Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 59 minutes ago
In chapter 2 lesson 3, we compare three axis and five axis setups and how they impact part quality, efficiency, and cost.
We’ll explore how multiple setups on a three axis machine can introduce error through repositioning, while five axis machining allows you to complete more features in a single setup. From there, we’ll walk through how part orientation and work coordinate systems change between setups, and why maintaining consistent references is critical for accuracy. You’ll also see how these differences show up in CAM and how they affect programming and real world results.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
• The difference between three axis and five axis setups
• How multiple setups introduce error and tolerance stack up
• Why fewer setups improve accuracy and consistency
• How to manage part orientation and coordinate systems
• How machine choice impacts cost, speed, and quality
By the end of this lesson, you’ll understand how setup strategy affects your final part, helping you design parts that minimize error, reduce setups, and improve overall machining efficiency.
⏰ Timestamps ⏰
00:00: Intro
00:11: Understanding Three vs. Five Axis Machining
02:33: Programming Considerations for Machining
05:51: CAD Setup for Three and Five Axis Machines
08:30: Benefits of Five Axis Machining
10:03: What you'll learn next lesson
Stay tuned for more SendCutSend Education.
Want to rock the same gear as Jake? Grab your SendCutSend merch here: store.sendcutsend.com
Custom sheet metal manufacturing and processing. From prototype to large production runs, get sale and assembly ready custom parts shipped in as little as 2 days; No minimum quantities; free US shipping on orders over $39; made In the USA: bit.ly/4dwW6rU
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/sendcutsend
SendCutSend Education was filmed by Keaton Bowlby.
In chapter 2 lesson 3, we compare three axis and five axis setups and how they impact part quality, efficiency, and cost.
We’ll explore how multiple setups on a three axis machine can introduce error through repositioning, while five axis machining allows you to complete more features in a single setup. From there, we’ll walk through how part orientation and work coordinate systems change between setups, and why maintaining consistent references is critical for accuracy. You’ll also see how these differences show up in CAM and how they affect programming and real world results.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
• The difference between three axis and five axis setups
• How multiple setups introduce error and tolerance stack up
• Why fewer setups improve accuracy and consistency
• How to manage part orientation and coordinate systems
• How machine choice impacts cost, speed, and quality
By the end of this lesson, you’ll understand how setup strategy affects your final part, helping you design parts that minimize error, reduce setups, and improve overall machining efficiency.
⏰ Timestamps ⏰
00:00: Intro
00:11: Understanding Three vs. Five Axis Machining
02:33: Programming Considerations for Machining
05:51: CAD Setup for Three and Five Axis Machines
08:30: Benefits of Five Axis Machining
10:03: What you'll learn next lesson
Stay tuned for more SendCutSend Education.
Want to rock the same gear as Jake? Grab your SendCutSend merch here: store.sendcutsend.com
Custom sheet metal manufacturing and processing. From prototype to large production runs, get sale and assembly ready custom parts shipped in as little as 2 days; No minimum quantities; free US shipping on orders over $39; made In the USA: bit.ly/4dwW6rU
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/sendcutsend
SendCutSend Education was filmed by Keaton Bowlby.
