What is 5-axis milling?

Falks Metall explains what 5-axis milling means, how it differs from 3-axis milling — and what advantages the technology has in manufacturing complex components.

Difference between 3-axis and 5-axis milling

In a traditional milling machine, the tool moves in three directions:
X (left—right), Y (front—back) and Z (up—down).
This goes a long way, but not all the way for today's most complex details.

3-axlig fräsning visualisering

With 5-axis milling, two rotary movements are added, usually called A- and C-axis. This means that the workpiece can be angled and rotated, which allows machining from multiple directions — without the need for reclamping.

5-axlig fräsning visualisering

Advantages of 5-axis milling:

  • Complex geometries: We can produce more advanced parts with fewer working moments.
  • Increased precision: Less risk of errors as the part is not moved between operations.
  • Better surface finish: The tool can always follow the contours optimally.
  • Shorter lead time: More efficient production = faster delivery.

At Falks Metall, we use 4-axis and 5-axis milling for parts where the requirements for tolerances, finishes and geometry are extra high — often in industries such as medical technology, automotive and energy.

When to choose 5-axis machining?

If your component requires machining from multiple angles, tight tolerances, or if you want to streamline your production, 5-axis milling is the right choice.

Contact Falks Metall for help with 4-axis and 5-axis CNC Milling.

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