5 Axis Standard CNC Software

5 Axis Indexing

Position your machine at defined rotary angles and machine each face with standard 3-axis toolpaths. BobCAD-CAM’s 5 Axis Index Systems use machine kinematics and post processor output to calculate positions automatically — so you spend less time on setup math and more time cutting.

3+2 Machining

Lock the rotary axes at a specific orientation and run full 3-axis milling from that position. 3+2 machining is easier to learn and program than full simultaneous 5-axis — making it an ideal workflow for shops adding 5-axis capability for the first time.

Multi-Sided Part Programming

Machine features on multiple faces of a part in a single setup by indexing to each face in sequence. BobCAD-CAM lets you program all faces from the same CAD model — eliminating the need to reconfigure the job for each new face orientation.

5 Axis Hole Recognition

BobCAD-CAM automatically recognizes hole features on your CAD model and generates toolpaths for drilling. This eliminates the need for manual measurement and input of hole coordinates, reducing the likelihood of errors and streamlining the programming process on multi-axis parts.

Angled Hole Drilling

Program drilling operations on angled faces and surfaces without manually calculating the approach vector. 5 Axis Standard supports hole cycles for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis configurations — including posting options and output formats suited for 3+2 drilling operations.

Reduced Manual Repositioning

Instead of removing and re-fixturing a part to machine each face, use 5 Axis Standard to index the rotary axes and machine from the new position. Fewer manual repositions means better part accuracy, lower risk of fixturing errors, and shorter overall cycle time.

Post Processor Driven Output

BobCAD-CAM generates G-code through a post processor calibrated for your specific machine and controller. Indexing positions are calculated and output correctly for your machine configuration — so the code you post runs right on the first attempt.

Setup Time Reduction

Combine indexing, hole recognition, and multi-sided programming to cut total job setup time significantly. BobCAD-CAM 5 Axis Standard helps shops get more done per fixture load — improving throughput without adding machines or operators.

Manual Repositioning

Without a 5-axis module, machinists remove the part from the machine, re-fixture it in a new orientation, re-indicate datums, and run a new program. Each reposition introduces opportunities for error, adds time, and reduces consistency from part to part.

• High risk of re-fixturing error
• Slower cycle time per part
• Multiple separate programs required

5 Axis Indexing (Standard)

With BobCAD-CAM 5 Axis Standard, the machine rotates to the correct angle under program control. The part stays fixtured and the rotary axes lock at the new position. Standard 3-axis toolpaths run from that orientation — then the machine indexes to the next face. Fast, repeatable, and easy to program.

• Part stays in the fixture throughout
• Machine kinematics calculate each position
• One setup — multiple faces machined

Full Simultaneous 5-Axis (Premium)

Simultaneous 5-axis machining moves all five axes at the same time during cutting — enabling complex surface following, tool tilting, swarf cutting, and continuous multi-axis motion. This is the domain of BobCAD-CAM 5 Axis Premium, designed for advanced toolpath strategies on complex geometry.

• Continuous 5-axis tool motion
• Advanced surface finishing strategies
• Holder avoidance and tool tilting

Job Shops

Job shops handling a wide variety of parts need flexible 5-axis capability without deep specialization in complex simultaneous motion. 5 Axis Standard gives job shops the flexibility to tackle multi-sided work across different customer orders with a manageable programming workflow.

Fixture & Bracket Machining

Fixtures and brackets typically require features on multiple faces — slots, holes, pockets, and counterbores on different sides of the same part. 5 Axis Standard lets you index to each face and machine all features in one setup with less risk of repositioning error.

Mold & Pattern Work

Mold components and patterns often require approach angles that standard 3-axis setups cannot reach cleanly. Indexed 5-axis positioning gives the cutter better access to cavity walls, parting surfaces, and angled features — improving surface quality and reducing secondary operations.

Aerospace Brackets & Housings

Aerospace components with multiple faces, bosses, and hole patterns on different orientations are ideal candidates for 3+2 machining. BobCAD-CAM 5 Axis Standard handles the positioning and hole recognition that these parts demand — with clean G-code output for your machine.

Automotive Components

Automotive parts with angled bolt patterns, mounting surfaces, and machined faces benefit directly from 5-axis indexing. Reduce the number of separate setups, improve consistency across a production run, and reduce cycle time on parts that previously required multiple fixturing operations.

CNC Router Applications

5-axis CNC routers used in woodworking, signage, furniture, and composites benefit from hole recognition and indexed positioning for drilling on angled faces. BobCAD-CAM supports router configurations and posts for 5-axis routing applications alongside traditional milling machines.

Multi-Sided Production Parts

Any part that requires machining on three or more faces is a strong candidate for 5 Axis Standard. Reduce the number of separate setups, improve consistency across the production run, and get more out of each fixture load by indexing between faces instead of repositioning manually.

5 Axis Premium

Move up to full simultaneous 5-axis machining with tool tilting, holder avoidance, swarf, morphing, and advanced multi-axis finishing toolpaths for the most complex geometry.

4 Axis CNC Software

Already running a 4th axis rotary table? See how BobCAD-CAM handles indexing and simultaneous 4-axis machining for rotary parts, wrapped features, and continuous rotary motion.

CNC Probing

Combine 5-axis indexing with on-machine probing to validate fixture positions, pick up work offsets automatically, and inspect finished parts before removing them from the fixture.