As a leading provider of CNC machining products, Gosiger is committed to supplying the best, most innovative brands in the industry. For customers that require greater range of motion and flexibility for machining their products, a quality 5-axis CNC machine is the solution. 5-axis machining involves machining the part on three planes – X, Y, and Z – and rotating the piece in order to achieve the desired result.

Bridgeport by Hardinge Inc., is a leading manufacturer and provider of a wide range of highly reliable turning, milling, grinding, and work-holding solutions. One of the products they specialize in is 5-axis CNC machines. Their latest generation of XR-Series 5-axis vertical machining centers promises to bring instant and positive results to your parts creation and manufacturing. The machines unrivalled technology, paired with unwavering commitment to improving the customers’ productivity and business performance contribute to the 5-axis CNC machine’s success.

However, it can be difficult to decide whether or not 5-axis machining is the right solution for your manufacturing business. Understanding how to handle product fabrication using 5 planes will greatly help in making such a decision.

True 5-axis machining is preferred when rotating the piece or part isn’t feasible because of the cuts required. While this allows for greater range of motion and flexibility, the cutting tool is always kept perpendicular to the cutting surface. And although the programming can be more complex in true 5-axis machining, it can be aided by the use of cams.

The second method – sometimes referred to as 3+2 axis machining – is easier to implement. This variable plane technique allows you to use standard programming features like canned cycles and cutter radius compensation. Being able to use standard programming makes this option considerably easier than true 5-axis machining.

For more information on 5-axis machining or Hardinge’s XR-Series 5-Axis vertical machining centers, contact Gosiger today.