Starrag recently showcased its latest technological innovations at the Technology Days event held in Chemnitz, highlighting the future of metalworking with a focus on high precision, automation, and digital technology. During the event, Starrag unveiled several new developments, including the Heckert H100 compact machining centre and a sneak preview of a new series of large machines.
In addition to these new products, attendees had the opportunity to explore Starrag’s newly designed production hall, where highly automated processes are used to produce precision-critical components for Starrag Tornos Group machines.
The event, which drew over 200 attendees from more than 100 customer companies across eight countries, offered a detailed look at the company’s optimised manufacturing processes. Starrag collaborated closely with several peripheral suppliers, including Blum Novotest, Fanuc, Fastems, Gefertec, Haimer, HandlingTech, Pimpel, and Siemens, to present four key topics.
1. Heckert H100 Compact Machining Centre: ‘Small Dimensions – Big Impact’
The first topic introduced the new Heckert H100 four-axis machining centre, completing the upper range of the current Heckert compact series. A live demonstration showed the machine’s ability to efficiently handle large parts, such as the V8 and V12 engines used by Czech vehicle manufacturer Tatra Trucks. Starrag’s application technologist, Rico Ullrich, explained that using a compact machine for such large components significantly reduces costs, from machine investment and transport to installation space and machining processes. Starrag also provided process design and developed four devices in close collaboration with the customer.
2. Metal 3D Printing and Five-Axis Finish Machining: ‘The Symbiosis of New and Traditional Technologies’
The second topic highlighted the future potential of combining metal 3D printing and five-axis finish machining. Starrag demonstrated this concept with the Gefertec arc80X and the Heckert X50 machine, which features a turning function. Kai Bohle, director of sales at the Chemnitz site, explained that generative processes in complex components can save over 70% of raw material, reducing the need for finishing work. This leads to higher-quality parts being produced in less time compared to conventional methods, even though this approach remains niche for now.
3. New Large Machine Series: ‘Innovation Meets Tradition’
The third topic introduced a sneak preview of a new generation of large machines set to replace the popular Heckert Large series. The new machines retain the tested kinematics, allowing users to use existing fixtures and NC programs. Product manager Carsten Bergmann discussed the redesign of key components, such as the bed and columns, and improvements to thermal symmetry and chip disposal. These changes, along with stronger structural components and ball screws, enable the new machines to handle higher cutting values, reducing machining times and decreasing the machine’s footprint by about 20%.
These new large machines will be available in a modular system with four predefined sizes. Two models will be launched in 2025, with the remaining two models expected by 2026 and 2027. A new matrix magazine for tool storage, capable of holding up to 828 tools, has already been presented.
4. Self-Made Precision: ‘A Focus on In-House Manufacturing’
The fourth topic emphasized Starrag’s goal to manufacture all precision-critical components in-house. This is being achieved through the expansion of the Chemnitz production site. Key to this expansion are three Heckert HEC 800 X5 machines, equipped with a turning function and the Heckert High-Precision Package. These machines, which operate fully automated in small and medium series, are used to produce critical parts such as pallets, faceplates, bearing blocks, and gearbox housings. Automation is further supported by a Fastems linear storage system that accommodates up to 64 pallets and includes two set-up stations.
Although the focus of the Technology Days event was on advanced machining processes, Starrag also demonstrated the importance of precision in manufacturing. Using pallet machining as an example, Starrag technologist Jan Wilske showed how single-digit micron tolerances are maintained across various batch sizes, ensuring the precision of contact surfaces and positions.
The event concluded with a strong demonstration of Starrag’s commitment to precision, innovation, and automation, positioning the company as a leader in the evolving world of metalworking technology.
