What is "5-axis machining"

5-axis machining refers to a CNC machining process that uses five axes of motion to produce complex shapes and geometries. The five axes are typically labeled X, Y, Z, A, and B.

The X, Y, and Z axis are the same three used in a traditional CNC mill or CNC router. The A and B axes are rotary axes that rotate the work or the spindle.

In 5-axis machining, the cutting tool can move along all 5 axes simultaneously, allowing for multi-sided machining in a single setup and more complicated geometries with undercuts or other features that might not be accessible with a traditional 3-axis mill.

The down side of 5-axis machines is a significant increase in machine and software costs compared to a 3-axis machine.