Hermle’s Gen2 Five-Axis Machining Centers: A Fully Integrated Platform for Modern Manufacturing!

Hermle USA’s new Gen2 series of five-axis machining centers, including the C 650, C 32, and C 42, are specifically designed to provide high levels of integration, efficiency, and advanced capabilities for modern manufacturing operations. These machines are built to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, offering features that support automation, sustainability, and exceptional spindle uptime.

The Gen2 platform has been engineered with the future in mind, with Hermle upgrading both the hardware and software of its machines to ensure that they meet the increasingly complex demands of contemporary production environments. A key part of this update is the new ProfiNet communication bus and IO-Link-compatible sensors. These components enhance the overall performance of the machines, boost diagnostics, and enable long-term adaptability with advanced interface technology and service tools. These upgrades improve the machines’ overall efficiency and connectivity, making them ready for smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0.

One of the standout features of the Gen2 series is its ability to consolidate multiple setups, capabilities, and machines into a single fully integrated platform. This streamlines workflows, saves valuable time and labor, and maximizes floor space by eliminating the need for separate machines for different processes. The result is improved throughput and quality while reducing operational complexity and costs.

The Gen2 series offers several new capabilities, including contour broaching for high-precision sealing grooves, grinding for complex materials and fine surface finishes, and power skiving, which allows for complete gear production in a single pass. For high-performance applications, such as aerospace and semiconductor manufacturing, the machine offers diamond polishing for hardened components up to 60 HRC. Additionally, the Gen2 machines feature real-time process feedback via temperature and ultrasound measurement, enabling continuous monitoring and optimization of the production process.

Hermle has also introduced a range of advanced machining technologies in the Gen2 line. For example, the synchronous deburring and reverse countersinks processes are now integrated into the new Hermle Technology Component. This part brings together 13 machining technologies, all of which can be completed in one machine, under a single setup. This significantly reduces setup times and enhances the overall flexibility and productivity of the machine.

Furthermore, the Gen2 machines feature an innovative redesigned coolant system that improves filtration, extends coolant life, and reduces maintenance. Smarter energy use is another key benefit, as the frequency-controlled drives adapt power to the load, reducing energy costs. The machines are also equipped with advanced spindle diagnostics to minimize unplanned downtime and improve predictive maintenance capabilities.

In terms of automation, the Gen2 series is fully compatible with Hermle’s RS 2 Gen2 automation system, which can handle both pallets and parts. Additionally, the Smart Tracker feature optimizes space by intelligently managing workflows and identifying pallet contents. This smart integration supports seamless automation in production environments, ensuring greater flexibility and efficiency.

To enhance tool capacity without taking up more floor space, the Gen2 models come equipped with the ZM 30, a compact tool magazine that adds 30 additional tools while occupying nearly 50% less space than traditional magazines. This system is designed for easy retrofitting in shops that need to expand tool capacity without expanding their footprint.

Overall, Hermle’s Gen2 five-axis machining centers provide an integrated, flexible solution that addresses the needs of modern manufacturing environments, combining advanced technology with a user-friendly interface and automation capabilities for optimized performance, reduced downtime, and greater production efficiency.