4-Axis CNC Machined Brass and Aluminum Rotary Parts
These are custom components machined on 4-axis CNC centers, where a rotary axis indexes the part to cut radial holes, slots, flats and wrapped features. Brass, aluminum and stainless steel are the common materials, with sandblast or anodize finishes and tolerances around ±0.05 mm. They suit buyers of cam rings, indexing hubs, cylindrical housings and multi-sided blocks.
- Material
- Brass
- Tolerance
- to ±0.005 mm
- MOQ
- 1 piece
- Prototype lead time
- 3–7 days
- Radial and wrapped features in one clamping
- Tombstone fixtures for multi-face batch work
- Brass, aluminum and stainless steel
- Angular positions verified on CMM
Item ref. 1600918766426 ·
| Process | 4-axis CNC milling |
|---|---|
| Materials | Brass; aluminum 6061; stainless steel 304 |
| Tolerance | ±0.05 mm standard; tighter on critical features |
| Surface Finish | Sandblasting, anodizing, polishing |
| MOQ | 1 piece |
| Drawing Formats | STEP, IGES, X_T, STL, DWG, DXF, PDF |
| Lead Time | Prototypes ~3–7 working days; production typically 10–20 working days |
| Inspection | First-article + 100% critical-dimension inspection; CMM report on request |
| Typical Features | Bolt circles, helical slots, flats, wrapped engraving |
Manufacturing
How we make this part
Process, material options and inspection for 4-axis cnc machined brass and aluminum rotary parts.
The fourth axis holds the workpiece in a rotary chuck or between centers and turns it between operations or during cutting. This lets us machine features around a cylinder, such as bolt circles, helical slots or engraved text, without re-clamping. Multi-sided blocks can also be machined on four faces in one setup using tombstone fixtures, which shortens cycle time on batches.
Brass is a strong fit for 4-axis work because it machines quickly and holds sharp detail, useful for valve rotors and decorative parts. Aluminum is cheaper and lighter, and anodizing in clear or colors protects it. Stainless costs more to cut but is needed for wet or wear-heavy duty. Sandblasting before anodizing evens out the surface and hides machining marks around the circumference.
Angular positions of indexed features are verified on CMM at first article, and radial hole sizes with pin gauges. Production parts have critical dimensions inspected 100% before packing. Typical applications include cam and indexing rings for automation, rotary valve components, gearbox shift parts, cylindrical sensor housings, knurled adjusters and engraved rollers.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 4-axis and 5-axis machining?
A 4-axis machine adds one rotary axis to X, Y and Z, which is ideal for features around a cylinder or on four sides of a block. A 5-axis machine adds a second rotary axis, allowing compound angles and five-face access. 4-axis is usually cheaper when it covers the geometry.
Can you engrave text around a cylindrical part?
Yes. On a 4-axis setup we can engrave or mill text, scales and logos wrapped around a cylinder in one operation. For fine marks on anodized parts, laser engraving is another option and is usually faster for production quantities.
How do I get a quote for 4-axis cnc machined brass and aluminum rotary parts?
Send a 3D model (STEP or IGES) and a 2D drawing with tolerances, material, finish and quantity through the quote form or by email. An engineer replies within 24 hours on business days with price, lead time and any DFM suggestions.

Request a quote
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Attach drawings or send several parts at once from the full quote form.
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