Reliance Precision to update 5-axis machining with automated cell

Huddersfield engineering firm, Reliance Precision, has placed an order for a Hermle C 22 U 5-axis machining centre fitted with the manufacturer’s IH60 integrated workpiece handling system and a 24-position magazine for System 3R pallets. Sole UK and Ireland agent, Kingsbury, will deliver and commission the production cell this summer (2014).

Describing itself as a specialist engineering company providing custom-built, high reliability, precision components and sub-systems for diverse market applications, Reliance has extensive facilities in design, development, prototyping, manufacturing, assembly and test. It already operates three 5-axis machines from a different vendor but wants to upgrade this area of production to meet customers’ budgets and demands for ever higher precision parts.

Alex Greenhalgh, Estimating Manager, commented, “The flexibility of the Hermle system was a prime reason for choosing it.

“The automation equipment is not fixed in front of the machine, but moves to the left at the touch of a button to provide free access to the working area to facilitate setting the machine and running off small batches.

“Versatility is important to us, as we never know what type of job is around the corner.

“We are impressed with the accuracy and reliability of a 4-axis Hermle machine we installed last year to manufacture a tightly toleranced part for one of our aerospace customers, and the back-up from Kingsbury has been exemplary, so we are confident that our new purchase will be similarly successful.”

The C 22 U will be the first automated vertical machining centre in the Huddersfield factory, as existing pallet pool and APC machines on the shop floor are horizontal-spindle models. The pallet system will allow for increased spindle utilisation and flexible production.

For further information about the benefits of integrating a 5-axis machining centre for efficiency, read our complete guide to 5-axis machining.

Reliance Precision to update 5-axis machining with automated cell

Alex Greenhalgh, Estimating Manager, commented, “The flexibility of the Hermle system was a prime reason for choosing it.

“The automation equipment is not fixed in front of the machine, but moves to the left at the touch of a button to provide free access to the working area to facilitate setting the machine and running off small batches.

“Versatility is important to us, as we never know what type of job is around the corner.

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