Historically, five-axis machine design has essentially used a 3+2 configuration, with the “3” being a three-axis machining center and the “+2” being a rotary/tilt table or head. It was possible to contour with all five axes, but that “+2” could be a machining obstacle in terms of both positioning speed and accuracy.Three-axis machining forces the use of long tools to reach certain workpiece features while five-axis machining facilitates a more rigid tool and toolholder set, enabling more aggressive machining. Other essential components of the latest in five-axis machining include more responsive servo motors, higher thermal stability…READ MORE.