CAPABILITIES · PRECISION MACHINING
5-Axis CNC Machining Services for Complex Parts
Xproto’s 5-axis CNC machining services turn challenging geometry into custom metal and plastic parts. Bring your CAD model to Xproto for a practical manufacturing review and a project-specific quote.
- Multi-face features, angled holes and freeform surfaces
- Prototype and production quantities
- Material and finishing options matched to your drawing
- Critical dimensions and inspection requirements reviewed upfront
Share your model and drawing for a manufacturing review.
MORE ACCESS. FEWER COMPROMISES.
What Is 5-Axis CNC Machining?
Five-axis machining combines movement along X, Y and Z with two rotary axes. This changes the relationship between the tool and the part, helping a cutter reach features from several directions.
It can reduce re-clamping for suitable parts and improve access to contoured surfaces. The result depends on the geometry, machine configuration, tooling and workholding—not the axis count alone.
For Xproto projects, define the important functional surfaces first. We review how to approach those features, where a simpler process may be sufficient, and which requirements belong in the quotation.
Multi-face features
Review holes, pockets and datum relationships across several faces without assuming each face needs a separate setup.
Complex contours
Assess tool orientation and surface strategy for curved profiles, sculpted forms and difficult approach angles.
Project-specific quality
Align critical dimensions, finish allowances and inspection documents with the actual function of your part.
5-Axis vs. 3-Axis CNC Machining
Three-axis machining is often a practical choice for accessible prismatic parts. Five-axis machining becomes useful when rotating the part or tool improves access, reduces setups or enables a required surface.
More axes do not automatically mean a lower price or a tighter tolerance. Compare programming, fixtures, cycle time, finishing and inspection for the complete part.
Simultaneous 5-axis or 3+2?
3+2 machining positions the rotary axes before cutting. Simultaneous five-axis machining changes orientation during the cut. Choose the strategy that fits the feature rather than specifying simultaneous motion for every operation.
Choose the route for the whole part
- 3-axis: accessible flat faces and simple pockets
- 5-axis: multi-face, angled and contoured features
- Compare saved setups with programming and inspection cost
Method selection and achievable tolerances are confirmed after reviewing the drawing.
5-Axis CNC Machining Materials
Explore Xproto’s existing metal and plastic options. Grade, stock form and suitability for the five-axis process are reviewed for your project.
Metals
Al
Aluminium
Lightweight metal for housings, fixtures and complex functional parts.
Grades / options
6061, 2024, 5052, 5083, 6082, 7075
Finishing options
As machined, anodizing, powder coating, plating and polishing
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
Cu
Copper
Conductive material for electrical contacts and thermal components.
Grades / options
C101, C103, C110, beryllium copper
Finishing options
As machined, polishing, tumbling, nickel or chrome plating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
Fe
Steel
Strong, versatile options for tooling and high-load components.
Grades / options
1018, 1020, 1045, 1215, 4130, 4140, 4340
Finishing options
Black oxide, heat treatment, plating and powder coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
Br
Bronze
Wear-resistant material for bearings, bushings and sliding components.
Grades / options
Tin bronze and drawing-specified bronze alloys
Finishing options
As machined, polishing, blasting, plating and brushing
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
SS
Stainless Steel
Corrosion-resistant options for precision assemblies and fluid-control parts.
Grades / options
303, 304, 316, 316L, 420, 440C, 17-4PH
Finishing options
Passivation, electropolishing, plating and polishing
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
Mg
Magnesium
Low-density material for weight-sensitive components.
Grades / options
AZ31B, AZ91D
Finishing options
Polishing, blasting, anodizing, painting and powder coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
Ti
Titanium
High strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance.
Grades / options
Grade 2, Grade 5 / Ti-6Al-4V
Finishing options
Polishing, blasting, electropolishing and anodizing
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
Engineering Plastics
ABS
ABS
Tough, economical plastic for functional prototypes and covers.
Grades / options
ABS natural, ABS black, antistatic ABS, ABS+PC
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, painting and coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PC
PC
Impact-resistant plastic for guards and protective housings.
Grades / options
PC clear, PC black, PC white, PC+GF30
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling, painting and brushing
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PMMA
PMMA (Acrylic)
Clear plastic for displays, windows and appearance models.
