PROMEBA, a specialist in the manufacture of machined parts for the automotive industry and located in the state of Guanajuato, opened its doors to share its achievements, extensive production capacity, and the implementation of new technologies.

“Our relationship with HEMAQ began in 2020, when we needed to develop a new business unit. We learned about them through our clients and other recommendations, so we approached them. Together, we carried out the necessary analysis to acquire our first OKUMA machine,” said PROMEBA’s Director of Operations.

Over 30 OKUMA machines in operation

The first equipment acquired was a 2SP-2500H multi-spindle CNC lathe, a machine designed to produce complex parts. Since then, PROMEBA has added more than 30 OKUMA machines to its facility, including horizontal and multi-spindle lathes, which operate non-stop throughout the year thanks to the strong partnership with HEMAQ.

“The starting point of our relationship was the need to increase installed capacity. However, incorporating their CNC machines has also significantly improved productivity by providing precision and accuracy through their design and technology,” emphasized PROMEBA’s Manufacturing and Projects Manager.

Comprehensive solutions for the automotive industry

“At PROMEBA, we specialize in manufacturing precision-machined parts for the automotive sector,” the team explained. “The key was that HEMAQ didn’t just offer machines, they offered a comprehensive solution that met production volume, tolerances, and part geometries, while also making us more competitive.”

Both companies collaborated closely on engineering, process design, and the selection of tools and accessories to achieve efficient machining. This collaboration became the foundation of a long-term, trust-based partnership, one strengthened by HEMAQ’s philosophy of always-available service.

“Thanks to their attention and support, we have been able to increase productivity, as well as the stability and robustness of our processes. Overall, we’ve made a 180° turn in terms of production, reaching high levels of efficiency,” added PROMEBA’s Head of New Business Development.

Technology that boosts competitiveness

The 2SP-2500H model reduces delivery times while maintaining exceptional surface finishes. “Their guidance has been key in helping us strategically select the most suitable CNC machinery. This translates into quality products, with the required volumes and at competitive prices, directly supporting our QQS philosophy: Quality, Quantity, and Service.”

By continuously reviewing the technology and performance of their OKUMA machines, PROMEBA remains committed to modernization and expansion, pursuing steady and sustainable growth. “We’ve chosen to continue working with HEMAQ to upgrade our equipment. This has allowed us to increase efficiency and expand production capacity in a second business unit.”

Constant support and personalized service

PROMEBA emphasizes that personalized and consistent support is crucial for uninterrupted operations. “HEMAQ’s attention has been constant and personal; among the closest we have. That proximity allows them to truly understand our needs and provide solutions tailored to our operations.”

As a CNC machining supplier, PROMEBA is constantly developing new projects, driven by efficiency and production excellence. “HEMAQ has greatly supported us in several developments through their know-how, covering machines, accessories, and tooling. They’ve provided the framework that enables us to manufacture new products with tighter geometric tolerances and higher precision,” said the Operations Department.

Excellence through technology

PROMEBA’s capacity continues to grow, accompanied by new and challenging projects. “We’re currently machining a complex part due to the large amount of excess material to remove. However, thanks to OKUMA’s technology, we are extremely satisfied with the process and equipment selection. These machines are precise, efficient, and help us remain highly productive.”

Through the combination of strong service relationships, support for new business development, and state-of-the-art technology, PROMEBA maintains world-class quality standards. “We’ve achieved a high-performance rating, the machinery has been key to ensuring stable processes, minimal scrap rates, and three consecutive years with zero rejected parts,” the team concluded after a highly productive visit to their facilities

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.

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!

Lathe size and capacity

It is critical to evaluate the size of the parts to be machined. CNC lathes vary in terms of machining capacity, so it is crucial to select one that can handle the maximum diameter and length of the project parts. In addition, the space available in the shop to accommodate the machine and its layout relative to other equipment must be considered.

Control type and software

CNC lathes operate under different control systems, for example, Okuma CNC lathes work with different variants of the OSP control, with the OSP-P500 being the latest version available.  While other brands might use Fanuc or Siemens numerical controls. The choice of system will depend on both the operator’s preference and compatibility with the CAD/CAM software used. A system that is intuitive and easy to program will reduce learning time and improve productivity; for example, a shop with several Okuma machine tools will have the advantage of reduced lead times and greater efficiency.

Number of axis

Traditional CNC lathes typically have two axis (X and Z), but if the job requires more complex geometries, lathes with additional axis (such as Y and C) are an option. These allow milling and other advanced operations to be performed in a single setup, improving efficiency and accuracy. Also, opting for CNC lathes with extra axis and higher precision capabilities can mean greater profitability, as they are flexible for other machining projects.

