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Discover how five‑axis CNC machining can simultaneously process 28 parts in one setup, boosting productivity and cutting cycle time with optimized fixturing and CAM programming.
As manufacturing demands shift toward higher precision, tighter lead times, and smaller lot sizes, five axis CNC machining has become a critical capability for advanced job shops and production facilities. The ability to machine multiple surfaces in a single setup—while maintaining optimal tool orientation—translates directly into reduced setup times, improved accuracy, and significantly shorter cycle times.
In this article, we explore how simultaneous five axis machining enables efficient processing of multiple parts in a single cycle. We’ll examine best practices in multi-part fixture design, discuss real-world strategies to optimize CNC cycle time for high-volume parts, and illustrate how these approaches can enhance throughput, reduce operator workload, and increase spindle utilization in a competitive machining environment.
In traditional machining, you rely on three linear axes — X, Y and Z. The cutting tool’s direction remains static relative to the workpiece surface during the entire feed path. This limits the tool’s ability to maintain optimal cutting angle, especially on complex surfaces.
In a 3+2 axis setup, two rotary axes are used to tilt or rotate the tool or part, then the tool path proceeds via X, Y, Z linear feed. The machining plane is fixed, while the tool is positioned in advance. For example, a machine may tilt the head or rotate the table to a fixed orientation and then perform conventional linear movements. This reduces setups and provides better angles than pure 3‑axis.
With full five axis machining, the machine moves along X, Y, Z and simultaneously rotates around two additional axes (often designated as A, B or C). In other words, the tool direction and position can continuously change during cutting. This enables you to maintain optimal tool engagement, reduce tool length, improve finish, and reach complex surfaces. The machine works dynamically — tool orientation adapts along the path. This is the core of “simultaneous five axis machining”.
When you combine five axis CNC machining with smart fixture design and CAM programming, you get distinct advantages for large‑volume production:
Reduced setups: You can machine multiple faces of a part without re‑clamping or flipping.
Better tool performance: Tool engagement remains optimal, even on angled features.
High productivity: With multiple parts in the fixture, you reduce idle time and loading/unloading.
Improved accuracy: One setup means fewer repositioning errors and better repeatability.
For example, the Haas UMC‑750 series supports true simultaneous five axis motion, offering a dual‑axis trunnion table with +110°/–35° tilt and 360° rotation. haascnc.com+2haascnc.com+2 This kind of machine enables the strategies described below.
When you target “cnc machining more parts per setup”, fixture strategy is critical. Here are key considerations:
Base plate size & material: Use a robust aluminium base (e.g., 114 mm × 114 mm × 550 mm in the example) to mount multiple parts.
Locating pins: Ensure accurate repeatability across all parts—this is essential when you load dozens of parts.
Minimize clamping time: Use quick‑clamp mechanisms so loading/unloading reduces machine idle time.
Optimize space usage: With a trunnion or rotary table, you can extend fixturing into 360° space, placing many parts around the platter or turning the table during machining.
CAM & program planning: One program should handle all parts in the fixture. By organizing the fixture so each part is identical in orientation, you can run one program for 28 parts rather than 28 programmes.
By applying these design elements, the example achieved a cycle time reduction of ~23.5% (from 264 s down to 202 s per part) just by switching to the multi‑part fixture. This is a powerful illustration of “high volume cnc machining strategy”.
To maximize throughput in a five axis setup, follow these process steps:
Consolidate operations: Combine multiple faces of each part into one program. Rather than separate setups for face 1, face 2, face 3, you machine them in one continuous job.
Machine up‑time: Ensure the machine is cutting, not waiting for operator intervention. Load/unload must overlap with machine running.
CAM strategy: Use toolpaths optimized for 5‑axis — shorter tools, better clearance, fewer air moves.
Fixturing design: Minimize non‑cut time via quick clamping and maximize part count per fixture.
Automation / Palletization: If possible, use pallet‑pool systems to further reduce downtime between fixtures.
In the real case, the machine kept running for 95 minutes continuously with all 28 parts in one fixture, freeing the operator to perform other work instead of constantly loading/unloading. That’s real productivity gain.
If you want to replicate this success in your job shop with five axis cnc machining, here’s a checklist and guideline:
Evaluate part families: Identify parts with multiple faces or requiring complex orientation; these benefit most from 5‑axis setups.
Select machine capability: Choose a machine capable of simultaneous movement and large table/trunnion (e.g., UMC‑750 or similar).
Design fixture for multiple parts: Aim to load as many parts as fit safely into one setup while maintaining rigidity and accuracy.
CAM programming: Use simultaneous five axis toolpaths; leverage DWO/TCPC (Dynamic Work Offset / Tool Centre Point Control) for flexibility.
Process flow: Ensure operator workflow aligns with machine steps—load‑unload should not interrupt machining.
Monitor and iterate: Track cycle time, setup time, tool wear, and part quality; refine fixture layout, tool choice and CAM strategy accordingly.
Quantify improvement: By reducing setups, you can reduce total cycle time, improve throughput, and reduce cost per part.
Q1: What is five axis CNC machining?
A1: It’s a machining method in which the machine moves along three linear axes (X, Y, Z) and two rotating axes simultaneously, allowing the tool to maintain optimal cutting orientation.
Q2: How does machining 28 parts in one setup benefit cycle time?
A2: Loading many parts at once reduces setup change‑over time, lets the machine run uninterrupted, and thus lowers total cycle time per part.
Q3: What role does fixture design play in multi‑part setups?
A3: Fixture design lets you clamp many parts accurately and quickly, minimizing downtime between load/unload events and ensuring consistent positioning.
Q4: Can any job shop apply simultaneous five axis machining?
A4: Yes—but you’ll need appropriate machine capability, CAM programming, and suitable parts (multi‑face or complex geometry) to justify the investment.
Q5: How much can per‑part cost be reduced using this approach?
A5: While results vary, one case reduced per‑part cycle time by ~23.5% when using an optimized fixture and multi‑part setup.
Q6: Is fixture cost justified by throughput gains?
A6: Yes—if you run large batches or repeat parts, the upfront fixture investment is offset by improved productivity and machine utilisation.
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