Zimmermann FZU22 Five-Axis Portal Milling Machine Delivers High-Precision Machining for Large Components!
At IMTS 2026, Zimmermann Inc. is showcasing its FZU22 Five-Axis Portal Milling Machine, a versatile solution designed to deliver exceptional accuracy, flexibility, and productivity when machining large-format components. Engineered for lightweight applications, the machine combines a compact footprint with an impressive working envelope, making it an ideal choice for manufacturers in aerospace, automotive, tooling, model making, composites, and general engineering.
The FZU22 has been developed to machine a wide range of materials, including aluminium, plastics, wood, carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP), and other advanced composite materials. Its rigid overhead gantry design ensures excellent stability and precision, allowing manufacturers to produce complex moulds, tooling, prototypes, and structural components with outstanding surface quality. Whether roughing large workpieces or finishing intricate geometries, the machine delivers the accuracy demanded by modern manufacturing.
One of the machine’s standout features is its specialised five-axis milling head, equipped with a 15 kW spindle capable of machining complex contours, deep pockets, and intricate surfaces in a single setup. Five-axis capability enables manufacturers to reduce multiple operations, improve part quality, and minimise production time by accessing difficult-to-reach areas without repositioning the workpiece.
The FZU22 offers generous machining capacity, with an X-axis travel ranging from 71 to 98 inches, Y-axis travel from 118 to 138 inches, and 49 inches of Z-axis movement. Despite this large working envelope, the machine occupies a remarkably compact 11 x 15-foot footprint, making it suitable for workshops where floor space is at a premium while requiring only minimal foundation work for installation.
Productivity is another key strength of the FZU22. The machine features rapid feed rates of up to 2,756 inches per minute in both the X and Y axes, along with acceleration capabilities reaching 118 to 197 inches per second squared. These performance characteristics enable faster cycle times while maintaining high levels of machining accuracy.
Precision is supported by compliance with ISO 230-2 accuracy standards, ensuring reliable positioning and repeatability throughout demanding machining operations. Customers can further customise the machine with a selection of different milling heads, allowing it to be tailored for specific applications and production requirements.
Standard equipment includes a 24-position automatic tool changer, enabling seamless tool changes during machining operations and reducing downtime. Users can choose between Siemens or Heidenhain CNC control systems, both offering advanced motion control, real-time monitoring, and user-friendly programming for complex five-axis machining.
Zimmermann also offers a comprehensive range of optional accessories to enhance machine capability and automation. These include a touch probe, tool measurement system, work area enclosure, larger tool changer, chip conveyor, mist and dust extraction system, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL), and a vacuum system for securely holding lightweight workpieces.
For aerospace manufacturers, the FZU22 can also be equipped with an ultrasonic cutting system, specifically designed for efficiently machining aerospace insulation materials and other specialised components.
By combining precision engineering, flexible five-axis capability, high-speed performance, and a compact design, the Zimmermann FZU22 Five-Axis Portal Milling Machine offers manufacturers an efficient solution for producing large, lightweight, and complex components with exceptional accuracy. Its versatility across multiple materials and industries makes it a valuable addition to modern manufacturing environments seeking higher productivity and improved machining quality.