Spindle speed and power

Spindle speed and spindle power are decisive for the type of material to be machined. Harder materials require more power and a robust spindle, while for small, precise parts, speed is a key factor. A safe approach to determining these variables for your project is to consult with a team of experienced engineers. In our case, our partners and customers are assured of the best advice available in the market, and our engineering team provides advice on equipment, tooling, accessories, peripherals and even automation systems, ensuring an efficient and cost-effective project.

Automation and additional accessories

Modern CNC lathes can include automatic functions such as bar loaders, automatic turrets or in-process gauging systems (in-process gauging) systems. These accessories increase productivity by reducing manual intervention and ensuring greater accuracy in continuous operations. These options can be loading and unloading, but systems can also be added with other CNC machine tools to reduce production times. For more information on our Automation systems available, please visit www.otomatiqa.com/en.

Technical service and after-sales support

Good technical support is crucial. The complexity of CNC lathes means that any unexpected downtime can lead to financial losses. The solution to this is to have 24/7 support from a team of experienced engineers and technicians, as well as after-sales support that includes quick technical assistance and spare parts with a sense of urgency and easy access.

Conclusion

Investing time in evaluating all these aspects will ensure a choice that maximizes the productivity of your project and minimizes long-term costs. At HEMAQ we believe in our customers and their projects, because our philosophy is focused on creating productive relationships of trust. With us, you will be able to find Integral Solutions for all your machining needs, because we have the best brands worldwide chosen based on a thorough evaluation; in addition to 24/7 Support and more than 36 years of experience. 

Vertical Machining Centers

The Importance of CNC Machining Centers in Modern Industry

In addition, CNC Machining Centers are highly automated, which means they can operate continuously and reduce the need for manual intervention. This not only minimizes the risk of errors, but also optimizes the use of resources, allowing operators to concentrate on more strategic tasks within the production process.

Successful examples in the use of CNC Machining Centers

Numerous companies have adopted CNC Machining Centers to improve their competitiveness. For example, in the automotive industry, renowned manufacturers have implemented these machines to produce critical components such as engine blocks and cylinder heads with unprecedented precision. This adoption of technology has led to shorter lead times and improved product quality.

CNC Machining Centers have revolutionized the way products are manufactured in a variety of industries. Thanks to their ability to perform complex operations and their high precision, these machines enable manufacturers to reduce production time and improve the quality of the final product. This translates into increased customer satisfaction and improved profitability for companies.

Benefits of Automation in CNC Machining Centers

These are the most common equipment due to their versatility and ease of operation. Their vertically oriented spindle allows machining flat surfaces and cavities in fixed parts on the worktable, so they are widely used in the manufacture of molds, dies and medium-sized components.

Applications

The future of CNC Machining Centers

As technology advances, CNC Machining Centers continue to evolve. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning promises to take automation to a new level. This will allow for greater customization in production and continuous improvement in operational efficiency.

Advantages

• Lower cost compared to horizontal machining centers.
• Easy setup and operation.
• Suitable for machining small and medium size parts.

Horizontal Machining Centers

The arrangement of the spindle in this equipment facilitates access to the parts from different angles, making it more comfortable for operators, and the chip or burr is more easily removed during machining, which improves the efficiency and quality of the work. Also, these offer the possibility of machining several sides of a part with a single clamping and the use of different pallets, which increases the productivity of the project.

Applications

• Gas and Oil industry: machining valves, pumps and other large components.
• Heavy machinery manufacturing: machining of gearboxes, frames and other excavator components.
• Mass production: machining of high-volume parts with high precision, such as transmissions and gearboxes.

5-Axis Machining Centers

This equipment allows rotation and movement of the tool in the three traditional axes (X, Y, Z) and two additional axes, making it possible to machine parts with complex geometries in a single setup, reducing production costs and improving machining accuracy. 

Applications:

• Aerospace industry: manufacturing engine parts and aerodynamic components.
• Medical industry: production of orthopedic implants, prostheses and surgical tools.
• Complex mold industry: creation of molds with complex geometries in a single operation.

Multi-Tasking Machining Centers

Multi-Tasking Machining Centers combine turning, milling and drilling operations, among other techniques. They are ideal for machining complex parts that require different operations without the need of other machine tools, thus reducing production time and costs.

Applications:

• Medical industry: production of components for medical equipment and surgical devices.
• Aerospace industry: machining complex and tight tolerance parts.
• Machine manufacturing: machining of parts that require multiple operations.

