The use of a Starrag twin-pallet, five-axis STC machining centre is not only enabling Switzerland-based punching technology specialist Berhalter AG to “significantly reduce” machining costs by enabling the machine to be fed with long-running five-axis parts or multiple-loaded work, but the machine’s extensive axes travels and capabilities are also allowing the company to out-compete local competitors by processing extra-large components for its aerospace customers.

It was, in fact, the machining of aerospace parts that initially led the company to the re-engineered Starrag STC 1250, which with X, Y and Z-axis travels of 2200 x 1600 x 2100 mm and a 240-tool tower magazine, arrived in 2020 for processing larger parts.

Starrag developed its STC machines for the economical processing of demanding aerospace structural components, multi-blades and casings with long cycle times. The machines’ static and dynamic properties, as well as their tried-and-tested swivel head, are said to set the benchmark for simultaneous five-axis, heavy-duty cutting. However, such demands are not just a necessity for the aviation and energy production industries, as Berhalter also uses its STC 1250 for challenging machine and pump parts made from stainless steel, for example, which require high stability for the accurate production of large holes. Indeed, a positioning accuracy to 0.01 mm is consistently achieved along the STC’s full travel range. In addition, the option of multiple clamping for small parts adds another level of flexibility.

The five-axis capability of the Starrag machine also put it ahead of the large machining centre previously used by Berhalter. In addition to its three dynamic linear axes, the CNC rotary table acts as the fourth simultaneous axis; it has a high-torque, a high-damping drive and can be clamped hydraulically.

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