Grades / options
PMMA clear, PMMA black, PMMA white
Finishing options
As machined, polishing, blasting and painting
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
POM
POM
Dimensionally stable, low-friction plastic for moving components.
Grades / options
POM-C, POM-H, POM 100AF
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling and painting
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PA
PA (Nylon)
Tough, wear-resistant plastic for gears, rollers and guides.
Grades / options
PA6, PA66, PA6+GF15, PA6+GF30
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling and coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PE
PE
Tough polyethylene options for wear pads and chemical-service parts.
Grades / options
HDPE, UHMW-PE, LDPE
Finishing options
As machined; other finishes subject to compatibility review
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PEEK
PEEK
High-performance polymer for demanding thermal and chemical environments.
Grades / options
PEEK natural, PEEK black, reinforced PEEK
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling and coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PP
PP
Lightweight, chemical-resistant plastic for fluid-handling parts.
Grades / options
PP black, PP white, PP+GF30
Finishing options
As machined; other finishes subject to compatibility review
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
HDPE
HDPE
Impact-resistant polyethylene for wear and fluid applications.
Grades / options
HDPE black, HDPE white
Finishing options
As machined; other finishes subject to compatibility review
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
HIPS
HIPS
Easy-to-machine plastic for models and low-load fixtures.
Grades / options
HIPS sheet and board
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, painting and brushing
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
LDPE
LDPE
Flexible polyethylene for protective and low-load components.
Grades / options
LDPE white
Finishing options
As machined; other finishes subject to compatibility review
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PBT
PBT
Rigid plastic for connectors and precision housings.
Grades / options
PBT black, PBT natural, reinforced PBT
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling and painting
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PPA
PPA
Stiff, heat-resistant polymer for electrical and automotive details.
Grades / options
PPA natural and reinforced grades
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling and coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PAI
PAI
High-performance polymer for bearings and elevated-temperature components.
Grades / options
PAI 4203, 4301, 4501, 4503
Finishing options
As machined; heat treatment and coating by grade
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PET
PET
Strong, dimensionally stable plastic for mechanical and electrical parts.
Grades / options
PET black, PET white, PET+GF30
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling and coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PPS
PPS
Heat- and chemical-resistant polymer for industrial components.
Grades / options
PPS black, PPS natural, PPS+GF30
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, tumbling and coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PS
PS
Lightweight plastic for visual models and low-load prototypes.
Grades / options
PS transparent
Finishing options
As machined, blasting and painting
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PVC
PVC
Chemical-resistant plastic for fluid and electrical components.
Grades / options
PVC grey and drawing-specified grades
Finishing options
As machined, blasting, painting and coating
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
PTFE
PTFE (Teflon)
Low-friction polymer for seals, insulators and bushes.
Grades / options
Virgin PTFE, filled PTFE
Finishing options
As machined; other finishes subject to compatibility review
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
UPE
UPE
Abrasion-resistant polyethylene for liners and guides.
Grades / options
UPE / UHMW-PE black and white
Finishing options
As machined; other finishes subject to compatibility review
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
BK
Bakelite
Insulating thermoset for fixtures and electrical parts.
Grades / options
Bakelite black, Bakelite orange
Finishing options
As machined; coatings reviewed for the selected grade
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
FR4
FR-4
Fiberglass laminate for insulating and structural components.
Grades / options
FR-4 green, FR-4 yellow
Finishing options
As machined, deburred and cleaned
Lead time
Confirmed in your project-specific quote.
Material illustrations are not examples of completed five-axis projects. Finish compatibility and stock availability vary by grade.
Surface Finishes for 5-Axis CNC Machined Parts
Choose finishing for the part’s environment, function and appearance. Include coating specifications, cosmetic faces and masking requirements with your RFQ.
Original X-shaped illustrative renders. Appearance is representative only; not all finishes apply to every material. Heat treatment has no universal surface color.
As Machined
An economical starting surface with visible machining marks. Specify edge breaks and any functional roughness requirements.
Anodizing
A controlled oxide layer for suitable aluminum alloys. Define color, coating type and surfaces that must remain uncoated.
Polishing
Mechanical finishing for a smoother or brighter appearance. Agree cosmetic acceptance and dimensional allowances first.
Bead Blasting
A matte, textured appearance produced with suitable blasting media. Mask critical fits and sealing surfaces when needed.
