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info@aerospacemetalsllc.com

54 W. Industrial Drive O’Fallon, MO 63366

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our CNC Machining

5-Axis CNC Milling .

Complex geometry machining with simultaneous 5-axis motion for aerospace-grade precision.
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  • Quick Specifications

Lead Time

10-15 business days

Certifications

ISO 9001

Compatible Materials

Aluminum, Titanium, Inconel, Stainless Steel, Tool Steel, Plastics

Industries

Aerospace, Defense, Medical, Energy

About This Service

5-Axis CNC Milling

5-axis CNC milling enables machining of complex geometries in a single setup, reducing handling and improving accuracy. The ability to approach the workpiece from any angle allows production of intricate contours, undercuts, and compound surfaces impossible with 3-axis machines.

Our partner facilities maintain tight tolerances (±0.0005″ typical) on complex aerospace and medical components. 5-axis machining significantly reduces setup time and improves surface finish for demanding applications.

  • Complex geometries
  • Single-setup machining
  • Tight tolerances
  • Superior surface finish
Our Process

How 5-Axis CNC Milling Works.

Our streamlined process ensures quality results and on-time delivery for every project.

Design Review

Our engineers review your CAD files for manufacturability, suggesting optimizations for 5-axis machining.

CAM Programming

Advanced toolpath programming optimizes tool engagement, minimizes setups, and ensures collision-free machining.

5-Axis Machining

Simultaneous 5-axis movement enables complex contours and features to be machined in a single setup.

Inspection & QC

CMM verification confirms dimensional accuracy. First article inspection for production runs.

Finishing & Delivery

Secondary finishing if required, careful packaging, and delivery to your specifications.

Industries Served

5-Axis CNC Milling Solutions Across Industries

Aerospace & Aviation

Defense

Medical Services

Energy

Quality & Certifications

Available Certifications Across Network

Quality isn't just about certifications—it's about consistent results. Every partner facility is personally vetted by Paul Fredericks.

ISO 9001:2015

Quality Management (All Partners)

AS9100 Rev D

Aerospace Quality Management

Nadcap

Aerospace/Defense Accreditation

ISO 13485

Medical

ITAR Registered

Defense Projects

Technical Specifications

Industry standards and material compatibility for zinc-nickel plating

Compatible Materials

Aluminum

Titanium

Inconel

Stainless Steel

Tool Steel

Plastics

Available Processes

Simultaneous 5-Axis

3+2 Positioning

High-Speed Milling

Hard Milling

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about hardcoat anodizing services.

How long does hardcoat anodizing take?

Typical lead time is 10-14 business days from when parts arrive at the facility. The actual anodizing process takes 6-8 hours including pre-treatment, anodizing (45-90 minutes), sealing, and inspection. Expedited service available for critical aerospace/defense projects.

What aluminum alloys work best with hardcoat anodizing?

6061, 7075, 2024, and 5052 produce excellent results. 6061 is most common for general applications. 7075 achieves highest hardness. 2024 is standard for aerospace. Casting alloys (356, 380) produce softer, less uniform coatings due to silicon content.

How thick should the hardcoat be?

Depends on application. Light wear: 0.0008"-0.0015". Standard applications: 0.0015"-0.0025". Heavy wear: 0.0025"-0.004". Thicker isn't always better—excessive thickness increases brittleness and cracking risk, especially on edges and corners.

Will hardcoat anodizing change my part dimensions?

Yes. Coating grows approximately 50% inward and 50% outward. For 0.002" coating, expect +0.001" dimensional change per surface (+0.002" on diameter). Critical dimensions should be masked or designed with coating growth in mind. Threads typically masked or chased after anodizing.

Can hardcoat be applied to welded aluminum?

Yes, but with considerations. Weld areas may anodize differently (lighter color) than base material due to different alloy chemistry. Appearance will be non-uniform but functionality (wear, corrosion resistance) is maintained.

Does hardcoat anodizing meet aerospace specifications?

Yes. When performed to MIL-A-8625 Type III or AMS 2469, hardcoat anodizing meets aerospace requirements. Our Nadcap-accredited partners are qualified for aerospace critical applications and provide complete documentation including FAI when required.

Can I get colored hardcoat?

Yes. Black is most common for functional applications. Gray, gold, olive drab, and other colors available. Note: colors are darker/muted compared to Type II anodizing due to coating density and thickness. Natural (undyed) hardcoat is gray.

What is the wear resistance compared to hard chrome?

Hardcoat anodizing (60-70 HRC) is comparable to hard chrome plating (65-70 HRC) in terms of hardness. However, wear performance depends on specific application. Hardcoat excels for abrasion resistance; hard chrome excels for sliding wear.
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