Advantages:

• High flexibility for a variety of parts and operations.
• Reduced set-up times between different types of jobs.
• Ideal for mixed production shops.

In addition to helping you choose the ideal equipment for your project, our commitment is to find the best configurations of tools, accessories and peripherals for your project; as well as to guide you during project implementation and provide you with qualified technical support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our goal is to deliver quality, excellence, robustness and precision in each CNC Equipment in our catalog, in this way we seek to ensure you improve your manufacturing processes through Machine Tools and technical support services with the highest technology.

In addition, industrial connectivity, known as Industry 4.0, is enabling this equipment to communicate with each other and with other production systems, further optimizing workflow and real-time decision making. This is essential for companies seeking to remain competitive in an increasingly complex and demanding production environment.

Conclusions

CNC Machining Centers represent a crucial investment for any company looking to improve its production capacity. Not only do they offer versatility and precision, but they are also fundamental to the automation and modernization of manufacturing processes. With their continued development, these machines are likely to become the industry standard, helping companies meet current and future market challenges.

Preventive maintenance is crucial to ensure the efficiency of your CNC equipment and that part production goals are met, and is vital to prolonging the life of your CNC lathe or machining center. Considering that everything that can fail will eventually fail, the only way to prevent costly failures and production downtime is intelligently scheduled preventive maintenance.

What are the advantages of preventive maintenance?

• Improve the efficiency of your equipment and keep its components in optimal condition.
• Increase the service life of your CNC machinery
• Prevent costly failures
• Increased safety for your operators
• Higher quality of your final product

Considering all these aspects, scheduled maintenance serves as a preventive strategy to lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) of CNC equipment, because even though it adds up to short-term costs, it reduces potential expenses that could jeopardize the profitability of a piece of equipment or even a project as a whole.

TCO is defined as a tool that helps us evaluate the total costs (the sum of direct and indirect costs) associated with the purchase of CNC equipment or any other capital asset. This resource provides valuable information about the purchase cost, as well as usage and maintenance costs of the machinery.

To properly calculate the TCO of new CNC equipment, it is necessary to add “hidden” costs that are often overlooked, such as the training of your support staff and technicians. Fortunately, this “expense” can be transformed into a preventive investment by approaching experts who not only provide comprehensive solutions, but can also foresee future failures. 

Other expenses to consider are operating costs and electrical and cooling consumption, adjustments to your plant infrastructure, production downtime (planned or unplanned) and possible incidents such as defective parts.

CNC Financing

In addition, let’s remember that the basic principle for the realistic calculation of the cost of ownership of a CNC equipment is based on the sum of those expenses necessary to guarantee its correct operation during the useful life of the machinery. This measure considers both one-time payment values and those expenses recurring with production, such as consumables, tooling, energy and even land use per square meter in relation to its final production.

With all these expenses in mind, having a reliable maintenance service provider with high quality standards becomes a necessity, that is, a key player to have success and profitability in your projects. Do not hesitate to contact our support team, we have at your disposal plans of service hours with no expiration date and great versatility.

Following the 2020 pandemic, the nearshoring boom and the growing wave of manufacturing in Mexico, the metal-mechanic industry in Mexico has received large investments from abroad; an example of this was the sustained growth that began since 2021 with an investment of US$4.8 million, which represented a growth of 36.1 % over the previous year.

Likewise, according to data from INEGI’s “Directorio En México Estadístico Nacional de Unidades Económicas” (Directory In Mexico National Statistical Directory of Economic Units or DENUE), in 2023 there were 2,800 companies dedicated to the manufacture of parts for machinery and equipment, as well as almost 10 thousand manufacturers of metal parts and screws, which undoubtedly require skilled labor in the operation of machinery such as lathes, milling machines and CNC Machining Centers.

This panorama leads us to a clear conclusion: the need to keep our human talent trained and in constant professional growth, not only to retain manpower, but also to favor a work environment where each employee can find his or her maximum potential. In response to this is that our Engineering department offers specialized courses for CNC operation and programming, some of them are:

• Operation and programming from basic to advanced level for Machining Centers, Lathes and Grinding Machines.

• Okuma’s Advanced One Touch-Interactive Graphics Function (AOT-IGT) interactive programming.

• Programming and calibration of measuring systems

• Bar feeder programming and alignment

• Pivot calibration on 5-axis machines

• (3+1) / (3+2) axis operation and programming

• Best practices workshop for CNC equipment

CNC FOR YOU

Do not hesitate to contact our engineers to provide you with the training or course best suited to your needs.