Tumbling
Batch deburring and edge smoothing. Part size, delicate features and media access determine suitability.
Electropolishing
Electrochemical finishing for compatible metals, commonly stainless steel. Specify the required finish and material allowance.
Conversion Coating
A thin chemical conversion layer for aluminum. Specify the applicable coating standard and conductivity requirements.
Heat Treatment
A grade-specific process for mechanical properties. Plan hardness, distortion control and any subsequent finish machining.
DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURE
5-Axis Machining Design Guidelines
Build tool access, stable workholding and measurable requirements into the design. These guidelines support a practical review; they are not universal minimum dimensions.
Feature
Recommended dimensions / requirements
Minimum feature size
≥ 0.5 mm feature width or depth is a starting point for design review. Confirm cutter access, feature length and material suitability.
Linear dimensions and tolerance
± 0.005 mm (± 0.0002 in) may be specified as a target for selected critical dimensions. Achievability must be confirmed after reviewing the material, geometry, datums and inspection method; this is not a blanket general tolerance.
Hole diameter (without reaming)
1–40 mm is a reference range for hole design. Hole depth, positional tolerance and fit may require boring or reaming; confirm the process in the drawing review.
Shaft diameter
2–300 mm is a reference design range. Review overall length, rigidity, workholding and tool access; some shafts are better suited to turning or a combined process.
Threads and tapped holes
M2–M24 is a reference range for metric threads. Specify pitch, thread class and full thread depth, and leave suitable bottom clearance in blind tapped holes.
Engraved text
Use a reference minimum text height of 1.5 mm and engraving depth of 0.5 mm. Confirm font, stroke width, contrast and available wall thickness before release.
Surface requirements
Mark cosmetic faces, sealing faces, roughness and coating masks. State whether dimensions apply before or after finishing.
Material and stock
Specify grade and condition. Review stock availability, workholding allowance and heat-treatment sequence before release.
Send unusually small, thin, deep or tightly toleranced features for review before committing the drawing.
BEFORE YOU ORDER
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear requirements make a five-axis machining quotation more useful.
Consider it for angled holes, features on several faces or freeform surfaces that are awkward to access with three axes. A drawing review should compare the complete manufacturing cost, not just machine hourly rates.
No. In 3+2 machining, rotary axes orient the part before a three-axis cut. Simultaneous machining coordinates linear and rotary motion during cutting. The suitable strategy depends on geometry, access and surface requirements.
Send the critical dimensions, datums, material and finish requirements. Achievable tolerances depend on part size, stiffness, geometry, workholding and inspection method; they are confirmed for the specific project.
Include prototype quantity, repeat-order quantity and expected demand in the RFQ. This lets the review address setup costs, material purchasing and inspection requirements for each stage.
Stock availability, programming, machining, finishing, inspection and approval steps affect the schedule. The quote should confirm the order-specific shipment date.
Send a 3D CAD model and a dimensioned PDF drawing. Include units, revision, material, quantity, critical tolerances, finish, required documents and delivery destination.
START WITH YOUR DRAWING
Request a 5-Axis CNC Machining Quote
Send your design and purchasing requirements. Xproto can review the manufacturing scope and provide a quote matched to the part.
Opens Xproto’s existing quotation form. Shipment dates and manufacturing requirements are confirmed in the quote.
Your RFQ checklist
- 3D CAD model and dimensioned PDF drawing
- Drawing revision, units and material grade
- Prototype and production quantities
- Critical dimensions, datums and surface finish
- Coating, masking and inspection documents
- Delivery destination and requested shipment date
Related Manufacturing Resources
Read more about materials and process selection for your next custom part.
MATERIAL SELECTION · ALUMINUM
Aluminum Bar Stock: Grades, Shapes, Sizes and CNC Machining
Compare stock choices and the information needed for a machining RFQ.
MATERIAL SELECTION · STAINLESS
Stainless Steel Bars: Grades, Shapes and Buying Guide for CNC Parts
Review stainless grades and purchasing considerations for machined parts.
PROCESS SELECTION · PRECISION
Swiss-Type Precision Machining Guide
Explore an alternative process for suitable precision turned components.
PROTOTYPING, ACCELERATED.
Start Your 5-Axis CNC Project
Let Xproto review the route from your design to a manufactured part.
Drawing Review · Material Options · Custom Finishing · Project-Specific Quote