With any business, investing in the latest technology is a necessary requirement to compete effectively.

The engineering industry is constantly on the move with the latest developments making life so much easier – both for the manufacturer and of course, the client.

The introduction of 5 Axis machining within the industry has not only worked in terms of cutting down costs, but also producing greater quality in quick-fire time.

Here at PRV Engineering we have invested heavily over the past 18 months.

Part of the overall investment has been the addition to our plant list of a Vertical Travelling Column Machining Centre, with full 5 Axis Synchronous Milling ability and a Large Machining Envelope.

The Mazak VTC800/30SR enables a wide variety of components to be manufactured.

Here are five benefits of using a 5 Axis machining centre

1. Time reductions
5 axis machining technology eliminates multiple set-ups required to re-position the work-piece at complex angles. This not only saves time, but reduces errors and costly tooling and fixture expenses required to hold the work-piece in place.

2. Effective tools
Through the use of shorter tools, five axis milling can complete an entire part without using the long tools required in a similar three axis application. It still delivers the final product in less time and with a better surface finish.

3. Complex machining made easier
The 5 Axis machining centre offers the ability to machine extremely complex parts from solid that would otherwise have to be cast.

4. Better drilling
This type of machining can offer huge time savings in hole drilling. Drilling a series of holes with different compound angles is very time consuming. With a five-axis machine, the head can be oriented along the correct axis for each hole automatically, allowing drilling to be completed much more quickly.

5. Easier programming
Most manufacturers that specialize in making controls for five-axis machines can also provide a feature that makes it possible, even for a manual programmer, to program basic machining operations for angular surfaces.

If you wish to know anything more about 5 Axis machining or need advice about work you’re planning contact us.