5-Axis Machining Center Implementation Concerns

Investing in cutting-edge technology is a must for machine shops hoping to remain competitive in the new era of global manufacturing sources. If you invested in a 3-axis machining center earlier, and not a 5-axis machine, you are missing out on the considerable advantages offered through the capabilities of 5-axis machining centers.

The aerospace industry has used 5-axis machining technology for many years but only recently has the tool-making or metalworking industry in general, begun integrating and adopting this technology. The primary advantage of 5-axis machining is the ability to save time by machining complex shapes in a single set-up. Additional benefits come from greater accuracy and allowing the use of shorter, stiffer tools.

Owners of 3-axis machining centers often face multiple set-ups and even then parts must go through several machines to reach the finished stage. These multiple steps increase turn-around time, increase the opportunity for error and can compromise precision. Expand your shop’s opportunity for future work and reduce setup time with 5-axis machining.

You have several choices when implementing a 5-axis machining center solution - for example:

• 5-sided (Positional 5-axis machining) - This alternative is easy to program and cuts faster than simultaneous 5-axis. Also called 3+2, it is preferred in most situations due to its excellent roughing strategy and reduced issues with tool interference.
• Simultaneous 5-axis - When a better finish and deep tool cuts are required this is the method to use. Especially good for deep cavity and tall core molding applications, issues with z-depths are minimized, and fabrication time is shortened.

At Gosiger, we understand that wasted time is wasted money. Our mission is to provide you with the correct and best solution the first time. A partnership with Gosiger will help you meet the challenges of today’s manufacturing environment with a professional, knowledgeable staff and some of the recognized leaders in CNC machine tool technologies.

To learn more about the 5-axis machining center solutions we can engineer for you, contact us today.