Highly dynamic machining center enables larger and more complex products

As a company active in high-quality metalworking, it is important to keep distinguishing yourself continuously. Bulex Metaaltechniek in Deurne, Brabant, did so by, among other things, investing two years ago in Hermle's top model C 62, a five-axis CNC machining center. "The large-format products we can make with this for the high-tech industry, you don't find on every street corner," says director-owner Michel Lexmond.

As a manufacturing company for the high-tech industry, Bulex Metaaltechniek works for the automotive industry, food industry, lamppost industry and the medical sector, among others. "Many of our customers also supply ASML, which is obviously an important economic engine in the south of the Netherlands. We make all kinds of mechanical parts for these customers," says Lexmond. "However, a general trend is that ASML's products, and therefore the mechanical parts incorporated in them, are getting bigger and bigger. In order to keep up in that market, we therefore decided several years ago to invest in a CNC machine that would allow you to make such large and complex parts. The choice fell on Hermle's five-axis C 62, which makes it possible to produce workpieces with a diameter of 1400 millimeters and a height of 900 millimeters. For a five-axis CNC machine, these large sizes are quite exceptional. This enables us as a small company with twenty-five employees to make products that you don't find on every street corner. This clearly distinguishes us in the market."  

Running 24/7

Hermle's five-axis C 62 is a highly dynamic machining center and, as mentioned, is especially suitable for machining large and complex workpieces with high precision. "This machine guarantees a consistent design for efficient machining of CNC-milled and CNC-turned parts," Lexmond clarified. "Thanks to numerous additional functions, this machine makes it possible to work extremely precisely and cost-effectively on workpieces up to 2,500 kilograms. Ideal for the high-tech sector we mainly focus on, where high precision and free forms are required. In addition, the C 62 offers various options for loading workpieces to ensure optimal operation. Despite its large capacity, the machine is relatively compact, which saves space in the workshop. Moreover, the C 62 is easy to interface with robotic systems, pallet changers and automation solutions for unmanned production. We, too, opted for such a version with a robot equipped with nine pallets. This has the advantage that this machining center can keep running 24/7 if required." 

One stop shopping

According to the director, the long-standing relationship that Bulex Metaalbewerking cherishes with Hermle has to do not only with the "Deutsche Gründlichkeit" of the machines, but also with the excellent service. "If there is a breakdown today, it is solved immediately tomorrow. This is another reason why we keep coming back to Hermle." The investment in the C 62 fits seamlessly into Bulex Metaaltechniek's strategy of continuously staying ahead in this highly competitive market. "Many companies in our sector specialize in welding or machining, for example. But there are few companies like us that have virtually all disciplines in-house," Lexmond continued. "Welding, turning, milling, frame building, sheet metal or construction: we can do it all, including, if required, taking care of surface treatments such as powder coating, galvanizing, nickel plating or anodizing. In short, we take care of everything from A to Z. Just like being able to make large and complex products, that one-stop shop idea is a distinctive success factor of our company."