HERMLE Launches C 22 MT 5-Axis Mill-Turn Machining Centre for Complete Multi-Process Manufacturing!

Maschinenfabrik Berthold HERMLE AG has expanded its portfolio of advanced machining solutions with the introduction of the C 22 MT, a highly versatile 5-axis mill-turn machining centre designed to combine multiple manufacturing processes within a single machine. Developed to deliver greater productivity, precision, and flexibility, the new machining centre enables manufacturers to perform milling, turning, and optional grinding and power skiving operations in one setup, eliminating the need for repeated workpiece handling and significantly improving production efficiency.

As manufacturers continue to seek higher levels of automation and process integration, the demand for multi-functional machining centres has grown rapidly. Industries such as aerospace, medical technology, automotive, energy, precision engineering, and toolmaking increasingly require complex components that traditionally demand several different machines and multiple setups. The HERMLE C 22 MT addresses these challenges by integrating several machining technologies into a single platform, allowing manufacturers to produce intricate parts faster while maintaining exceptional dimensional accuracy.

Built on the proven HERMLE C 22 machining platform, the new C 22 MT has been engineered to extend the machine’s capabilities beyond simultaneous 5-axis milling. The addition of integrated turning functionality enables manufacturers to machine rotationally symmetrical components without transferring workpieces between separate machines. Furthermore, the system can be expanded with grinding technology and power skiving, providing a comprehensive manufacturing solution capable of handling a broad range of machining tasks from roughing to final finishing.

One of the most significant advantages of the C 22 MT is its ability to complete multiple manufacturing operations in a single clamping cycle. Traditionally, components requiring milling, turning, grinding, or gear machining must be transferred between several machines, with each setup introducing the potential for alignment errors and dimensional inaccuracies. By eliminating unnecessary reclamping, the HERMLE C 22 MT significantly reduces reference errors while ensuring consistent positioning accuracy throughout the entire machining process. This integrated workflow improves overall component quality, enhances repeatability, and reduces scrap rates, particularly for complex high-value components.

The consolidation of multiple machining processes into a single machine also delivers substantial productivity benefits. Manufacturers can shorten overall production times by eliminating intermediate setups, reducing manual handling, and streamlining workflow. Machine operators spend less time preparing components between operations, allowing the spindle to remain productive for longer periods. The result is faster throughput, improved scheduling flexibility, and increased overall equipment effectiveness across the production facility.

Beyond productivity improvements, the C 22 MT has been developed with manufacturing efficiency and sustainability in mind. By combining the capabilities of several standalone machines into one compact machining centre, manufacturers can reduce capital investment in additional equipment while making more effective use of valuable factory floor space. Operating multiple processes within a single machine also reduces energy consumption, lowers material handling requirements, and simplifies production logistics, contributing to more sustainable manufacturing operations and lower overall production costs.

At the heart of the machine is HERMLE’s advanced SRT 320 MT swivelling rotary table, specifically engineered to deliver the rigidity and precision required for combined milling and turning operations. The rotary table incorporates a redesigned A-axis housing, providing enhanced structural stability under demanding cutting conditions. An optimised C-axis bearing further improves rotational accuracy and load-bearing capability, ensuring consistent machining performance during both milling and turning applications.

To maximise machining precision, the machine is equipped with high-performance clamping technology that securely holds workpieces during heavy-duty machining while maintaining excellent positioning repeatability. In addition, the rotary axis structure features an advanced water-cooled design, helping maintain thermal stability throughout extended machining cycles. By effectively controlling temperature fluctuations, the cooling system minimises thermal distortion and preserves geometric accuracy, enabling manufacturers to achieve tight tolerances even during long production runs.

The robust mechanical design of the C 22 MT enables it to handle demanding machining applications involving difficult-to-machine materials and highly complex components. The combination of rigid machine construction, advanced axis technology, and integrated process capabilities provides manufacturers with a stable platform capable of maintaining high cutting performance while delivering exceptional surface finishes and dimensional precision.

The introduction of the C 22 MT reflects the growing trend towards integrated manufacturing systems that support smarter, more flexible production environments. As manufacturers continue to adopt digital manufacturing strategies and pursue higher levels of automation, machines capable of consolidating multiple operations into a single process chain are becoming increasingly valuable in improving competitiveness and reducing production complexity.

With the launch of the C 22 MT, HERMLE further strengthens its reputation for precision engineering and advanced machining technology. By combining simultaneous 5-axis milling, turning, optional grinding, and power skiving within one highly accurate machining centre, the company offers manufacturers a future-ready solution that enhances productivity, improves component quality, reduces operating costs, and supports the evolving demands of modern high-precision manufacturing.