High-Precision 5-Axis Machining for Aerospace, Defense, Space

Multi-axis machining for aerospace projects requires an experienced and reliable partner like Intrex Aerospace who can deliver tight tolerance, quality components. As an ISO 9001 and AS9100 certified aerospace manufacturer, we have the facility, the experience, and quality control systems necessary to produce the high-quality precision machined components the aerospace, defense, and space industry requires.

Defining 5-Axis CNC Machining

Five-axis simultaneous machining offers a great solution for producing complex machined parts and meeting aerospace, defense, and space requirements. There are several ways to define and implement 5-axis machining. Many companies advertise 5-axis capabilities, when in fact they machine up to 4 axes simultaneously and use the 5^th axis to machine while the part is in a fixed position (4+1 axes). Intrex is capable of true 5-axis simultaneous machining. This involves using a CNC to move a part or cutting tool along five different axes simultaneously. This enables the machining of very complex parts. Because of this capability, 5-axis is especially popular for complex aerospace and space applications.

There are several advantages to using 5-axis simultaneous machining:

• The ability to hold the part in a single chucking greatly reduces the need for multiple setups. This setup reduction is very beneficial in helping reduce tolerance “stack up”, which helps eliminate scrap and produces overall quality improvement. It also leads to greater operating efficiencies with less operator intervention, and reduction of lead times.
• Five-axis simultaneous machine tools have the ability to minimize or avoid collisions between the part, the cutting tool, and the machine. The 5-axis design allows tilting of the tool holder or the chucking device. This also allows provision for better tool clearance and fewer restrictions in generating true part geometry.
• In most 5-axis applications, you will also be able to achieve improved tool life and cycle time. The design of the 5-axis machine tool allows for the tilting of the tool or chucking device, which helps maintain optimum cutting position and constant chip load.

Our facility has multiple CNC multi-axis machines (vertical and horizontal centers, and 5-axis CNC turning lathes). The multi-axis machines can reduce the need for multiple setups, reducing the chance for error stack up. Our 5-axis simultaneous machining capability allows us to produce complex machine shapes.

We produce multiple configurations of thin-wall/ turn/mill machined parts, in a variety of sizes and materials. We produce these type parts in both high, medium and low volume.  We are also ITAR compliant, allowing us to produce parts for government aerospace defense projects.