CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten is a core capability at VT machining. We combine controlled machining with material-aware setup for Tungsten — an alloy that is extreme hardness, density and heat resistance — to produce parts that meet your specification first time.
Starting Parameters for CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten
| Cutting speed (carbide) | 20-35 m/min |
|---|---|
| Feed per tooth | 0.014-0.053 mm |
| Spindle speed, Ø8 mm end mill | 800-1390 rpm |
| Insert / tool class | ISO S — sharp PVD-coated carbide |
| Coolant | Flood emulsion |
| Thermal growth, 300 mm part, +3 °C | 4.1 µm (CTE 4.5 µm/m·K) |
Shown for Tungsten, the most common Tungsten grade we see for CNC 5-Axis Machining. Starting values for Tungsten, Stress-relieved; optimised on the first article.
CNC 5-Axis Machining Capability for Tungsten
- Simultaneous 5-axis
- Single-setup complex geometry
- True-position to ±0.01 mm
- Impellers, manifolds, blades
Tungsten material properties, finishing options and grade notes are on our CNC Milling Tungsten page.
How CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten Works
Rotating multi-flute cutters remove material as the Tungsten 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.
Programming is driven directly by your 3D model or print. Work-holding, tool selection and the cutting strategy are planned around the critical features and the material before the first chip is cut. First-off inspection confirms the process is centred before production continues.
Achievable Tolerances for CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten
| 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.
Exact achievable figures depend on the alloy, the feature size and the part geometry. Tell us which dimensions are critical and we will advise feasibility up front.
Design Tips for CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten
We are happy to suggest design tweaks that improve manufacturability. Generous internal radii, sensible pocket depth-to-width ratios and avoiding very thin unsupported walls all reduce cost and improve accuracy in Tungsten. If you send your model early, we will return practical DFM feedback before you commit to production.
Applications of CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten
Customers order CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten components for everything from instrumentation to structural and functional assemblies. Whether you need a single prototype or recurring production volume, the same process discipline applies.
Typical Tungsten Parts for CNC 5-Axis Machining
Illustrative examples of CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten 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.
Heat sink base
- Material
- Tungsten
- Size
- 200 × 100 × 8 mm
- Key callouts
- Fin thickness 1.2 ±0.05 mm, base flatness 0.03 mm
- Batch
- 500 pcs
Fins cut with a slotting cutter in one pass to avoid the deflection a step-over leaves.
Manifold block
- Material
- Tungsten
- Size
- 120 × 60 × 45 mm
- Key callouts
- Cross-bore intersection ±0.05 mm, ports G1/8", leak-tested to 10 bar
- Batch
- 80 pcs
Deburred internally with a brush tool; a burr at a cross-bore is what fails the leak test.
Robot end-effector bracket
- Material
- Tungsten
- 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.
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 Tungsten
- 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 Tungsten 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 Tungsten
Send the drawing, the Tungsten grade and the quantity. You get pricing, lead time and any DFM notes back — usually within one business day.
Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
How clean are the edges produced by CNC 5-Axis Machining on Tungsten?
Machined Tungsten edges are clean and to specification; edge-break or deburring is added when your drawing calls for it.
Why is Tungsten a good choice for CNC 5-Axis Machining?
Tungsten is extreme hardness, density and heat resistance, which makes it well suited to CNC 5-Axis Machining. We tune the process to the alloy so the finished Tungsten machining part meets your dimensional and functional requirements.
Can VT machining make custom Tungsten parts to my drawing?
Yes. Tungsten 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.
What surface finish is achievable on Tungsten with CNC 5-Axis Machining?
Surface finish on Tungsten is controlled to your specification; we confirm the achievable Ra against your callout.
Does CNC 5-Axis Machining Tungsten require dedicated tooling?
Most Tungsten machining work uses standard cutting tools and CNC programs; dedicated fixtures are made only when geometry or volume requires them.