FEATURE ON CNC MILLS & MACHINING CENTRES

Subcontractor invests in first five-axis machining centre

When Andy Battensby and Dale Robson launched North Axis Engineering in Cramlington, Northumberland, their goal was to fill a regional gap for high-precision, quick-turnaround subcontract machining. Targeting the subsea, aerospace and automotive sectors, the company’s rapid growth reflects both ambition and carefully planned investment.

From the outset, the directors prioritised reliable, accurate CNC technology. Drawing on previous experience with Hurco, they equipped the new business in early 2025 with a pre-owned VM10i three-axis machining centre and TM8i CNC lathe. The VM10i delivers high metal removal rates within a compact footprint, while the TM8i provides robust turning capability. Both machines feature Hurco’s Max5 control, enabling fast programming, reduced set-up times and rapid progression to first-off parts.

Rising demand soon prompted expansion. By March 2025, North Axis had added a new VM30i machining centre, complete with an H200 rotary table. Offering larger travels and integrated fourth-axis capability, the machine allows more complex work and efficient second operations. Hurco’s conversational programming ensures this added capability remains easy to use.

Beyond machining, the company offers CADCAM programming, MIG and TIG welding, and fabrication services, all of which strengthen its position as a flexible manufacturing partner.

Its most significant step, however, came with the purchase of a five-axis VM10Ui, confirmed at Hurco’s year-end open house. For a business less than a year old, the move underlines strong confidence and forward planning. As Robson explains: “We already have work requiring simultaneous five-axis machining, and our familiarity with Hurco means we can get up to speed quickly.”

With continued investment and a growing project pipeline, North Axis Engineering is firmly positioned for sustained expansion.

More information www.hurco.co.uk

Travelling column machine handles extra-large components

DMG Mori has expanded its large-part machining portfolio with the introduction of the DMF 600|11, an XXL travelling-column machining centre designed for high-precision, flexible production. The machine features a ±120-degree swivelling B-axis spindle head, enabling the four-axis machining of components up to 7200 mm long and weighing as much as 12 tonnes within a working envelope of 6000 x 1100 x 1050 mm.

Built on a modular platform, the DMF 600|11 can be configured as a five- or six-axis system with optional rotary or torque tables, supporting both milling and turning operations. Twin-table configurations allow pendulum machining, with a partition dividing the working area into two independent zones. This flexibility is particularly valuable for manufacturers handling diverse workloads and one-off components.

The machine also supports the integration of additional processes such as gear cutting, grinding and deep-hole drilling, enabling true one-hit machining. This capability reduces throughput times, releases capacity on other equipment and improves overall component quality. A rigid cast bed, symmetrical design and three external linear guideways in the X-axis ensure high stability and accuracy, while thermal control is enhanced through comprehensive cooling of key components, including the spindle, drives and ballscrews.

Spindle options include high-speed variants for precision work and high-torque versions for demanding materials. Rapid traverse rates of up to 42 m/min are standard, with an optional ‘Dynamic Package’ increasing speeds and acceleration for even greater productivity.

Automation options further enhance performance. With DMG Mori’s MATRIS handling system and AMR driverless transport solutions, the DMF 600|11 can operate autonomously, supporting continuous production while reducing operator workload and improving efficiency.

More information www.dmgmori.com

NCMT supports electric vehicle component manufacturing

As UK automotive manufacturing accelerates towards electrification, suppliers face increasing pressure to deliver high-quality components at scale, with absolute confidence in accuracy and repeatability. This is where the partnership between NCMT and Coventry-based EVTEC is making a tangible impact.

NCMT is supplying a growing fleet of Makino horizontal machining centres to support EVTEC’s expansion, helping to build a scalable and repeatable production platform. As NCMT key accounts manager Greig Underwood explains: “This isn’t just about a single machine, it’s about creating a consistent production line that can scale with demand.”

The collaboration began with three machines from the Makino a-nx series, enabling EVTEC to validate processes before committing to full production. That phased approach proved critical.

EVTEC NPI advisor Bran Antal says: “We needed a partner we could trust to support us from process development through to full-scale production. Starting small allowed us to refine tooling, optimise cycles and build confidence.”

