Aerospace

Aerospace Machining: Angle Heads & Traceable Workholding

Aerospace structural parts are low-volume, high-mix and safety-critical: titanium and composites, tight tolerances and full traceability. The priorities are rigid low-runout machining of hard-to-reach features and fixturing that returns to the same datum, every time, on the record.

Machining challenges in aerospace

Titanium and composites demand rigid, low-runout cutting
Cross holes and side pockets would otherwise need a second setup or a 5-axis machine
Safety-critical tolerances require traceable, repeatable fixturing
High-mix, low-volume work makes setup time a large share of cost

How our workholding & tooling helps

Angle head milling cutters

Fixed 90° heads redirect the spindle to the side for cross-drilling and side-milling in one setup, with low runout on safety-critical features.

Angle Head Milling Cutters

Zero-point positioning

A shared, hardened datum keeps location consistent between operations and gives you repeatable, traceable fixturing across a high-mix schedule.

Zero-Point Positioning Systems

Typical parts

Structural fittings
Ribs and spars
Brackets
Actuator housings

Representative scenario

Challenge — Cross holes and side pockets on titanium and composite parts would otherwise need a second setup or a 5-axis machine.

Solution — Fixed 90° angle heads redirect the spindle to the side, while a zero-point interface keeps the datum consistent between operations.

Result

Side milling & drilling in one setup
Low runout on safety-critical features
Traceable, repeatable fixturing

Illustrative scenario based on typical results, not a specific client engagement.

Frequently asked questions

Why use an angle head instead of a 5-axis machine for aerospace side features?+

For fixed-angle cross-holes and side pockets, a slim angle head reaches the feature in one setup for a fraction of the cost of a 5-axis machine — and often reaches into narrow spaces a bulky 5-axis head cannot clear.

Which shank interfaces are available?+

BT30/BT40/BT50, plus HSK and CAT on request, with ER8–ER32 collets or side-lock holders. Specify your spindle taper and the head is matched to it.

Is the fixturing traceable?+

Zero-point interfaces return the part to the same origin within microns each cycle, so location is repeatable and documented — supporting the traceability aerospace inspection requires.

Angle Head Milling Cutters Zero-Point Positioning Systems Request a Quote