Partline considers a Blockbuster sequel from Ward CNC

Managing director William Clarke says the investment in the Hartford machining centre was Partline's timely response to the downturn and has re-emphasised the company's focus on the production of high accuracy parts. "Like most other companies we've held back on capital investment over the past year or so," explains Mr Clarke, "but it was clear that the demand for precision parts has not gone away and we needed to install a machine that would 'reinstate' our production accuracies if we are to maintain our burgeoning success in new markets at home and abroad." The Hartford Blockbuster has X, Y and Z axes travels of 2,060 by 1,560 by 780 mm, and a table size of 2,100 by 1,450 mm with a distance between the columns of 1,680 mm, the machine also features a two-speed geared headstock that provides 6,000 rpm and 26 kW spindle motor power. The machining centre has a 40-station arm-type automatic toolchanger, geared head and Hartrol-Fanuc AI300 (18iMB) CNC system and, as standard, the machine features 25 bar through-spindle coolant, spindle oil cooler, Renishaw OMP60 probe and fourth-axis interface. The machine is being used by Partline to produce a variety of components of various sizes in a range of materials. Mr Clarke concludes: "so far we are very pleased with its performance. In addition, the level of service and back up provided by Ward CNC has been excellent – so much so that we are now looking to order another Blockbuster."