At the recent MACH exhibition in Birmingham, Citizen Machinery showcased the latest evolution of its patented LFV (low-frequency vibration) chip-breaking technology, marking the first major UK exhibition demonstration of four-axis simultaneous LFV capability. Although the advanced functionality was first unveiled during Citizen’s open house in Brierley Hill last autumn, MACH 2026 provided the first opportunity for a wider manufacturing audience to see the technology in action across multiple machine platforms.

Originally introduced more than a decade ago, LFV technology is integrated directly into the operating system of Citizen Cincom sliding-head lathes and selected Miyano fixed-head models. Unlike conventional chip-breaking macros, the system synchronises high-frequency vibration with spindle rotation to create intermittent cutting, effectively breaking long, stringy swarf into manageable chips.

The latest development allows LFV to operate simultaneously across four axes: the X and Z movements on both the main and sub spindles. The result is greater machining flexibility, reduced cycle times and uninterrupted production, particularly during unattended operation and when machining malleable materials such as stainless steel, titanium, aluminium, copper alloys and plastics.

Five turn-mill centres equipped with four-axis LFV were demonstrated at the exhibition, including three Miyano fixed-head lathes and two Cincom sliding-head models. Among the highlights were the new Miyano BNX-65MSY and the Cincom L32-X series 2, both capable of superimposed machining with up to three tools cutting simultaneously to maximise productivity.

Citizen also demonstrated the breadth of its portfolio with two contrasting machines: the Miyano ABX-80THY, machining large-diameter components from 80 mm bar, and the Cincom R04-VI, producing intricate 2 mm diameter parts. Together, the demonstrations reinforced Citizen Machinery’s ability to deliver high-precision, lights-out manufacturing solutions across a wide range of component sizes and applications.

More information www.citizenmachinery.co.uk

B Hepworth & Co, a specialist designer and manufacturer of bespoke marine, rail and defence windscreen wiping systems, as well as washing equipment and integrated control systems, has strengthened its machining capabilities with the installation of two new DN Solutions multi-tasking lathes supplied by Mills CNC: a box guideway Puma lathe and a long-bed Puma sub-spindle, Y-axis lathe.

Installed at the company’s Redditch facility in December, the machines form the core of two highly customised automated manufacturing cells developed collaboratively by Mills CNC’s applications engineers and B Hepworth’s technical team. Integrated with HydraFeed X-Files bar feeders, the cells automate the loading of bar stock and extraction of finished components, helping the company improve productivity, increase throughput and optimise small-part machining operations.

One of the cells also incorporates HydraFeed’s Return Speed extraction system, enabling the automatic transfer of finished parts through the sub-spindle into a high-capacity storage magazine for unattended production.

The cells are now producing a range of small, high-precision components used in B Hepworth’s pantograph and pendulum marine and rail wiper systems. Manufactured from materials including mild steel, stainless steel and brass, the parts feature tight tolerances, intricate geometries and fine surface finishes.

Edward Eddy, commercial director at B Hepworth & Co, says: “Our two new automated turning cells are pivotal in helping us achieve our small turned part production requirements. The investment has significantly increased throughput, reduced outsourcing costs and improved our ability to meet customer lead times and quality expectations.”

The latest machines replace a number of ageing stand-alone lathes and bring previously subcontracted work back in-house. B Hepworth is now working closely with Mills CNC to further optimise unattended machining performance and maximise the cells’ lights-out manufacturing potential.

More information www.millscnc.co.uk

Last month’s MACH 2026 exhibition in Birmingham proved a resounding success for Starrag with high-quality enquiries and stand visitor numbers far exceeding previous MACH exhibitions. On the stand, the Swiss machine manufacturer presented a complex turbine head that can be fully machined to high quality standards in a rapid cycle time on the company’s Bumotec 191neo turn-mill machine.

With a reputation in sectors from aerospace and power generation to the offshore sector, the Bumotec 191neo turn-mill centre was one of the few machines from the Starrag portfolio small enough to fit on a stand at MACH. Regardless, the machine, which is known as the ‘Swiss Army Knife‘ of small part machining, demonstrated its seven axes and flexibility, enticing visitors with the opportunities it presents for complex one-hit machining in sectors such as luxury goods, medical technology, micromechanics and avionics.

The Bumotec 191neo is characterised by productivity and precision. In addition to its stability, this is also due to the high torque of the Starrag milling spindle, the fast tool changer and the thermal properties.

Commenting on the MACH exhibition, Starrag UK’s sales director Lee Scott said: “MACH was another huge success for Starrag UK, where the quality and quantity of enquiries was exceptional. As a marquee brand, we’re recognised by manufacturers in all sectors. However, the beauty of having a compact Bumotec 191neo on the stand was the awareness it presented to our larger part manufacturing customers of the sheer diversity of our portfolio. With the Bumotec 191neo enjoying major success in the Irish medical industry, as well as the luxury goods markets worldwide, we took a lot of enquiries that revolved around the one-hit machining of complex small parts.”

More information www.starrag.com