Okuma has stated that among its energy goals for 2050 is to achieve carbon neutrality for all its plants and to offer its customers an accurate and consistent machining process with less energy consumption. You too can achieve new green goals and savings in energy and accessories through Okuma’s green technology.

THREE LEADING POINTS FOR OKUMA’S GREEN TECHNOLOGY

1.  Reduce energy during machining.
2.  Stopping unnecessary equipment proactively.
3. Shortening cycle times.

Machine tools not only consume energy during use, but also during set-up and standby times. Through unique innovations, Okuma has succeeded in significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions during production. In addition, machining accuracy is not affected, and lower energy consumption and shorter cycle times contribute to increased productivity.

OKUMA ECO SUITE PLUS SYSTEM

With the OSP control developed by Okuma, the operating status and carbon dioxide emissions can be recorded and analyzed with pinpoint accuracy. The accompanying visualization and integrated energy-saving functions support the energy reduction.

A large part of the energy consumption is accounted by all the additional devices of a machine tool. Thanks to ECO Suite Plus, the machine automatically detects the operating status of all components of the machine and puts them into an energy-saving idling mode according to need.

With the ECO Suite Plus, other peripheral devices, such as chip conveyors or extractors, can also be optionally adapted to the operation. Operation can be fine-tuned even more, as many carbon dioxide emissions as possible are reduced and energy consumption is lowered.

The highly efficient hydraulic unit significantly reduces power consumption. This means that, with a conventional hydraulic unit, the MB-4000H requires a power consumption of 840 W. With the optional ECO hydraulics, only 260 W are needed at 25 min-1.

Contact our specialized sales executives to find out how you too can achieve your green and savings goals for 2024.

In the highly competitive world of cnc manufacturing, efficiency and profitability are key elements for long-term success. Two terms that play a key role in this scenario are Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Return on Investment (ROI). Understanding the relationship between these two concepts is essential to making informed and strategic decisions in your cnc manufacturing projects.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is a complete evaluation of all costs associated with the acquisition, implementation and maintenance of a cnc manufacturing project. It is important to consider that the real value of a CNC equipment goes beyond its price, since this means only 15% of the TCO, while the remaining 85% comes from factors as diverse as consumable tools, maintenance, shutdowns and rejected parts, among others.

In other words, TCO goes beyond the initial purchase costs and includes aspects such as the cost of operation, upgrades and, eventually, expenses associated with the end of life of the machinery. It is for these reasons that it is vital to acquire equipment designed to complete and even exceed the average lifetimes of CNC equipment.

Return on Investment (ROI), on the other hand, measures the benefits obtained in relation to the cost of the initial investment. It is a crucial metric for evaluating the profitability of a project in cnc manufacturing. It is calculated by dividing the net benefits by the initial investment costs and is commonly expressed as a percentage. A positive ROI indicates that the investment has been profitable.rsión ha sido rentable.

Strategic interconnection

The relationship between TCO and ROI lies in the ability to optimize costs over the life cycle of a project while maximizing benefits. Here are some key considerations:

Initial investment vs. long-term savings

Making decisions based solely on the initial investment, i.e., the cost of the equipment, can be misleading, as cheaper equipment can be costly in terms of operation and maintenance. A balanced approach considers how the initial investment will impact operating costs over time and thus affect ROI. The solution is simple: consider the initial investment and operating expenses over the lifetime of the equipment, so it will be easier to visualize how higher structural integrity equipment will bring greater benefits and better savings.

Operational efficiency and maintenance

Investing in technologies and equipment that improve the operational efficiency of your project can reduce long-term operating costs. Adopting solutions that minimize downtime, facilitate predictive maintenance and extend equipment life can have a significant impact on TCO and ultimately ROI.

Adaptability to future projects

Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changes in the manufacturing sector are crucial. Investing in technologies and systems that can evolve with market needs and rapid technological innovations can protect the initial investment and improve long-term ROI. Remember, the relationship between TCO and ROI in manufacturing projects is a strategic trade-off. Optimizing costs over time and maximizing profits are essential to ensure your success in the world of cnc manufacturing.

Okuma equipment has a huge advantage, as it has an average record time of 90 months (7.5 years) between failures, which translates into great savings and security in your investment. Use Okuma’s digital tools and calculate the ROI of your operation here: https://www.okuma.com/roi-calculator

In cnc manufacturing, making informed decisions that consider both total costs and potential returns ensures a sound and sustainable investment in the dynamic environment of modern cnc manufacturing. At the end of the day, the path to profitability involves a thorough understanding of how each decision will affect both costs and benefits throughout the life cycle of your project.