Why 5-Axis machining makes a difference to complex components
As components become more complex, the way they're manufactured becomes increasingly important. Angles, contours, holes, pockets and features across multiple faces can all add complexity to the machining process. Traditionally, producing these features may require a component to be repositioned and reset several times however, 5-axis machining changes what's possible.
At Standish Engineering, our investment in two Haas UMC-750 5-axis machining centres gives our engineers greater flexibility when manufacturing complex, multi-sided components.
But what exactly does 5-axis machining mean and why does it matter? A conventional 3-axis machine moves along three linear directions. 5-axis machining introduces additional rotational movement, allowing the cutting tool to approach a component from more directions.
Our Haas UMC-750 machines support both 3+2 machining and simultaneous 5-axis machining, giving our engineers different options depending on the geometry and requirements of the component. The technology is impressive, but the real value is in what it allows us to achieve.
Imagine a component requiring machining on several different faces. With a more conventional approach, the component may need to be removed, repositioned and accurately set again before the next face can be machined. 5-axis capability can allow several of those operations to take place within the same setup. That can mean less handling and fewer opportunities for variation to be introduced between operations.
Supporting complex geometry
Some components simply aren't straightforward. Curved surfaces, unusual angles and intricate features can present significant machining challenges.
The additional movement available through 5-axis technology gives engineers greater freedom to approach these features from the most appropriate angle. This expands the range of complex component geometries that can be manufactured efficiently.
Reducing the number of times a component needs to be repositioned can also help maintain relationships between features machined on different faces. When precision is critical, this can be an important advantage.
Combined with accurate programming, appropriate tooling and robust inspection, 5-axis machining provides another way of supporting consistent, high-quality manufacturing.
Owning a 5-axis machining centre doesn't automatically make a complex component straightforward to produce, the manufacturing strategy still needs to be developed. Programming, tool selection, work holding, cutting conditions and material behaviour all need to be considered, that's why we see machinery investment and skills investment as going hand in hand. Advanced technology provides the capability, whereas experienced engineers determine how best to use it.
Our customers' requirements continue to develop, and the components we're asked to manufacture can be increasingly complex. Investing in advanced CNC technology allows us to broaden our capabilities while improving efficiency, consistency and accuracy. Having two Haas UMC-750 machines also gives us additional 5-axis capacity to support customer requirements.
For Standish Engineering, investing in machinery isn't about technology for technology's sake,it's about giving our team the tools to solve manufacturing challenges and deliver better outcomes for our customers.
Have a complex or multi-sided component you need manufacturing?
Send us your drawing and let our team take a look.
📞 01257 422 838
📧 info@cnc-machining.co.uk
🌍 www.standishengineering.co.uk