CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar is a core capability at VT machining. We combine controlled machining with material-aware setup for Kovar — an alloy that is matched thermal expansion for glass/ceramic seals — to produce parts that meet your specification first time.
Starting Parameters for CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar
| Cutting speed (carbide) | 30-70 m/min |
|---|---|
| Feed per tooth | 0.021-0.063 mm |
| Spindle speed, Ø8 mm end mill | 1190-2790 rpm |
| Insert / tool class | ISO S — sharp PVD-coated carbide |
| Coolant | Flood emulsion; sulphurised oil for tapping |
| Thermal growth, 300 mm part, +3 °C | 4.6 µm (CTE 5.1 µm/m·K) |
Shown for Kovar, the most common Kovar grade we see for CNC 5-Axis Machining. Starting values for Kovar, Annealed; optimised on the first article.
CNC 5-Axis Machining Capability for Kovar
- Simultaneous 5-axis
- Single-setup complex geometry
- True-position to ±0.01 mm
- Impellers, manifolds, blades
Kovar material properties, finishing options and grade notes are on our CNC Milling Kovar page.
How CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar Works
Rotating multi-flute cutters remove material as the Kovar workpiece is driven through programmed tool paths on 3-, 4- or 5-axis machining centres. Climb milling, step-over and depth-of-cut are set so chip load stays in the ideal band for the alloy.
Every job begins from your CAD model or 2D drawing. Fixturing and tool paths are planned so the most critical dimensions are produced in the most rigid, repeatable setup. Critical dimensions are checked on the first part and monitored through the run.
Achievable Tolerances for CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar
| Feature | Standard | Precision |
|---|---|---|
| Linear dimension (< 100 mm) | ±0.05 mm | ±0.010 mm |
| Linear dimension (100–300 mm) | ±0.10 mm | ±0.025 mm |
| Hole diameter (reamed) | H9 | H7 |
| True position of hole pattern | ±0.10 mm | ±0.025 mm |
| Flatness over 100 mm | 0.05 mm | 0.015 mm |
| Perpendicularity | 0.10 mm | 0.020 mm |
| Surface finish, as machined | Ra 1.6 µm | Ra 0.4 µm |
Standard is what a normal quotation assumes. Precision is available on nominated features and is priced separately, because it needs extra setups, in-process gauging and CMM verification. Call out only the features that need it — blanket-tightening a drawing is the single most common reason a quote comes back expensive.
CNC 5-Axis Machining Tolerances & Surface Finish
For CNC 5-Axis Machining, dimensional and positional tolerances around ±0.01 mm are routine, tightening toward ±0.005 mm on precision setups. Surface finish on machined faces typically falls in the Ra 0.4–1.6 µm range depending on tooling and pass strategy.
Final tolerances are governed by the material's behaviour, wall thickness and overall stiffness. We give honest DFM feedback if a callout would be costly or better achieved another way.
Design Tips for CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar
A few design choices make a real difference to cost and quality. Generous internal radii, sensible pocket depth-to-width ratios and avoiding very thin unsupported walls all reduce cost and improve accuracy in Kovar. If you send your model early, we will return practical DFM feedback before you commit to production.
Applications of CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar
CNC 5-Axis Machining of Kovar supports parts across aerospace, medical, automotive, electronics, semiconductor, energy and general industrial sectors. We scale from one-off prototypes to ongoing production while holding the same quality.
Typical Kovar Parts for CNC 5-Axis Machining
Illustrative examples of CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar parts and the callouts that usually drive the process plan. They show the kind of work that fits this process; they are not specific customer orders.
Sensor housing
- Material
- Kovar
- Size
- 86 × 54 × 22 mm
- Key callouts
- Pocket depth ±0.02 mm, bore H7, flatness 0.015 mm
- Batch
- 250 pcs / quarter
O-ring groove finished in the same setup as the sealing face so the two stay parallel.
Robot end-effector bracket
- Material
- Kovar
- Size
- 180 × 90 × 30 mm
- Key callouts
- Bore pair concentric within 0.02 mm, weight reduction pockets
- Batch
- 120 pcs
Pockets ganged so wall thickness never drops below 2 mm at the load path.
Vacuum chamber flange
- Material
- Kovar
- Size
- Ø180 × 20 mm
- Key callouts
- Knife-edge seal Ra 0.4 µm, bolt circle ±0.05 mm
- Batch
- 60 pcs
Sealing face finished last, then handled in gloves and bagged straight off the machine.
No drawing yet? Build one in the browser.
Set the metal, dimensions and features, watch the 3D model update as you type, then switch to the 2D sheet to add dimensions and tolerances. Download it or send it straight to us with your RFQ.
What We Need to Quote CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar
- GeometrySTEP or IGES for the 3D model, plus a PDF drawing if you have tolerance callouts. A dimensioned sketch is enough to start.
- MaterialThe exact Kovar grade and condition — temper, heat-treat state or hardness. If you are not sure, tell us the function and we will suggest one.
- QuantityPrototype count and the expected annual volume. Both change how the part is made and therefore what it costs.
- TolerancesWhich features are critical. Everything else runs to our standard tolerance, which is what keeps the price sensible.
- FinishSurface treatment, cosmetic requirements, and any faces that must be masked.
- DocumentsWhether you need a material certificate, dimensional report, FAIR or PPAP with the shipment.
Missing something from the list is not a problem — send what you have. We will come back with the specific questions rather than a generic form.
Other Metals for CNC 5-Axis Machining
Other Processes for Kovar
Send the drawing, the Kovar grade and the quantity. You get pricing, lead time and any DFM notes back — usually within one business day.
Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Does CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar require dedicated tooling?
Most Kovar machining work uses standard cutting tools and CNC programs; dedicated fixtures are made only when geometry or volume requires them.
What is the typical lead time and minimum order for CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar?
CNC 5-Axis Machining prototypes for Kovar can be produced quickly and scaled to series production. Send your drawing and quantity and we will advise lead time and any minimum order.
How clean are the edges produced by CNC 5-Axis Machining on Kovar?
Machined Kovar edges are clean and to specification; edge-break or deburring is added when your drawing calls for it.
Which industries use CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar parts?
CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar parts are used across aerospace, medical, automotive, electronics, semiconductor and general industrial sectors — anywhere precise Kovar components are required.
What tolerances can you hold for CNC 5-Axis Machining Kovar?
Achievable tolerances for Kovar machining depend on the alloy, geometry and feature size. Milling holds positional and dimensional tolerances to around ±0.01 mm, tighter with precision setups. Exact figures are confirmed against your drawing callouts.
Can VT machining make custom Kovar parts to my drawing?
Yes. Kovar machining is made to order from your CAD/2D drawing. Share your geometry, material grade, tolerance and quantity and we will confirm feasibility, lead time and pricing.