Introduction of 5 Axis CNC Machining

Ward Precision Guaranteeing Ultra Precision with 5 Axis Machines

Ward Precision provides 5 axis CNC machining services that achieve an angular tolerance of two-thousandths of a degree (0.002°). We specialize in true 5 axis contour machining, manufacturing “almost impossible to make” 5 axis components with ease. It takes more than just excellent machining and programming skills to perform true 5 axis work. Our manufacturing engineers are remarkable machinists and have been working in machining industry for 20 – 30+ years. They fix, program, and set up the machines, as well as produce the components themselves, running the job until all the fine-tuning is complete no matter how complex the parts are that an order calls for.

What is 5 Axis CNC Machining

5 axis machining is unique in its ability to effectively process part sizes and shapes with essentially infinite possibilities. Like 3 axis machines, the cutting tool of a 5 axis machining center moves across the X, Y, and Z linear axes, but also rotates on the A and B axes – allowing the cutting tool to approach components from any direction. An experienced machinist can achieve incredibly complicated geometries with high precision when using all 5 axes in conjunction. The skilled and highly experienced CNC machinists and programmers at Owens Industries are capable of machining complex shapes, undercuts, and complicated angles – all in one setup to boot.

Benefits of 5 Axis Machining

  • Workpieces can be completed on the 5 Axis machine alone without moved through several workstations, finishing components with greater accuracy.

  • Less fixture preparation—saving time and money.

  • Single setup required for machining complex shapes—increasing productivity.

  • Can use shorter cutting tools—producing higher cutting speeds and fewer tool vibrations for higher precision.

  • Ability to achieve outstanding surface finishes—improving overall part quality.

Prescription Glasses Moldings

Cases for 5 Axis CNC Machining

Ward Precision has also created inserts that are used for eye glass molding – not the frame but the actual mold for the prescription glasses. Though this may sound simple, it is anything but. Visualize the complex curvatures of a bi-focal lens. Now make it a progressive bi-focal; add astigmatism and off center axes. Many CNC machine shops are not capable of producing the surface tolerance and integrity achieved with the same precision as Ward Precision’s 5 axis machinists. This is just one example of how our team’s mathematical skills benefit customers.

The Production of Collimators

Cases for 5 Axis CNC Machining

Another example showcasing our incredible dedication to precision is the production of collimators. Collimators demand ultra-high precision and accuracy to create a high number of holes (depending on its size, a collimator can have 500-1000 holes), each next hole pointing at a different angle than the proceeding hole, with a positional accuracy to be within 5µ to 10µ and an angular accuracy to be within +/- 0.002°. Ward Precision meets these challenges head on, and successfully achieves the exact specifications these components require—accurately machining each hole so they meet at one focal point.

The Production of Ventricular Assist Devices

Cases for 5 Axis CNC Machining

A third example is the main axial impeller used in the heart pump for VAD—Ventricular Assist Devices. When machining medical devices, precision and accuracy is of the utmost importance – Ward Precision is dedicated to meeting these requirements, delivering precision machined components safe enough to implant within the human body.