Case Study: F. Zimmermann GmbH achieves high-precision aerospace milling with Hexagon machine tool measurement solutions

Portal milling machine flies with machine tool measurement

F. Zimmermann GmbH, a manufacturer of high-performance milling machines, was tasked by an aerospace industry customer to build a bespoke portal milling machine capable of manufacturing complex titanium aircraft parts. The challenge was to create a system that could not only handle milling operations but also perform high-precision, on-machine inspections. To meet these demands, Zimmermann partnered with vendor Hexagon to integrate a machine tool measurement solution for in-process and final quality control.

The solution implemented by Hexagon centered on its latest generation radio-wave touch probes and HxGN NC Server, which enabled the use of PC-DMIS metrology software directly on the milling machine. This allowed for automated in-process measurements to prevent scrap and ensure the part met tight tolerances, such as a required concentricity of less than 50 microns. The result was a turnkey, high-performing milling solution that provided a unified user experience for operators and delivered a proven measurement system to a highly satisfied customer.

F. Zimmermann GmbH

Steffen Nüssle

Sales Director Export