5-Axis Machining Up to 20 Percent Reduced Cycle Times

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Biglia, a traditional company from Asti, specializes in CNC lathes and multifunctional turning centers. To make their own production even more efficient and competitive, they rely on solutions from Grob.

With an annual capacity of around 500 machines and an inventory of more than 17,000 units, the company, founded in 1958 by Carlo Biglia in the hills of Monferrato, faced the challenge of rethinking its approach to the manufacturing of small parts.

As early as 1986, Biglia had commissioned its first FMS system, thus focusing on automation early on. Today, however, the further development of production systems requires another technological leap. The existing system with 1000×800 pallets presented operational limitations: efficiency was constrained by the need for multiple clamping setups and long loading and unloading times—on average, twice as long as for larger components. These conditions led to the decision to introduce a new machining center with a robot cell to optimize production even for smaller components.

The choice fell on the G350a 5-axis universal machining center from Grob, equipped with a flexible clamping system that can securely handle both small and very heavy parts. Thanks to the slim spindle design and the large swivel range of the A-axis, the workpiece can be optimally machined from any angle. This allows for complex, multi-sided machining to be carried out without removing the workpiece from the clamping setup. The machine table is designed to effectively absorb cutting forces and ensure consistent stability—even when working with hard materials or complex geometries. Additionally, the system can be equipped with specialized clamping devices for individual applications.

After the integration of the new Grob machine, Biglia recorded an immediate increase in productivity, with cycle time reductions of up to 20 percent. Automation relieved operators from repetitive tasks and allowed their redeployment to other production steps, streamlining the overall workflow. In the long term, the gradual renewal of the old systems is intended to elevate the company to a new level of efficiency.

But the partnership between Grob and Biglia goes far beyond the mere delivery of machines. "As in any company, it is ultimately the people who make the difference—and at Grob Italy, we have experienced exceptional customer orientation throughout the entire collaboration," explains Edoardo Biglia, Head of Production Planning in the family business.

Even during the sales phase, we were impressed by how quickly our inquiries were addressed. In the after-sales area, we particularly value the efficient remote support as well as the spare parts supply, which is always completed within 24 hours. Grob's expertise, their quick and competent problem-solving, and the excellent relationship we were able to build make them a manufacturer we definitely want to involve in future projects.

Edoardo Biglia, Head of Production Planning, Biglia

Through its Italian subsidiary in Pianezza near Turin, Grob will continue to accompany Biglia on its growth path. With a portfolio ranging from individual machines to complete production lines, Grob supports the company in process optimization and offers tailored, scalable solutions for sustainable development—always precisely aligned with Biglia's real production needs.

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