
The mold manufacturing industry today faces increasing challenges, including the growing complexity of parts that require higher precision, as well as continuously shortening production lead times. Adopting advanced manufacturing technologies has therefore become a key factor in maintaining competitiveness. DESIGN ENGINEERING & SERVICE, a long-established mold parts manufacturer in Thailand, is one of the companies that continuously prioritizes the development of manufacturing technologies. The company has adopted CAM-TOOL 5 Axis machining to further enhance its production efficiency.
DESIGN ENGINEERING & SERVICE Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as DES) was established on March 29, 2007. For over 19 years, DES has been engaged in mold design, mold manufacturing, and mold component production for various industries, including electronics, automotive, semiconductor components, and plastic molds. Most of its customers are Japanese companies.
To meet the demand for high-precision work within shorter lead times, DES has continuously strengthened its capabilities in both machinery and human resources. Previously, DES utilized CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, which already provided a high level of precision. However, as mold designs became increasingly complex, multiple setups were required to machine different sides of a workpiece. This led to several challenges, including: 
▲ Mr. Chaovalit from CGS ASIA and Mr. Jirasak from DES
DES’s key strengths in the mold manufacturing industry include:
・High-precision manufacturing capability at a level of 2 microns
・Fast service supported by a two-shift operation system
・Highly skilled workforce, with many employees having over 15 years of experience
In addition, DES places strong emphasis on sustainable business practices, actively working to reduce environmental impact and currently pursuing ISO 14000 certification.
Mr. Jirasak, the company’s executive, places great importance on adopting advanced technologies and modern machinery. He believes that investing in technology enables the company to produce high-quality products and enhance its competitiveness in the market.
From 3-Axis Challenges to 5-Axis Manufacturing
・Accumulated errors from repeated re-positioning
・Increased machining errors
・Longer setup times
These issues prompted DES to seek a solution that could reduce process steps while further improving accuracy. To overcome these limitations, DES implemented CAM-TOOL 5 Axis in combination with a MAKINO 5-axis machining center. This enabled the company to complete high-precision machining in a single setup.
As a result, the following improvements in production efficiency were clearly achieved:
・Improved accuracy by eliminating multiple workpiece setups
・Reduced machining time by using shorter tools
(without lowering cutting conditions, as vibration from long tool setups is minimized)
・Reduced costs for fixtures (jigs and fixtures)
・Reduced tooling costs

▲ 5-axis machining center from MAKINO used with CAM-TOOL 5 Axis by CGS ASIA
One of the key advantages of CAM-TOOL is its operational continuity. Since DES staff were already familiar with CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, transitioning to 5-axis machining was not difficult. By building on their existing knowledge, employees were able to reduce training time, minimize human error, begin operations quickly.
CAM-TOOL is a CAM software developed by CGS to support the machining of high-precision and complex components, such as molds and advanced industrial parts. DES had already been using CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, and with the addition of 5-axis functionality, they were able to smoothly expand to 5-axis operations.
■ 5-Axis Conversion Function
The Conversion Function allows users to directly convert 3-axis toolpaths into 5-axis machining operations. In addition, the Smoothing Control function ensures smooth and continuous movement of rotary and tilt axes, reducing sudden or jerky machine motions.
・No need to relearn an entirely new system
・Reduced software learning time
・Simplified programming process
・Faster adoption of 5-axis machining
■ Machine Simulation Function
The Machine Simulation Function is designed to provide fast and highly accurate machining simulations. It enables collision detection between tools, holders, workpieces, fixtures, and machine components. It also verifies the movement range of each axis based on NC data, ensuring that machine motions stay within operational limits.
Additionally, the simulation uses the same interface as the Simultaneous 5-axis Editor, allowing users to work seamlessly within a single environment. This simplifies operation and enables quick program verification before actual machining.
・Reduced risk of machine collisions
・Fewer operational errors
・Improved safety in the manufacturing process
For DES, adopting 5-axis machining represents a significant step in enhancing production capabilities. Mr. Jirasak believes that 5-axis technology will become essential in the manufacturing industry in the future—especially when combined with high-performance software, enabling smoother and more efficient production processes.
Since DES employees were already familiar with CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, the transition to 5-axis was smooth. By leveraging their existing knowledge, they achieved:
✓ Reduced training time
✓ Fewer human errors
✓ Faster operational readiness
Beyond improvements in workforce efficiency, DES also experienced a significant increase in overall production performance: In addition to the performance of CAM-TOOL, support from the CGS team has been another key factor enabling DES to confidently adopt 5-axis machining technology.
CGS provides continuous technical and operational support—from initial setup and guidance on toolpath creation to troubleshooting during actual operation. This ensures that users can effectively implement the system in real production environments.

▲ CAM-TOOL 5-axis operation with support from CGS
✓ Reduced production time
✓ Increased output volume
✓ Ability to handle more complex projects
Furthermore, 5-axis machining enhances workplace safety by enabling accurate simulation and verification of machining processes through software.
“Although 5-axis technology is not new, many companies have yet to fully adopt it. Starting now presents a valuable opportunity to prepare for the future of manufacturing. Moreover, this technology allows companies to expand into industries that require high precision, such as aerospace, or into complex component manufacturing.” (Mr. Jirasak said)

▲ DES team and representatives from CGS ASIA
For companies interested in CAM-TOOL or seeking more information about its 5-axis capabilities, please feel free to contact CGS ASIA via the inquiry form below.