End-to-end production

Industrial 3D printing technology specialist EOS is launching a new end-to-end production network to connect companies of all sizes seeking high-quality serial additive manufacturing (AM) support with selected, certified EOS partners. Prototal Industries, Scandinavia’s largest and most specialised additive manufacturing company, is the first contract manufacturer to join the network. To become a network partner, companies run through a certification process where the end-to-end capabilities are the key criteria. Initially, the network will take shape in the EMEA region, with plans to expand.

For further information
www.eos.info

Autonomous and multifunctional bar turning

Now available in the UK from the Engineering Technology Group (ETG), the new 715 series turn-mill centre from the Chiron Group demonstrates its autonomous capabilities by machining components on all six sides.

Developed upon the Chiron FZ08 S turn-mill precision+ and Stama MT 733 bar machining centres (also available from ETG), the new arrival fits perfectly into the Chiron Group portfolio. With its combination of speed and precision, the 715 series is suitable for demanding machining tasks in the medical technology, aerospace, energy and automotive industries.

Two versions of the machine are available, which ETG can tailor and configure in a variety of ways. The two types of machine, the Chiron MT715 (Mill Turn) and Chiron MP715 (Multi Profile), encompass four expansion levels for turning and milling operations in any order. Notably, the swivel head, rotary spindle and opposing spindle enable continuous multifunctional machining on all six sides. Both ensure high reliability and quality, especially for components such as hip stems, turbine blades or extrusions for chassis or battery storage.

Both machines have space for 128 tools and boast integrated component handling with workpiece storage. As a result, the machines fulfil all the demands for the automated manufacturing of workpieces in small and medium batch sizes with unmanned processing. The new machine platform is also set up to integrate digital systems from the Chiron SmartLine portfolio.

For further information
www.engtechgroup.com

Record year for Mills CNC

Despite numerous external challenges, including the continuing impact of the pandemic, the end of the Brexit transition period and significant supply chain issues, Mills CNC has reported strong machine tool and automation sales results for 2021. When the order books closed just before the Christmas break, the company had taken orders for well over 400 new Doosan machines and experienced a 100% increase in sales of its SYNERGi automated manufacturing cells and Doosan cobots.

Says Tony Dale, Mills CNC’s CEO: “Despite the obvious challenges and turbulence experienced throughout the year, 2021 was incredibly positive for Mills CNC. Machine tool sales were up almost 40% on 2020, representing our best year ever for machine tool orders.

“Similarly ground-breaking results were achieved by our Automation Division, with sales of our SYNERGI automated manufacturing cells and Doosan cobots both doubling in the same 12-month period.”

For further information
www.millscnc.co.uk

Dugard adds to its team

As the UK gradually returns to post-pandemic levels, Dugard has appointed Alex Newman to support the unprecedented growth that the company is enjoying across all brands in its portfolio. Joining the company as area sales manager, Newman will support customers and expand sales in the southwest of the UK. With a degree and a Masters degree in mechanical engineering, he spent the past seven years with a leading work-holding and ancillary equipment supplier to the machine tool industry. This experience will be a real asset to Dugard.

For further information
www.dugard.com

Neoprec now supplying CMZ

Neoprec, the new 8000 sq m machining plant of Spain-based lathe-building specialist CMZ, is taking its first steps. After the completion a few months ago of construction works and assembly of the machinery necessary to start running, Neoprec has started to supply the production line for CMZ’s digital-control lathes. The aim now is to reach a cruising speed, so that in five years’ time the company will reach its target of delivering over 800 lathes a year.

The plant has an automated warehouse capable of handling 1752 pallets, while the metrology room has temperature control to within 0.1°C and features a trio of 3D measuring machines. Once the Neoprec plant is fully equipped it will be capable of running for 48 hours without human intervention.

Neoprec starting its operation is one more step in the strategic plan that aims to double CMZ’s current manufacturing capacity in the coming five years. The arrival of new machines is imminent: bit by bit the plant is receiving all of the machinery it needs to carry out its activity at full throttle.

Construction of the Neoprec facility entailed an investment of €17m. CMZ strives for continuous growth aimed at increasing the company’s production capacities. The first estimates already suggest that the target of 800 machines delivered annually will be reached within its desired timeframe.

Word about the new plant is spreading fast. Students taking a higher diploma in industrial mechatronics and mechanical manufacturing production programming visited Neoprec recently and had the opportunity to look around the recently opened facility.

For further information
www.cmz.com