Jack Rushlander, Jergens Technical Sales Manager discusses layout and planning techniques for 5-axis machining centers.

Jack talks about how advancements in 5 Axis CNC machining technology has changed dramatically in the past 20 years. Dynamic Work Offsets and other capabilities have made workholding easier but also given shops even more opportunities to to improve process and reduce cycle time.

Check out the video below and see how Galactic Widget Company tackles the workholding of a Thingamajig.

• 00:00 - 01:35 Introduction
• 01:35 - 03:50 The Pros of 5-Axis
• 03:50 - 06:20 The Cons of 5-Axis
• 06:30 - 09:36 Process Essentials
• 09:39 - 11:53 The Machine
• 11:55 - 15:40 Part Drawing & Raw Material
• 15:50 - 19:45 When to Use a Dovetail
• 19:46 - 21:35 Start to Finish Operation in Drawings
• 21:36 - 30:38 Work Envelope in Solidworks
• 31:24 - 33:58 Analyze With Your Machinists
• 35:30 - 37:08 Troubleshooting
• 37:18 - 37:56 Getting Other Eyes on Your Project
• 38:00 - 39:40 The Process of Sending Project to Your Programmer
• 39:45 - 49:36 Questions

Jergens Inc. offers fixture plate machining kits and receiver bushing plugs for its line of Ball Lock quick-change mounting systems.
EDITED BY JEDD COLE  Production Editor, Modern Machine Shop​

The machining kits consist of one fixture plate, four extra-long Ball Lock shanks and four spacers that provide clearance between the fixture plate and subplate below. This open space allows cutting tools to “break through” the fixture plate without damaging the subplate, making it possible to machine fixture plates while mounted to the same subplates they will be used with during production, the company says.

The plugs are designed to prevent chips and coolant from accumulating inside receiver bushings that are not in use during certain operations. This saves time by eliminating the need to clean out the bushings between setups. The receiver plugs are made of blue anodized aluminum, providing durability for better resistance to hot chips when compared to plastic plugs.

The flush mount design means the plugs do not protrude above the subplate surface, making it easier to clean and avoiding interference during machining. These plugs are available in standard sizes to accommodate different hole openings and come with an O ring and tapped hole for easy installation.