What is a 5 axis milling machine?

What is meant by 5-axis milling?

The term “5-axis” refers to the number of directions in which the cutting tool can move. On a 5-axis machining center, the cutting tool moves across the X, Y and Z linear axes as well as rotates on the A and B axes to approach the workpiece from any direction.

What is 5-axis machining used for?

5-Axis machining allows for the cutting tool to remain tangential to the cutting surface. Lower cycle times and costs are achieved because more material can be removed with each tool pass. Better surface finishes result by using the 5-axis capabilities on contoured geometry.

What is the difference between 3 axis and 5-axis CNC?

The main difference between 3-axis, 4-axis and 5-axis machining is the complexity of the movement both the workpiece and the cutting tool can move through, relative to each other. The more complex the motion of the two parts, the more complex the geometry of the final machined part can be.