5-Axis CNC Machining Services
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- High Precision for Complex Parts
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5 Axis Machining With RapidDirect
RapidDirect’s 5-axis machining services offer unparallel speed and flexibility. With an extensive range of advanced 5-axis CNC machines and a long list of materials, RapidDirect has the capability to deliver the best 5-axis machined parts.
Our experienced team and manufacturing capabilities help rapidly design and fabricate complex, time-sensitive components. With world-class equipment, expertise, and experience, RapidDirect uses two outstanding setups to provide precise, complex parts.
Why Choose 5-Axis Machining with 3ERP
With so many precision machining providers available, why partner with 3ERP? Here are four key reasons that make us stand out:
Fast Turnaround Times
With over 10 advanced 5-axis CNC machines in-house, we deliver both prototypes and production parts quickly and reliably. Need it faster? Our expedited machining options help you meet tight deadlines with ease.
High-Performance Machinery
We operate top-tier HAAS and JingDiao 5-axis CNC machines, supported by a state-of-the-art on-site inspection system to ensure ultra-tight tolerances and consistent quality.
Engineering Expertise
Beyond just machining capabilities, our engineers work closely with you to optimize your design and offer valuable suggestions, ensuring better performance, cost-efficiency, and manufacturability.
Trusted Across Industries
We serve diverse industries—from aerospace to electronics—providing precise, reliable machining solutions for every application.
What is 5-axis Machining?
5-axis CNC machining is an advanced manufacturing process that allows the cutting tool to move simultaneously across five different axes. This capability is essential for producing complex, high-precision parts with greater efficiency and fewer setups. Industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing rely on 5-axis machining services for intricate components that require extreme accuracy.
Simultaneous 5-Axis Machining
All five axes move simultaneously.
Simultaneous (or continuous) 5-axis machining is a form of 5-axis machining in which the machine can continually adjust movement on all five axes without pause. Simultaneous 5-axis CNC can be very fast, since there are no breaks between passes of the cutting tool.
- Complexity: Handles highly complex geometries and parts with tight tolerance in one setup
- Surface Quality: Produces smoother finishes with fewer tool marks
- Efficiency: Faster production with fewer setups
- Best For: Aerospace, medical, and intricate components
- Cost & Investment: Higher machine and programming costs
3+2 Axis Machining
Three axes move while two are fixed at an angle.
Another form of 5-axis machining is 3+2-axis, in which the machine can only move on the 4th and 5th axes (adjusting the angle of the cutting tool) when the cutting tool isn’t moving along the X, Y and Z axes. This form of 5-axis machining can be slower than simultaneous 5-axis CNC, but may result in more rigid parts and longer tool life.
- Complexity: Suitable for parts requiring multi-angle positioning
- Surface Quality: May require additional finishing due to repositioning
- Efficiency: Slower than full 5-axis but still more efficient than 3-axis
- Best For: Large, prismatic parts with angled features
- Cost & Investment: More cost-effective alternative to full 5-axis
CNC Milling Materials
At 3ERP, we provide a full range of CNC milling surface finishes that enhance both functionality and appearance, improving durability, resistance to corrosion, and aesthetics as part of our comprehensive CNC machining process.
Aluminum is a highly versatile CNC machining material known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and overall durability. It machines exceptionally well, allowing for high speeds, tight tolerances, and cost-efficient production. Its balance of performance, finish quality, and reliability makes it a go-to choice for a wide range of CNC-machined components.
The following aluminum materials can be found on Xometry’s quoting menu:
- 2024
- 2A12
- 5052
- 5083
- 6061
- 6063
- 7075
- MIC-6
Plastics offer exceptional versatility in CNC machining, providing lightweight strength, chemical resistance, and excellent electrical and thermal insulation. We offer options ranging from general-purpose to high-performance engineering plastics, which enable cost-effective solutions across a wide range of design and performance requirements.
