GF Mikron X600u 5-Axis high-speed machine with an iTNC 530 control
Operator programming on a HEIDENHAIN TNC 640
Rennscot team in front of a System 3R automation cell. The cell is connected to two GROB G350 5-axis machining centers with HEIDENHAIN TNC 640 controls.
High-performance manufacturing requires precision and adaptability-qualities that have fueled the success of Rennscot MFG, a Massachusetts-based company founded in 2017 with a passion for motorsports. Since then, Rennscot has grown rapidly, expanding into aerospace, defense and electronics. Embracing the latest advancements in multi-axis machining and additive manufacturing, Rennscot's facility is equipped with cutting-edge machinery to tackle the increasing complexity of client demands. A vital part of this evolution has been the integration of HEIDENHAIN's TNC controls, empowering Rennscot's team to approach new challenges with confidence.
Recently, a HEIDENHAIN representative sat down with employees at Rennscot to discuss their journey in 5-axis machining and how HEIDENHAIN's TNC controls have helped them scale operations effectively. Here is a look at that conversation and how these controls have optimized Rennscot's capabilities.
Beginnings and Expansion: Rennscot's Path to Multi-Axis Excellence
Originally launched as a motorsports-focused shop, Rennscot MFG quickly found success and diversified to serve multiple industries. With growth came the need for advanced machining solutions, and in 2019, Rennscot took a bold step into multi-axis machining-a decision driven by its commitment to efficiency and reliability.
"Multi-axis machining was something we knew would be a critical part of our company from the beginning," said a Rennscot spokesperson. "It allows us to reduce machine operations and improve process reliability, both of which are essential for meeting customer expectations."
Going High-End: Investing in Advanced 5-Axis Machinery
Rennscot's journey with multi-axis machining began with a cost-effective machine. While capable, it required frequent operator intervention to maintain uptime and accuracy. Recognizing the limitations of entry-level equipment, they later invested in high-end machines like the GROB G350 and the GF Mikron Mill X600u, both equipped with HEIDENHAIN's TNC 530 controls.
David Bamforth, President and CEO of Rennscot, noted, "Higher-end machines eliminate many of the variables entry-level equipment struggles with, allowing our team to focus on their core competencies."
Why HEIDENHAIN?
"For us, the decision to standardize on HEIDENHAIN controls was driven by HEIDENHAIN's reputation as an industry leader in 5-axis control technology," said the spokesperson. "After experiencing the intuitive interface and advanced capabilities of the TNC 640, the team realized HEIDENHAIN was the right fit for their multi-axis needs."
Bamforth said: "With five HEIDENHAIN-controlled machines in the shop and a sixth on the way, we have seen significant benefits in training ease and the standardization of workflows between machines from different builders."
This consistency has allowed Rennscot to implement an automated cell in early 2023, using HEIDENHAIN's TNC 640-controlled GROB G350s to meet increasing order demands.
A Close Look at the Benefits
HEIDENHAIN's TNC 640 control system offers many features that simplify complex machining operations, making it a favorite among Rennscot's engineers.
Ethan B., a Manufacturing Engineer, appreciates how seamlessly integrated everything is with the TNC control, especially compared to other systems. "Other companies' controls have macros that do not feel as integrated, but everything plays nicely with HEIDENHAIN," he said.
This level of integration provides practical benefits in day-to-day operations, allowing engineers like Ethan to move programs between machines with minimal reprogramming.
David G., another Manufacturing Engineer, highlighted the exceptional "smoothness" of the GF Mikron Mill X600U, which he attributes to HEIDENHAIN's look-ahead TNC feature that seamlessly handles large, unfiltered toolpaths.
In addition, the TNC 640's specialized tools, like the built-in oscilloscope, allow engineers to find and avoid resonant spindle frequencies, which is critical for achieving the desired surface finishes on complex parts.
Tackling the Toughest Jobs with HEIDENHAIN's TNC 640
HEIDENHAIN's TNC 640 shines when tackling challenging 5-axis projects. The team at Rennscot values the ease of programming for set-up operations and probing routines, which minimizes downtime and enhances operational efficiency.
"Spatial angles in the preset table are very powerful," shared Ethan B., who noted that this feature, along with the tool table and auto-break change, helps ensure successful unattended runs. Ethan added that the TNC 640 allows him to focus on running code smoothly without worrying about the control's capabilities.
A Platform for Learning and Growth
Transitioning to the TNC 640 from other systems was a relatively quick and painless process for Rennscot's operators. According to Ethan B., it took only about a week to become proficient with the TNC 640 due to its intuitive design. The learning curve was steep but manageable, with team members citing the organized tool and preset tables as factors that made the transition straightforward.
As Rennscot continues to grow, they plan to leverage more HEIDENHAIN resources, including the TNC Club Premium membership they recently obtained. The team sees this as a valuable way to deepen their knowledge and unlock additional benefits of HEIDENHAIN controls.
From improved process reliability to streamlined operations, HEIDENHAIN's TNC controls have helped Rennscot MFG scale their operations and tackle some of the most demanding jobs in the industry. With HEIDENHAIN, Rennscot has found a partner that not only delivers precision, but also aligns with their goals of innovation and growth.
"For companies like Rennscot that are committed to staying ahead in manufacturing, the decision to invest in HEIDENHAIN's TNC controls is more than just a technical choice-it is a strategic advantage," said a HEIDENHAIN spokesperson. "With HEIDENHAIN, they have the tools they need to meet the demands of today's competitive market and continue their mission to deliver high-quality manufacturing solutions."
For more information contact:
Rennscot MFG
20 Sonar Drive
Woburn, MA 01801
mfg@rennscotmfg.com
www.rennscotmfg.com
HEIDENHAIN Corporation
333 E State Parkway
Schaumburg, IL 60173-5337
847-490-1191
www.heidenhain.us