Some parts require specific capabilities due to their geometries or material properties. But there are many scenarios when precision machine shops have the opportunity to choose the perfect capability for a part. 

Multi-axis machining is one such capability that we often turn to here at Arbiser Machine to provide an efficient manufacturing solution for certain parts.

What Is Multi-Axis Machining? 

Multi-axis machining describes the process of one machine combining the work of multiple machines with only one setup. There are different types of multi-axis machines, but at Arbiser Machine, we use a turning center with Y-axis capabilities. 

This machine is perfectly suited for turned parts with milled features because it’s capable of milling back and forth along the Y-axis while the part turns. 

There are alternatives to multi-axis machining for turned parts with milled features, such as a lathe with live tooling, but they aren’t as comprehensive as a multi-axis machine with Y-axis capability. 

Why Use Multi-Axis Machining? 

With so many precision machining services available to us, you may wonder how we decide what approach to take with your parts. We like to leverage multi-axis machining for two main reasons: 

1. Exceptional accuracy

When using 2-axis machines, each new side of the part requires a new setup. That means if three sides of the part need to be milled, we’re potentially looking at a lathe operation and three separate milling operations. 

The more setups there are, the higher the chances of error during machining. Therefore, minimizing setups results in better consistency and accuracy.

It’s important to note that no matter which precision machining method we use here at Arbiser Machine, your parts will always meet our high quality standards. However, multi-axis machining can decrease variations from one part to the next that are otherwise nearly impossible to control. 

2. Shorter setup and lead times

Multi-axis machining is highly efficient. It allows us to reduce setups across different machines, consolidating multiple operations into one and saving valuable time during pre-production. Setups for multi-axis machining are more intensive, but in the end, one setup is almost always faster than several. 

With no need to coordinate schedules across multiple machines, we can save additional time and complete your part faster.

Multi-Axis Machining at Arbiser Machine

We recently leveraged our multi-axis machining capabilities for a customer who needed a flange with a circular pattern of bolt holes. Typically, the holes would have to be cut on a separate machine, but multi-axis machining allowed us to complete the project with just one setup. 

The customer got their part faster, and it was exceptionally accurate. We did use wire EDM to make a keyway, so technically, this part did require a separate capability. However, since we offer wire EDM services in house at our precision machine shop, we got the customer their parts ASAP.

At Arbiser Machine, we always work with you to identify the optimal capability for your parts. If you need a turned part with milled features, we can machine it in one setup. Request a quote today!