Proto Labs expands European CNC 5-axis milling capability

This enhancement reflects Proto Labs’ continued growth and investment in its European business and facilities.

With the expansion of 5-axis CNC milling (also known as 3+2 machining), Proto Labs offers customers the option of producing even more complex designs with a higher level of finish. 5 axis milling applies a technique which approaches the construction of a part from multiple directions.

This allows the milling process to create parts with intricate geometries and non-orthogonal features (i.e. those that aren’t limited to 3-axis), such as off-axis holes. The multi-angled 5-axis approach also ensures a superior finish, as the part can be milled from an angle that it optimal to produce a quality finish.

John Tumelty, vice president and managing director at Proto Labs EMEA, said: “We are continually investing in our technical capabilities and technologies, across all sites in Europe. Advancements such as CNC 5-axis milling enables us to manufacture the increasingly complex designs of our customers.”

Proto Labs CNC Machining is part of Proto Labs suite of services which also includes 3D printing and Injection Moulding.

www.protolabs.co.uk