Swiss quality

The reason Exakt Fijnmechanika chose Tornos has everything to do with the quality and accuracy of the machines. In long turning, it is essential that the process runs stably to ensure high precision and repeatability. “At the time, Tornos was one of the few machine builders that could meet our requirements. The Micro 7 was perfect for our starting material with a diameter of 0.16 in. (4 mm) and was developed in collaboration with leaders in the watchmaking industry,” Douma explained. “Given the similar demands for precision manufacturing, we were simply charmed by Swiss precision, making Tornos the logical choice.”

Pushing the boundaries

Today, Exakt Fijnmechanika still produces cannulas in large quantities, but other long-turning projects have been added over the past decade. For the medical industry, the company also manufacture small parts for insulin pumps and sharp needles with a radius of less than 5 micrometers. For the defense industry, Exakt Fijnmechanika produces components with very low Rz values used in night vision goggles. “These are just a few examples,” said Douma, showcasing a wide range of precision mechanical turned parts. “We specialize in high-tech turning. When you are pushing the boundaries of what is feasible, you have to be willing to make mistakes. That’s the only way to progress.”

Because Exakt Fijnmechanika produces large series ranging from 1,000 to a million pieces, all Tornos long-turning machines are equipped with LNS Tryton bar feeders. According to Douma, this bar loader is ideal for automated production of small-diameter workpieces. “Even with small diameters, there are no vibrations, which allows us to produce all night long with process reliability,” he said.

While Tornos machines are known for their thermal stability, Exakt Fijnmechanika leaves nothing to chance. Seven employees dedicated solely to quality control are proof of that commitment. To ensure maximum process reliability, all long-turning machines are housed in a temperature-controlled room. “At a constant temperature, there’s no need for compensation, which greatly enhances process stability,” Douma said. Furthermore, Gibas has equipped several machines with a paper belt filter to maintain optimal cutting oil quality, preventing small chips from damaging the tool or workpiece. “All in all, we are extremely satisfied with Tornos’ long-turning machines and the support from Gibas. We still have some space available in our long turning department, and we will undoubtedly fill it with more Tornos machines,” Douma said.