Our machinable plastics include:
- ABS
- Acetal (POM)
- Delrin
- Acrylic
- HDPE
- Nylon 6/6
- PC
- PEEK / PEEK GF30
- UHMW PE
- ULTEM 1000
- PP
Brass, bronze, and copper are known for their excellent machinability, wear resistance, and conductivity. These materials produce smooth finishes, retain fine details, and perform well in applications requiring durability or electrical and thermal efficiency.
Xometry auto-quotes the following brass, bronze, and copper materials:
- 260 (Brass)
- C110
- C932 (Bronze)
- C360 (Brass)
- 110
Stainless steels are valued for their exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability. They deliver reliable performance in demanding environments while maintaining precision, making them well-suited for high-strength, wear-resistant components.
Xometry offers stainless steel alloys such as:
- Stainless Steel 17-4
- 300 Series Stainless Steel (e.g., 303, 304, 316)
- 400 Series Stainless Steel (e.g., 410, 416, 420, 440C)
Carbon and tool steels are trusted for their strength, toughness, and versatility. They can be machined to precise tolerances and can be heat-treated for enhanced hardness and wear resistance, making them ideal for durable, high-performance components.
Xometry’s steel options include:
- 1018
- 1215
- 4130
- 4140
- 4340
- A36
- Tool Steel A2
- Tool Steel O1
CNC Milling Surface Finishes
At 3ERP, we provide a full range of CNC milling surface finishes that enhance both functionality and appearance, improving durability, resistance to corrosion, and aesthetics as part of our comprehensive CNC machining process.
As Machined Finish
Milled parts come directly from the machine with visible tool marks and a slightly rough surface. Ideal for functional prototypes or internal components where precision is critical, offering fast turnaround and cost savings.
Anodized (Type II or Type III)
Type II creates a corrosion-resistant finish. Parts can be anodized in different colors—clear, black, red, and gold are most common—and are usually associated with aluminum. Type III, also known as hardcoat anodizing, is thicker and creates a wear-resistant layer in addition to the corrosion resistance seen with Type II.
Sandblasting & Bead Blasting
The part is cleaned, deburred, and placed in an abrasive blaster where surface deposits are removed by applying fine glass beads at high pressure, without damaging the surface. Bead blasted parts will have a matte or satin-like appearance.
Sanding & Polishing
Removes tool marks and rough areas, delivering smooth, glossy surfaces while maintaining dimensional accuracy. Perfect for customer-facing parts and high-end prototypes.
Powder Coat & Paint
Powder coat and wet paints provide a durable, protective layer that resists corrosion, wear, and UV damage. They offer a uniform, attractive appearance while preserving the underlying part’s precision and performance.
Chemical Finishes
These are treatments that enhance the surface properties of machined parts without significantly altering dimensions. Processes such as chromate conversion, passivation, black oxide, and electropolishing improve corrosion resistance, surface cleanliness, appearance, and in some cases, lubricity or electrical performance.
Complex 5-Axis CNC Milling Projects
Over the years, we’ve successfully tackled various complex machining challenges—delivering precise, reliable solutions for parts with intricate and unconventional shapes. Explore the case studies below to see how our 5-axis CNC machining services bring high-precision parts to life.
Automation Equipment MountingBracket
Used for structural positioning and componentmounting in your industrial automation systemswhere dimensional accuracy is non-negotiable.
- Material
- Finish
- Tolerance
- Application
- Aluminum 6061-T6
- Black Anodizing
- ±0.01mm
- Industrial Automation
Automation Equipment MountingBracket
Used for structural positioning and componentmounting in your industrial automation systemswhere dimensional accuracy is non-negotiable.
- Material
- Finish
- Tolerance
- Application
- Aluminum 6061-T6
- Black Anodizing
- ±0.01mm
- Industrial Automation
Automation Equipment MountingBracket
Used for structural positioning and componentmounting in your industrial automation systemswhere dimensional accuracy is non-negotiable.
