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Mikron 5 axis Machining Centre - Midland Precision Engineering

Story added 26 July 2010.

Solihull-based precision manufacturing subcontract specialist - Midland Precision Engineering Co Ltd (MPE), has recently invested in a Mikron HSM 600U ProdMod 5-axis machining centre from GF AgieCharmilles.

The machine tool, supplied with a 36,000rpm spindle (HSK-E50 interface), 7-station integrated workpiece pallet changer, 170-position ATC, through-spindle-coolant and integrated tool breakage and tool measurement system – was installed at MPE’s facility in Shirley in December 2008.

The catalyst behind MPE’s investment in the HSM 600U ProdMod machine was the Company’s successful tender to manufacture high-precision, complex fuel system parts for a new and innovative Jet aircraft prototype.

Says Adam Ormandy, Managing Director at MPE:

‘The fuel system, part of a major assembly, is characterised by its complexity (i.e. a multitude of asymmetrically-positioned and different sized diameter bores).

‘The fuel system was a prototype – and as such we knew that there would be a number of design modifications and reiterations that we would need to manage. To ensure we could handle these changes and meet the delivery deadlines required, as well as achieving the part accuracy and surface finish requirements - we knew we needed advanced 5-axis machine tool technology on our side. As a consequence we began our search for the optimum machine tool solution.’

The decision to invest in the Mikron machine tool was made for a number of reasons.

Continues Adam Ormandy:

‘It was important that the machine had integrated APC capability, so that we could load and set-up jobs on the ‘free’ pallets whilst the machine was still running. It was also equally important that the machine had a good-sized tool changer (ATC) to enable such continuous machining to occur – and to give us a high degree of manufacturing flexibility and autonomy.’

The HSM 600U ProdMod’s small, compact footprint was also a key consideration.

Other important issues affecting machine selection included the high-speed spindle capability of the HSM 600U ProdMod, with its coolant-through-spindle option, and tool break and measurement system for increased process reliability.

But it wasn’t just the HSM 600U ProdMod’s advanced features and options that sealed the deal.

Continues Adam Ormandy;

‘The Jet aircraft project is prestigious and of critical importance to MPE. That’s why, in addition to an advanced 5-axis machine tool, we were also looking for expert technical and applications help and assistance to be provided by the machine tool manufacturer/supplier as well.

‘This technical support was, as it turned out, extremely critical. Not only did the collaborative approach help us agree the machining processes to be employed – but also established the best CAD/CAM solution (Delcam’s PowerMill and PowerShape), and helped solve the fixturing and workholding challenges that confronted us too.’

‘That’s how and why the Mikron machine from GF AgieCharmilles was selected.’

MPE is not your typical precision manufacturing subcontractor.

As well as recently investing in 5-axis machine tool technology, the Company has also made significant investment in developing and improving its manufacturing operations across the board.

These include strengthening its grinding capabilities, purchasing specific testing and measurement equipment (for roundness and cylindricity etc.), creating lean and customer-focused manufacturing cells, installing temperature-controlled production zones and extending its secondary operations and services (assembly, pressure testing, laser marking, vacuum packaging etc).

Continues Adam Ormandy:

‘Investment is critical to our continued growth and success.

‘We have built a reputation in the market and with our customers for innovation, technical excellence and world-class service. We can be relied upon to deliver outstanding results and solutions when faced with even the most difficult and complicated of challenges. Our ambition always is to be the best we can possibly be – and to become our customers’ partner of choice.’

These ambitions have been realised with the on-going Jet aircraft project with MPE receiving a ‘Special Recognition Award: Aero Engine Controls’ for its work. Similar accolades and recognition have also been received from MPE’s other aero-engine (fuel systems) and medical (scientific instrumentation) customers.


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