The machining line now supports high-pressure aluminium die-cast components for electric drive units, where tight tolerances are essential. “Any deviation can affect performance,” adds Antal. “Makino’s accuracy and repeatability gave us confidence we could meet these demands consistently.”

The solution combines a range of Makino machines, each matched to specific tasks, from high-speed precision drilling to heavy-duty roughing. Despite their capability, compact machine footprints have enabled efficient shop-floor layouts and smooth material flow.

Beyond the machines themselves, NCMT has provided ongoing support including installation, training and technical assistance. “It’s a genuine partnership,” says Antal. “NCMT has supported us at every stage.”

For both companies, the project reflects a broader trend, as Underwood concludes: “UK automotive is investing in advanced manufacturing capability, and this project shows how that investment is enabling long-term growth in electrification.”

More information www.ncmt.co.uk

Mikron MILL E makes light work of tough, heavy jobs

United Machining says the Mikron MILL E 500U and MILL E 700U five-axis machining centres deliver exceptional precision, processing speeds and reliability.

The company, previously known as GF Machining Solutions, has a rich pedigree in milling and five-axis machining technology. United Machining reports that its Mikron brand is synonymous with quality, accuracy and high-productivity. According to the company, the Mikron MILL E 500U/700U machine tool range (which superseded the established HEM U series), has taken the market by storm – especially with aerospace, automotive and power generation component manufacturers.

Both machines have a rigid C-frame construction made from cast iron and boast large guideways, double side-supported (direct-drive) rotary tilting tables (-65/+120 degrees/n x 360 degree) that can take up to a 450 kg maximum load, and direct-drive, high-torque STEP-TEC spindle options (BT40 20 kW/12,000 rpm and HSK-A63- 36 kW/20,000 rpm, for example).

The thermally-stable spindles retain their accuracy and are designed for all eventualities, from heavy-duty roughing and high and fast removal rates, through to super-fine finishing.

Available with either the latest Heidenhain or FANUC controls, both machines feature large tool magazines (30 to 215 tools), supporting the processing of small batches without stopping for frequent re-tooling.

Increased productivity can be realised via a range of automation options that include integrated workpiece pallet and clamping systems such as Delphin, MTS, Dynafix or UPC.

Like all new United Machining machines, Mikron MILL E 500U/700U machining centres benefit from the company’s ‘My rConnect’ (Remote Assist) digital services platform that connects the machines directly and securely to United Machining experts. The result? Fast and efficient service support, troubleshooting and machine optimisation that ensures customers reduce downtime.

More information www.gfms.com/com/en.html

Starrag provides Omni Aerospace with precision at altitude

With sunlight glinting off an aircraft wing, it is easy to admire modern aerospace engineering. Behind every precision component, however, lies a combination of advanced technology and strong manufacturing partnerships. This is evident at Omni Aerospace in Wichita, Kansas.

Founded over 25 years ago by CEO John O’Neill, Omni Aerospace produces complex structural components for major OEMs including Boeing, Bombardier and Lockheed Martin. As demand grew for tighter tolerances, lighter materials and faster turnaround, the company invested in Starrag’s ECOSPEED F 1540 machining technology. Installing the first model in 2017 marked a significant step forward.

“The ECOSPEED was a game changer,” confirms O’Neill. “It enabled us to achieve levels of speed and accuracy we simply couldn’t before.”

The machine improved precision, reduced set-up times and eliminated the need for match drilling, enabling consistent production of close-tolerance aerospace parts. The impact was immediate, with revenue doubling and new business secured.

Building on this success, Omni added a second ECOSPEED and integrated both machines into a palletised flexible manufacturing system, enabling continuous, lights-out operation. The machines process demanding aluminium components, including large wing ribs requiring extensive material removal, while maintaining tight tolerances.

In 2025, Omni is expanding again with a third ECOSPEED F 1540, further increasing capacity and improving workflow efficiency. The company is also preparing to extend its capabilities into hard metal machining.

This ongoing investment reflects a strong partnership with Starrag and a shared focus on performance and innovation. As O’Neill concludes: “Starrag has helped us not only meet expectations, but exceed them.”

More information www.starrag.com