Moyola Precision Engineering Powers Aerospace Growth with the UK’s First HBZ AeroCell 160 | 400

Castledawson, Northern Ireland – With demand in the aerospace sector continuing to rise, Moyola Precision Engineering has taken a bold step forward in its production capabilities – investing in the UK’s first HBZ AeroCell 160 | 400 5-axis horizontal machining centres from bavius.

The machines mark a major milestone in Moyola’s ongoing commitment to performance, innovation, and global competitiveness.

Engineering a New Era of Productivity

In response to continued growth and increasing demand across the aerospace sector, Moyola launched a strategic R&D initiative to expand capacity and revolutionised its manufacturing approach for a major international aerospace program. The project focused on developing a new method of manufacturing, incorporating innovative tooling strategies and a reimagined, highly efficient production workflow.

Central to this initiative was the installation of two HBZ AeroCell 160 | 400 machines – one installed in December 2023, the second in February 2025 – configured as a fully integrated twin-pallet manufacturing cell and tailored for high-speed machining of large aluminium aerospace parts.

Lee Averill CADCAM Engineering Manager at Moyola remarked, “The HBZ AeroCell setup has played a pivotal role in redefining our approach to large workpiece machining, consistently exceeding expectations in both speed and precision.”

High-Speed, High-Precision Machining at Scale

Built by bavius, a German machine manufacturer with over four decades of experience in 5-axis machining, the HBZ AeroCell 160 combines speed, precision, and reliability. Headquartered in southern Germany, bavius has become a global technology partner for high-performance aluminium machining particularly in the aerospace sector.

With horizontal machining, unique dual pallet changer, and a powerful, high-performance spindle, the machine delivers:

• Realistic, in-action material removal rates in excess of 12 litres per minute – not compromising on process reliability even in large-volume parts
• Precision machining across large, complex geometries, maintaining tight tolerances even at high speeds
• Seamless transitions between roughing and finishing operations
• Significantly reduced cycle times with rapid tool changes, synchronised twin-pallet operation and intelligent process control combined with high machine dynamics

Lee tells us, “The installation of the HBZ AeroCell was smooth and efficient, with minimal disruption. Since commissioning, machine uptime has been good, and operational performance has exceeded expectations”

From Installation to Impact

Now the installed AeroCell machines are operating at full production capacity. Thanks to optimised engineering, intelligent pallet handling, and a well-balanced takt time, Moyola benefits from a highly stable and continuous machining process with minimal downtime an ideal setup for scaling production while maintaining precision and consistency.

This new capability has allowed Moyola to deliver on critical production commitments with greater flexibility and efficiency. The combination of high-speed machining and ultra-precise output means Moyola can continue to meet the demanding requirements of the aerospace sector with confidence.

A Long-Term Technology Partnership

The successful deployment of the UK’s first HBZ AeroCell 160 | 400 machines underscores a deepening partnership between Moyola and bavius. Both companies share a commitment to quality, technical excellence, and driving innovation in aerospace manufacturing.

Lee explains, “Deploying the UK’s first HBZ AeroCell machines marks a major step forward in our partnership with bavius. Embracing this cutting-edge technology has been both exciting and challenging — driving innovation while reinforcing our shared commitment to excellence.”

About Moyola Precision Engineering

Moyola Precision Engineering is a trusted partner to the global aerospace and defense industries, delivering high-performance solutions through the precision manufacture of complex 5 & 6 axis components. With advanced capabilities in machining, assembly, kitting direct to line, and in-house treatments and chemical processing, it supports OEMs and Tier 1 & 2 suppliers with end-to-end manufacturing excellence. Specialising in aluminum, titanium, steel, and plastic components, Moyola combines cutting-edge technology with deep industry expertise to meet the most demanding specifications in civil and defense aerospace programs.

Founded in 1976, Moyola Precision Engineering began as a small manufacturing business in Castledawson, Northern Ireland. Over the decades, it has grown into a world-class provider of integrated machining and assembly solutions, serving the global aerospace, defense, space, and industrial sectors. The company has built a strong reputation for precision manufacturing, particularly in complex 5 & 6 axis components, and has continually expanded its capabilities through significant investment in technology, facilities, and workforce development.

Moyola has achieved international success by exporting to customers across Western Europe, North America, Asia, and South Africa. Its commitment to innovation is reflected in its consistent reinvestment in research and development—up to 30% of turnover in some years—and its collaboration with universities and government agencies. In recent years, Moyola has doubled its floor space and added a NADCAP-certified treatments facility, reinforcing its position as a key supplier to major aerospace programs.