- Material
- Finish
- Tolerance
- Application
- Aluminum 6061-T6
- Black Anodizing
- ±0.01mm
- Industrial Automation
5 Axis CNC Machining Design Guidelines
Optimize your parts for precision, efficiency, and cost with these essential design tips for 5-axis CNC machining.
| Feature | Guideline |
| Minimum Feature Size | Minimum feature size should be no less than 0.5 mm in width or depth to ensure structural integrity. |
| Linear Dimension | Maintain a precision within ±0.005 mm for linear dimensions to ensure accuracy across the machined part. |
| Hole Diameters (not reamed) | Holes can be machined with diameters starting from 1 mm up to 40 mm without reaming for precision sizing. |
| Shaft Diameters | Shaft diameters should range from 2 mm to 300 mm, considering the tool accessibility and torque requirements. |
| Threads and Tapped Holes | Threads from M2 to M24 can be machined. Ensure to provide adequate relief at the bottom of tapped holes. |
| Text | Minimum text height of 1.5 mm with a depth of 0.5 mm for clarity after machining. |
5-Axis CNC Machining FAQ
Can 5-axis machining provide tight tolerance?
Yes, 5-axis CNC machining is renowned for its ability to achieve exceptionally tight tolerances. It can typically maintain precision within ±0.005 mm. This high level of accuracy is due to the machine’s capability to access five sides of a part in a single setup, reducing the number of setups required and minimizing errors associated with repositioning. The simultaneous movement along five axes allows for closer tool paths, ensuring precise adherence to design specifications, especially for complex geometries.
How much does your 5-axis milling service cost?
The cost of 5-axis CNC milling services can vary widely based on several factors such as the complexity of the part, the type of material used, and the required precision. Generally, prices might range from $75 to $250 per hour depending on these variables. For a specific quote, it’s best to provide detailed drawings and specify material requirements on RapidDirect online platform so that a more accurate estimation can be calculated. Remember, while 5-axis machining might have a higher hourly rate, it often reduces the total production time and number of setups needed.
When should I choose 5-axis CNC machining?
Opt for 5-axis CNC machining when manufacturing parts with complex geometries, intricate details, or when high precision is critical. This technology is ideal for parts that require machining from multiple sides in a single setup or where multiple tool angles are necessary to achieve the design. Industries such as aerospace, medical, and automotive, where the geometrical complexities and tight tolerances are common, significantly benefit from 5-axis machining. It is also preferable when aiming to reduce lead times and improve surface finishes without compromising on detail.
What’s the difference between 5-axis machining and 3-aixs machining?
The main difference between 5-axis and 3-axis machining lies in their respective capabilities and the complexity of parts they can handle. 3-axis machining operates along three axes (X, Y, and Z), suitable for parts with relatively simple geometries. It typically requires multiple setups and repositioning to reach all sides of the part. Conversely, 5-axis machining adds two additional rotational axes, allowing the cutting tool to approach the part from virtually any direction. This capability makes it ideal for complex shapes, reducing setup times and improving precision by minimizing handling.
What is 5-axis CNC machining?
5-axis CNC machining is an advanced form of computer numerical control (CNC) technology that allows a machine to move a tool or part along five different axes simultaneously. This enables the machine to create highly complex shapes and features in a single setup, increasing precision and efficiency. It’s commonly used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical for creating intricate components.
How does a 5-axis CNC machine work?
A 5-axis CNC machine operates by allowing the cutting tool or part to move in five different directions: along the X, Y, and Z axes, and rotating around the A and B axes. This capability allows for machining complex geometries without needing multiple setups or repositioning, which reduces human error and increases accuracy. The machine’s advanced software ensures precise control over every movement.
What is the tolerance of 5 axis CNC machining?
RapidDirect’s 5-axis CNC machining can achieve extremely tight tolerances, often tighter than ±0.001 inches, depending on the material and part complexity. Their advanced machines and strict inspection processes ensure parts are manufactured according to your design specifications and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) requirements, delivering precise, high-quality components.