CNC Machining
One of the most advanced subtractive processes — two rotary axes on top of X/Y/Z for complex geometry in fewer setups.
5-Axis CNC Machining is one of the most advanced subtractive manufacturing technologies in modern precision manufacturing. Building on traditional three-axis systems (X, Y, and Z linear axes), it adds two rotary axes (two of A, B, or C). This lets the cutting tool approach the workpiece from virtually any angle, enabling efficient, high-precision machining of complex shapes.
Five-axis machining adds two rotary axes on top of X, Y, and Z. The tool can tilt into undercuts and compound faces, so a blisk, impeller, or medical contour often finishes in one fixture instead of a chain of 3-axis setups.
AIHFABS quotes both 3+2 indexing and true simultaneous 5-axis. Use this page when a 3-axis mill would need many re-clamps, or when the surface itself is the product.
Accuracy and finish below assume a rigid fixture and marked datums.
| Lead time | Typical tolerance | Capability | Surface finish | Inspection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| From 3–7 business days depending on complexity | ±0.02–0.05 mm on critical features when specified | 3+2 indexed and simultaneous 5-axis | Fine contour finishes; polish/coat optional | CMM / optical methods available for key characteristics |
Aluminum and titanium are common. Nickel alloys are reviewed per program.
Shorter tools and better engagement usually beat a 3-axis scallop on the same contour.
Visible but even scallops on organic faces. Acceptable on many aerospace internals.
Tighter step-over on show surfaces or flow paths before polish or coat.
Hand or machine polish, then anodize, passivate, or paint when the drawing asks.
Pay for 5-axis when setups or surface quality dominate. Simple pockets should stay on 3-axis milling.
| Process | Lead time | Tolerance | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Machining ServicesMetals & plastics | From 1–5 business days depending on complexity and finish | ±0.05 mm standard; tighter on request with drawing callouts | Instant quote · typical prototype from $45 |
| CNC Milling ServicesMetals & plastics | Simple 1–3 days; complex 3–7 days; batch 5–15 days | ±0.01 mm standard; ±0.005 mm high precision | Instant quote · typical prototype from $40 |
| CNC Turning ServicesMetals & plastics | Simple 1–3 days; complex 7–10 days | ±0.01 mm standard; ±0.001–0.002 mm high precision | Instant quote · typical prototype from $35 |
| CNC Routing ServicesPlastics & composites | From 2–4 business days | Medium precision (~±0.025 mm class) | Instant quote · typical panel job from $30 |
| 5-Axis CNC MachiningMetals & plastics | From 3–7 business days depending on complexity | ±0.02–0.05 mm on critical features when specified | Instant quote · typical prototype from $80 |
| Precision Machining ServicesMetals & plastics | From 3–8 business days (complexity dependent) | ±0.005–0.01 mm; Ra 0.4–1.6 μm; CPK ≥ 1.33 | Instant quote · quoted to drawing / inspection grade |
| Large Part CNC MachiningMetals & plastics | Quoted per project (fixturing and logistics driven) | Around ±0.025 mm on critical features; large spans project-dependent | Project quote · fixturing and logistics driven |
| Swiss CNC MachiningMetals & plastics | From 3–7 business days; faster on repeat batches | ±0.005 mm standard; down to ±0.0025 mm when specified | Instant quote · most economical in batch runs |
Programmers build simultaneous or 3+2 toolpaths from a clean solid. Tiny unresolved fillets and open surfaces slow the job down.
In-process probes or a final CMM check cover the GD&T you marked. Cosmetic versus functional faces should be obvious.
Give the tool a path. Geometry that a ball mill cannot see still will not cut.
| Feature | Recommended practice |
|---|---|
| Model quality | A closed solid with sane fillets; avoid paper-thin edges and naked surfaces. |
| Face intent | Mark cosmetic vs functional faces so step-over and polish are not guessed. |
| Tool access | Deep slots narrower than the tool still drive cost on 5-axis. |
| Datums | One clear primary datum set beats a chain of 3-axis re-clamps. |
CNC machining removes material from solid stock with computer-controlled mills, lathes, and multi-axis centers.
Full process details
CNC Milling Services use computer numerical control (CNC) mills to cut workpieces with rotating tools according to programmed toolpaths.
Full process details
CNC Turning Services use computer numerical control lathes to remove material while the workpiece rotates at high speed and the cutting tool feeds along a set path.
Full process detailsNo. 3+2 indexing solves many multi-face parts. Simultaneous motion is for true sculpted surfaces and continuous tool engagement.
±0.02–0.05 mm on marked features is a common planning band. Tighter values need a precision review.
Aluminum, titanium, stainless, and alloy steels are routine. Inconel and similar grades are quoted after a process review.
Many parts leave in 3–7 business days. Impellers, dense toolpaths, and special finishes run longer.
Yes — CMM or optical methods against the marked datums and profiles.
AIHFABS quotes custom 3D printing and CNC machining from a CAD upload. Compare SLA, SLS, MJF, SLM, FDM, DLP, milling, and turning, then add finishing such as vapor smoothing, dyeing, anodizing, polishing, or powder coating in the same order.
Instant quoting is built for prototypes, jigs, housings, and small-batch production. You see material, process, quantity, and lead time together, which keeps engineering changes from turning into a new round of supplier emails.
If this page describes a process, industry, or sample part you want to reproduce, start from the upload flow and match technology plus finishing to your drawing.
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