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Aerospace & Defense CNC Machining 20 Nov 2025

3-Axis Machining

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How 3-Axis CNC Machining Works

01 Design Preparation

A CAD file containing a 2D or 3D digital model of the part is the starting point for a 3-axis machining project. A design for manufacturability analysis is recommended to ensure that the part design is well-suited to this manufacturing technology. Once the design is finalized, the CAD file is converted to a format called G-code that will control the machine’s movements.

Design Preparation_3Axis
02 Machine Setup

The block of material to be milled must be securely fastened to the machine’s cutting table. Next, the correct size cutting tool is installed in the machine’s spindle. Some 3-axis milling machines include a tool magazine that enables it to automatically change tools during the milling process. The code to control the job is then transferred to the machine’s control system.

Machine Setup_3Axis
03 Machining & Post-Processing

The machine’s spindle moves the rotating cutting tool along the X, Y and Z axes, removing material to shape the part. Coolant may be applied to the cutting area to cool the tool, reduce friction and improve the part’s finish. Because a 3-axis machine can only cut one face of the material at a time, the workpiece may need to be repositioned to machine other sides of it.

Machining & Post-Processing_3Axis

Is 3-Axis Machining Right For Your Project?

Advantages

  • Simple & Low Cost

    Compared to CNC milling machines with more axes, 3-axis machines can produce simple parts at a reasonable cost. This makes them a good choice for budget-conscious projects.

  • Accuracy for Standard Geometries

    3-axis machines can hold tight tolerances and produce excellent surface finishes on features like flat surfaces, perpendicular walls and vertical holes when working in a single setup (without repositioning the part).

  • Quick Set-Up Time

    3-axis machines have fewer moving parts, resulting in a shorter learning curve for operators, simpler programming and easier maintenance and troubleshooting.

  • High Throughout

    For parts that can be accessed from a single direction (e.g., flat plates, simple brackets, panels), 3-axis machining can produce simple parts quickly.

Disadvantages

  • Limited Geometries

    3-axis CNC machines can only move along the X, Y, and Z axes, making it impossible to machine features with complex curves, undercuts or non-perpendicular angles without manually repositioning the workpiece.

  • Multiple Setups May Decrease Accuracy

    Machining multiple sides of a part necessitates frequent manual repositioning, which increases labor costs, the risk of human error in alignment and often contributes to longer production times.

  • Tool Access Limitations

    The fixed orientation of the spindle can make it difficult to reach deep cavities or narrow internal features, sometimes requiring longer tools that may reduce rigidity and cutting performance.

3-Axis Milling Offers Exceptional Versatility

Aerospace Parts

The exceptional accuracy of 3-axis machines makes them a popular choice for tight-tolerance parts used in a variety of aerospace and defense applications, such as turbine parts and airfoils.

Mold & Die Making

3-axis machining is commonly used to cut mold tools used in injection molding because of its accuracy, speed and the complex shapes it can produce.

Medical Applications

3-axis machines are frequently used to produce custom, precise components used in medical equipment and devices. Examples include orthopedic implants and surgical tools.

Case Studies Block

Additional CNC Machining Resources

CNC Machining
CNC Material Datasheet

Why Choose Fathom for 3-Axis Machining?

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