
Used in over
50 countries
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5-Axis CNC Machining and Milling Services

5 Axis CNC Machining is our top choice for producing complex geometries and intricate shapes that would be challenging or impossible to achieve with 3- or 4- axis machining. Thanks to its precision and versatility, our 5-axis milling services have been used to create a variety of complex parts in various industries, such as: medical, aerospace, automotive, marine, bio-tech and more.

5-axis milling machines have opened the possibility for parts to be “Done in One,” reducing setup and cycle times as well as reorientation costs. The high throughput of these machines make 5-axis ideal for precision machining complex low-mix, high-volume production runs.

Our capabilitiesDescription
Machine size3000 x 1200 x 850 mm
On-site machines100+
Materials200+ metals, plastics, carbon fibre
Standard tolerance±0.05mm (metals), ±0.2mm (plastics)
Fast lead timesFrom 5 days

5 axis cnc machining services and capabilities

CNC Milling Materials

MetalsAluminium (2024, 6061, 6063, 6082, 7075, ADC12), Bronze, Brass, Copper, Stainless Steel (201, 301, 304, 316, 409), Steel (Galvanized, Hot Rolled, Cold Rolled, Alloys, Low Carbon, High Carbon, Tool Steel), Titanium Alloy, Magnesium Alloy, Zinc Alloy, etc.
PlasticsABS, PMMA (Acrylic), POM (Acetel/Delrin), Anti-static POM, PC, PC+ABS,PA (Nylon), PA+GF, PP, PE, PPO, PPSU, PBT, PPS, PVC, Transparent PVC, EPP, PEEK, PTFE, PEI, Polyester, Bakelite, Silicone, etc.
CompositesCarbon Fibre

Precision Machining Tolerance

At HLH, our standard machining tolerance for prototypes and production runs is ISO-2678 Fine (F) for metals and Medium (M) for plastics, with tighter tolerances available upon request. Contact our team at info@hlhrapid.com for further information.

 

Metals With DrawingMetals No DrawingPlastics With DrawingPlastics No Drawing
Linear Dimension±0.01mmISO 2768 Fine±0.05mmISO 2768 Medium
Hole Diameters±0.008mmISO 2768 Fine±0.05mmISO 2768 Medium
Shaft Diameters±0.004mmISO 2768 Fine±0.05mmISO 2768 Medium

What is 5-Axis CNC Milling Used For?

5-axis machines are used to create highly complex geometries and intricate parts with high precision, which would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional 3-axis milling. At HLH, our 5-axis milling services have been used to create a variety of complex parts, including engine blocks, cylinder heads, gearboxes, and pumps. 

5-axis machines are particularly useful for complex parts. However, if you only need a single part with less intricate geometries, 3- and 4-axis machining can often be a more cost-effective solution.

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3-axis vs 5-axis CNC

Key Aspects of 3-Axis Machining

  • Constrained to linear axes: X, Y, and Z.
  • The tool is fixed in a vertical or horizontal position.
  • Can only approach the workpiece from perpendicular angles.
  • Better suited for rapid prototyping, small batch production, and machining simpler geometries.

 

Key Aspects of 5-Axis Machining

  • Can perform all 3-axis movements, with added rotation on A and B axes.
  • Typically it is the bed that rotates rather than the toolhead.
  • Added rotation allows for more creative and efficient machining setups.
  • Better suited for production quantities, highly complex parts, and intricate geometries.

difference between 5 axis and 3 axis cnc machining

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

5-axis CNC machining is an incredibly versatile subtractive manufacturing technique that operates simultaneously along five different axes (X, Y, Z, A, and B) to remove material from a solid workpiece, allowing for complex and intricate cuts in a single setup.

5-axis machining is one of the most advanced processes available today. Its advantages include high accuracy and reliability, fewer machine setups, increased efficiency, the ability to produce complex and intricate geometries, enhanced surface finishes, and improved drilling capabilities.

The cost of 5-axis CNC machining in the US and Europe can range from $75 to $150 per hour, or even higher in some cases. It can vary significantly depending on several factors including part complexity, quality of the machine, skill of the operator and the specific industry. 

5-axis milling services are typically more affordable in China due to lower labour costs for skilled machinists. For less complex parts or bulk production, rates starting around $30 per hour are not uncommon, but again, the cost can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the service, part complexity, and the location of the machining service within China.

Learn how workshops calculate the cost of your CNC part.

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