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6 Axis CNC Machining Explained: Functions, Costs & What You Must Know Before Investing
Today's rapidly transforming manufacturing landscape has given rise to the growing use of 6 axis CNC machines, which offer flexibility, speed, and the capability of handling complex geometries with ease. Manufacturers who produce precision metal and plastic parts for aerospace, robotics, or medical devices find this approach unparalleled in terms of capabilities.
As an engineering designer, procurement officer or plant manager researching 6 axis CNC machine prices or costs of purchasing one for high precision part production purposes, this article offers a thorough yet accessible breakdown of what these machines do, their benefits and pricing factors as well as how they contribute to high precision part manufacturing.
What Is a 6 Axis CNC Machine?
A 6-axis CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine goes beyond traditional 3- and 5-axis systems by including both linear axes (X, Y and Z) as well as rotational axes (A, B and C), giving the machine six degrees of freedom when moving or rotating tools or parts simultaneously.
This increased motion capability significantly increases a machine's flexibility - especially when working on parts with complex geometries or undercuts that cannot be completed in one setup using standard 3 or 5 axis machines.
Comparison: 6 Axis CNC Vs 5 Axis CNC
Feature |
5 Axis CNC |
6 Axis CNC |
Axes of Movement |
3 linear + 2 rotational |
3 linear + 3 rotational |
Setup Requirements |
1–2 setups for complex parts |
Often just 1 setup |
Machining Complexity |
High |
Very high |
Accuracy |
±0.01 mm |
±0.005 mm (or better) |
Applications |
Aerospace, molds, medical |
Aerospace, robotics, advanced optics |
Advantages of 6 Axis CNC Machining
1. Single-Set Machining
This technique of machining eliminates multiple clamping steps for quicker production cycles and greater precision.
2. Faster Cycle Times
Simultaneous multi-axis movement allows complex shapes to be machined more quickly.
3. Increase Accuracy
Fewer setups result in reduced cumulative errors, leading to improved tolerances and surface quality on final parts.
4. More Design Freedom
Achie more design freedom when dealing with freeform surfaces, internal channels or parts requiring multi-angle machining operations.
5. Cost Efficiency in Complex Parts
Optimize labor, fixture costs and scrap risk when fabricating high-value materials like titanium or PEEK.
Cost of a 6 Axis CNC Machine
What does a 6 Axis CNC Machinie Cost? Pricing depends on factors like machine size, capabilities, brand and automation level - here is an approximate breakdown:
Machine Tier, Price Range (USD), Notes
Machine Tier |
Price Range (USD) |
Notes |
Entry-Level 6 Axis CNC |
$120,000 – $180,000 |
For small-scale complex part production |
Mid-Range Industrial |
$200,000 – $350,000 |
High performance, ideal for 24/7 operations |
Premium/Custom Systems |
$400,000 and up |
Tailored for aerospace/medical grade work |
Additional Costs: Tooling, CAM software, operator training, and maintenance expenses can add between $20k-$50k annually depending on production volume.
Consider creating a pie chart to outline all of the costs associated with owning a 6 Axis CNC Machine, in terms of ownership costs.
- Equipment Purchase: 65-70%
- Maintenance & Upgrades: 15%
- Tooling & Fixtures: 10-11%
- Training & Programming: 10%
Industries Reaping the Benefits of 6 Axis CNC Routers
Aerospace applications: aluminum and titanium turbine blades, impellers and structural brackets Robotics applications: precision joints, custom frames and housing parts (frames), as well as precision joints in robotic arms
Medical: titanium bone plates, surgical guides and orthopedic implants (implants);
Automation Equipment :Brackets, couplings, complex linkages.
Photography & Optics: Camera mounts, lens holders, gimbal components
Does 6 Axis CNC Justify Its Investment Costs?
Businesses dealing with high-mix, low-volume parts or complex geometric components will benefit from using 6 axis CNC machining:
- Longer product lifetime
- Faster time-to-market
- Improved quality consistency
- Lower labor and fixture costs
Although the initial costs associated with 6 axis CNC machines may seem steep, their long-term ROI through process efficiency and quality make them a smart investment decision.
Why choose Yixin Precision for 6-Axis CNC Machining?
Yixin Precision in Shenzhen, China has over two decades of experience providing precision CNC machining of metal and plastic parts for aerospace, medical, robotics and robotics industries. Equipped with cutting edge 6 axis CNC machines capable of producing tight tolerance parts at tight tolerance tolerance levels for production.
- At our facility, our advantages include:
- Precision tolerances up to +-0.005mm
- ISO 13485 certified medical part production
- Experience working with titanium, stainless steel, PEEK and engineering plastics
- Rapid prototyping to mass production
- Multilingual support for global clients
Need an estimate or feasibility review for your complex part? Yixin Precision offers precise yet efficient manufacturing. Contact them now
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