This new academic space has two state-of-the-art machines: a GENOS L250II-e horizontal lathe and a GENOS M560V machining center, both with OKUMA’s advanced OSP control, the former with the P300 version and the latter with the latest P500 version. Thanks to these technologies, students will be able to train in CNC machine programming and operation, broadening their horizons toward new job opportunities in the advanced manufacturing industry.

The event was attended by prominent representatives from academia and industry: Rafael Ontiveros, Director of Engineering and Applications at HEMAQ; Richard Estes, Vice President of OKUMA Latin America; Benito Gritzewsky, General Director of HEMAQ; Martín Gueta, Director of the Santa Catarina Poniente Polytechnic High School; María del Roble Garza, Vice-Rector of Higher Secondary Education at UDEM; and Susana Bremer, Director of Development at UDEM, as well as leaders from the region’s manufacturing industry.

The project was made possible thanks to the collaboration of renowned international brands and business units that provided tools, accessories, and technological solutions: Renishaw, Schunk, ISCAR, Varqus, Specflu, Kaeser, as well as OTOMATIQA, TEQNIPRO, and PERIFERIQ from HEMAQ.

With this initiative, UDEM’s Polytechnic High School consolidates its position as a benchmark in technical and technological training for young people in Mexico. The creation of this laboratory represents a decisive step in promoting national talent at a key moment for the industry, where the preparation of new generations is essential to maintain the country as a hub for investment and development in advanced manufacturing.

Tight tolerances on complex geometries

Large parts, such as stringers, structural beams or wing rails, must meet micron tolerances even on dimensions of several meters. Machines like Modig’s RigiMill MG Vertical Machining Center,
a 3-, 4- or 5-axis machine with large machining capabilities, are designed specifically for these scenarios. Thanks to its structural rigidity and gantry-type architecture, it offers repeatable accuracy over long paths, ideal for machining critical aircraft structural components.

Traceability and documentation

Modig’s machining centers can be integrated with real-time monitoring systems, production data collection and advanced sensing, meeting the quality and traceability standards required by aerospace OEMs such as Airbus, Boeing or Embraer.

Competitive advantages of investing in machinery for large parts

With equipment such as the RigiMill MT, manufacturers can offer machining services for wing spars, fuselage structures or structural components up to 20 meters, a capability highly valued by aerospace contractors, gaining access to new markets and higher value contracts.

By internalizing critical processes with Modig technology, manufacturers gain autonomy, which translates into less outsourcing and greater quality control. The HHV2, for example, allows complete aluminum profiles to be machined in a single pass, eliminating intermediate processes and reducing the margin for human error.

Modig also stands out for integrating automation, fast tool change, 5-axis heads and continuous material feed. This turns its centers into true compact production cells for medium and long series, increasing productivity levels thanks to its integrated technologies.

Companies with Modig technology are perceived as high-end suppliers, capable of meeting international quality standards. It is not for nothing that many suppliers specialized in aerospace materials and parts use their machines in AS9100-certified plants. And, although Modig is strongly focused on the aerospace sector, its solutions are perfectly applicable in industries such as defense, railway and power generation, allowing to diversify projects and maximize the return on investment.

Machining large parts in the aerospace industry is one of the most complex challenges in modern manufacturing. But it also represents one of the greatest opportunities for growth, innovation and differentiation. Investing in machinery like Modig’s, with specific solutions for advanced materials, high precision and automation, is investing in the future of industrial competitiveness. The market does not only reward technical capacity: it rewards strategic vision. Contact us and find out how we can help you achieve this vision.

1. Confirm Machine Calibration

Every 5-axis CNC machine has a unique calibration or kinematic configuration. It is crucial to know whether the system is table-table, spindle-spindle or table-spindle type, as this affects how the axes move and possible interferences.

2. Use advanced CAM software

High-quality CAM software allows you to program efficient toolpaths and anticipate collisions. In the case of Okuma, this brand has a system called Collision Avoidance System, a function that stops the operation immediately before the collision in both manual and automatic operations; this allows the operator to concentrate on machining without additional worries and reduces setup times for the first cycle times.

3. Perform simulations prior to production

Okuma’s Digital Twin simulation system facilitates testing in a virtual environment complete with 3D models. This highly accurate simulation calculates cycle times, geometries and energy consumption. In addition, it helps to calculate production schedules with estimated cycle times, as well as estimated production times and costs. 

4. Define precision and motion stability

Okuma’s SERVONavi function improves accuracy during machining, as well as surface quality of the cut, optimizing accuracy and results in both surface quality of machining. This option can also eliminate motion peaks, noise, vibration and fold marks resulting from long-term use of CNC machinery.

Also, setting rotational and linear axis limits in the CNC machine control software will prevent unexpected movements that can cause collisions.

5. Optimize cutting tool selection

Using tools that are too long or unsuitable for the CNC machine can increase the risk of collision with the workpiece or other machine components. It is recommended to select tools with the right length and the correct angle for the work to be performed.

6. Check the workpiece clamping

Poor clamping can cause the workpiece to move during machining, resulting in impacts with the tool or spindle. Make sure that the part is properly clamped and that the fixture does not interfere with the tool path.

7. Use proper roughing and finishing processes.

The use of well-planned roughing processes reduces unnecessary movements that can cause collisions. Roughing should be performed with safe strategies, minimizing abrupt changes of direction.

8. Establish safety and verification processes

Implementing checklists before running programs on the CNC machine is excellent practice. Checking the toolpath, part fixture and tooling before starting the machining cycle can prevent costly errors.

9. Programming and operation training

Operator knowledge is key to avoiding collisions. Providing ongoing training in the use of CAM software, CNC machine control and safety best practices reduces the risk of human error.

10. Real-time monitoring and the use of collision sensors.

Some modern machines have real-time monitoring systems and sensors that can detect potential collisions and stop the process before damage occurs. Integrating these technologies can save repair costs and downtime.

Preventing collisions on 5-axis machining centers is a task that requires a comprehensive approach, from proper CAM software selection to training personnel and implementing safety controls. Applying these tips will allow you to improve the efficiency of your processes and reduce tool and machine damage costs. Safety and planning are key to successful machining!