ForceBeyond provides custom multi-axis CNC machining services for complex components requiring angled features, multi-sided access, controlled datum relationships, contoured surfaces, deep pockets, off-axis holes, and reduced setup count. Capabilities may include simultaneous 5-axis milling, 3+2 machining, mill-turn, live-tool turning, and Swiss-style turning.
Programs may use billet, bar, plate, investment castings, or forgings depending on material, geometry, production volume, and mechanical requirements. ForceBeyond coordinates machining, secondary operations, inspection, finishing, assembly, and logistics through an integrated manufacturing network.
Multi-axis machining is often selected when one setup can replace several fixtures, operations, or machine transfers.
| Machining Technology | How It Works | Best-Fit Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous 5-Axis Milling | Linear and rotary axes move together while cutting. | Impellers, blades, freeform surfaces, undercuts, complex contours, and continuously changing tool orientation. |
| 3+2 Positional Machining | Rotary axes position the workpiece, then cutting proceeds with three linear axes. | Angled holes, deep pockets, multiple faces, prismatic geometry, and improved access with shorter tools. |
| Mill-Turn Machining | Turning and milling operations are combined on one platform using live tooling and controlled spindle positioning. | Shafts, fittings, valve components, couplings, nozzles, sleeves, and complex cylindrical parts. |
| Swiss-Style Turning | Bar stock is supported near the cutting zone by a guide bushing. | Long, slender, small-diameter, and high-volume components such as pins, screws, connectors, and precision shafts. |
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Castings and forgings often contain complex geometry and variable stock that benefit from multi-axis access, probing, and adaptive process planning.
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In 3+2 machining, the rotary axes position the workpiece at a fixed angle before cutting continues with three linear axes. In simultaneous 5-axis machining, the linear and rotary axes move together during cutting. Simultaneous 5-axis is useful for continuous contours, blades, impellers, and complex surface geometry, while 3+2 machining is often efficient for angled holes, deep pockets, and multi-sided prismatic features.
Multi-axis machine rates can be higher than conventional 3-axis rates, but total part cost may be lower when one setup replaces several operations, fixtures, transfers, and inspections. Cost depends on geometry, material, programming, tooling, setup time, production quantity, tolerance, inspection, and the number of operations eliminated.
Yes. Castings and forgings can be machined on 5-axis and mill-turn equipment to establish datums, sealing faces, bores, threads, flange patterns, and other critical features. Near-net variation, machining allowances, fixturing, probing, heat treatment, and inspection should be considered during process planning.
Provide a 2D drawing and, when available, a 3D CAD model, along with material and condition, quantity, critical tolerances, GD&T, surface finish, heat treatment, coating, inspection, deburring, assembly, packaging, and delivery requirements.
Send your drawing, CAD model, material, quantity, critical tolerances, GD&T, surface finish, heat treatment, inspection, deburring, assembly, and delivery requirements for an engineering review.
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