Case Study: Center Rock Inc. achieves rapid, life‑saving drill production and optimized machining setups with 3D Systems

How CENTER ROCK Sees Setups with MultiTask Machining with GibbsCAM

Center Rock Inc., a Pennsylvania maker of rock-drilling tools, was thrust into a life‑or‑death challenge when Chile asked for custom drill bits to rescue 33 trapped miners. The shop had to machine hard forged steel parts quickly despite difficult features (notably a very deep blind stem hole) and a typical process that involved multiple machine setups and subcontracting.

Center Rock met the challenge by optimizing where to multitask and where to use dedicated machines: a spectrum of turning centers (including a Doosan Puma with live tooling) handles parts to the most effective extent, while a purpose‑built deep‑hole process—using a Sandvik Coromant Corodrill, high‑pressure coolant and vacuum chip removal—cut cycle times and improved tool life and ID finish. The company produced and shipped completed drills in days, increased productive capacity, kept semi‑finished inventory for fast response, and reinforced its position as a custom, engineering‑driven supplier.

Center Rock Inc.

Brandon Fisher

President and Founder