INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Bumotec solves medical production puzzle

Ireland-based Dawnlough Precision is a 110-employee subcontract manufacturing business that has travelled a relentless journey of growth since it started manufacturing tooling for the aerospace and medical industries back at the start of the millennium. This ascension has arrived through an aggressive growth strategy and investment in high-end machine tools, including two Bumotec 191neo turn-mill centres from Starrag.

“Our core business in the medical sector predominantly focused on vascular work and, from this, we’ve expanded our offering,” explains Keith Kennedy, aerospace production manager. “We now produce an array of components for our robotic-assisted surgical [RAS]customers, as well as consumable instruments.

It is here that the search for a suitable machine led Dawnlough to purchase its first Bumotec 191neo FTL-R in June 2022.

“We needed a machine that could offer accuracy of 2-3µm on production runs, short cycle times and incredible efficiency because it’s a very competitive market,” continues Kennedy. “We visited many companies offering high-accuracy machines, but it’s only as you look closer and purchase a machine for this type of work that you really see the added value they bring.

“Some of the functions of the Bumotec, such as thesoftware for monitoring the machine, the cutting load, the contact cutting time and the large 90-tool ATC are incredible.It was a huge investment and an unknown risk, but the Bumotec ticked all of our boxes.”

Following the success of the Bumotec 191neo in FTL-R configuration, the Galway company added a second Bumotec 191neo in March 2023. Supplied in FTL-PRM configuration, the subsequent Bumotec 191neo features complete automation and a 20-position pallet station for lights-out production.

For further information www.starrag.com

Even faster Nakamura-Tome turn-mill centre

The Nakamura-Tome range of multi-tasking turning centres is renowned for being quick and productive, but now there is an even faster model. The launch of the Nakamura-Tome NTY3-100V now available in the UK from the Engineering Technology Group (ETG) can reduce cycle times by more than 30% over its predecessor.

The new multi-tasking NTY3-100V is the second instalment of the V series, following the WY-100V announced last July. The V series has speed at the core of its design concept, starting with the incorporation of Nakamura’s ChronoCut software. ChronoCut reduces idle time between operations with a multitude of new featuresthat increase production speed, all without changing the machining conditions or impacting machine accuracy. 

As standard, the twin-spindle Nakamura NTY3-100V includes Y-axis capabilities on all three tooling turrets that enhance processing capabilities with balanced left and right spindle machining. Simultaneous upper and lower turret machining further support high productivity levels.


As a three-turret machine, the NTY3-100V can accommodate up to 72 tools. By pre-setting tools for two or three different component types beforehand, there is no need to change tool set-ups for processing a multitude of different workpieces. Moreover, by adjusting the turret balancing time between the left and right spindles and utilising the lower turret for centre support, gains are available in both flexibility and speed.

Nakamura-Tome CEO Shogo Nakamura says: “Many customers want automated processing of precision workpieces while ensuring high and flexible production volumes. On top of that, we’re determined to deliver the clear value of fast cycle time and set-up time reductions. The NTY3-100V provides this, incorporating feedback and opinions from various internal departments and customers in its development.”

For further information www.engtechgroup.com

Tornos Swiss XT at micro-machining show

Tornos presentedits Swiss XT at SIAMS 2024 in Moutier, Switzerland last month exemplifying the potential of the machine’s performance in micro-machining operations at small and medium-sized turned-part manufacturers.

Characteristics of the Swiss XT include its ergonomics and compact design, which deliver a minimal footprint and easy access to the three tool systems. Among the aims of these innovationsis reducing maintenance to zero.

With configurations available in eight or nine axes and the ability to use three tools in cut simultaneously, the Swiss XT increases productivity. According to Tornos, the nine-axis version, with its three Zaxes, simplifies complex operations.

The Swiss XT offers up to 48 tool positions, including 18 rotating positions. This capability allows customisation for a wide range of machining processes. The expanded tooling capacity ensures that users can maximise the productivity and efficiency of the machine while meeting complex and diverse production requirements.

Integrated advanced features of the Tornos Swiss XT include Eco Mode to reduces energy consumption and the ACB Plus system for efficient chip management. These advances ensure safer, more sustainable production and underline the commitment of Tornos to both energy efficiency and production safety. 

Also available for Swiss XT machines is the Tornos TISIS software. TISIS simplifies the use of special driven tools, while the integrated Gantt chart facilitates the synchronisation of machine channels. These modules allow operators to master the complexity of the Swiss XT quickly and ensure a smooth transition to this technology. 

For further information www.tornos.com

HBK customisable load cell measurement chain

HBK, a leader in test and measurement solutions, is introducing its Load Cell Measurement Chain (LCMC), a customisable solution that allows users to tailor their measurement system to meet their individual needs, and install it according to the plug and play principle.

The LCMC is a combination of HBK load cell and amplifier unit. With a selection of 14 available load cells, users can select the one that best suits their requirements and pair it with a common amplifier unit, including IO-Link.What sets the LCMC apart is its potential for creating over 11,000 unique configurations. This standardised solution not only delivers performance and cost-effectiveness,it also ensures a precise match for specific measurement needs.


Key features of the smart, digital load cell measurement chain includeIO-Link compatibility. All 14 load cells are available with IO-Link technology, offering advantages such as smart functions (pre-processing of data, self-monitoring and warnings), bi-directional sensor communication and easy installation.


Although the LCMC is one measurement chain, it has multiple purposes.It is possible to use the same amplifier electronics for various load cells, streamlining both processes and procurement. This versatility enhances efficiency and flexibility in day-to-day operations.

“We’re thrilled to offer our customers a wide choice of load cells combined with a wide choice of output options in the LCMC,” says product managerSimon Kleefeldt. “This LCMC empowers our clients with an easy to set up, tailored measurement chain at an attractive price.”

For further information www.hbkworld.com 

Arch Motorcycle partners with Hexagon

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division andArch Motorcycle, a manufacturer of high-performance bespoke motorcycles, are partnering to support the quality control demands of engineering and producing unique riding experiences for Arch customers.  

By combining artistry and engineering with precision technologies, Arch maximises the performance potential of its motorcycles while keeping innovation at the forefront of design. The partnership is geared to help Arch expand its commitment to producing bespoke motorcycles by fully digitising quality processes throughout engineering and manufacturing with new measurement technologies. 

Among the 3D scanning technologies to be implemented by Arch Motorcycle include Hexagon’s equipment and software for reverse engineering, which will enable the company to retain classic design elements for application to products in development. The technology will also help Arch Motorcycle, which was co-founded by actor Keanu Reeves in 2011, create tailored ergonomic motorcycle designs that incorporate individual customer specifications for shocks, seats, handlebars, foot controls and overall fit. 

The ability to perform quick digitisation of part dimensions and surface finishes for comparison with CAD models and quality standards will enable Arch to improve both throughput and quality control easily and with confidence in the data. It also allows the company to keep an accurate digital 3D record of each customer’s motorcycle to support future customer service. 

Hexagon devices to be used by the Arch manufacturing team include a measurement arm (Absolute Arm) with line-scanner (the AS1 laser scanner) that enables even inexperienced users to capture measurements directly into associated software. The 3D laser scanner provides a guided workflow that helps users visualise 3D models and guides them through successful coverage of critical features and surface measurements. Paired with tightly integrated measurement software, the laser scanner also makes it easy to scan large components and reverse engineer parts. 

For further information www.hexagon.com