DRIVING INNOVATION IN PRECISION MACHINING

Innovation in precision machining has always been about balancing uncompromising accuracy and high productivity. During MMI’s recent visit to Huron Graffenstaden’s facility in Strasbourg, France, we saw how the company has mastered this balance through machines like the MX 12MT Mill-Turn center, while also preparing for the future with forward-looking concepts such as Industry 5.0.

Founded in 1857, Huron carries a legacy of excellence in 5-axis and high-end milling technologies. Today, as part of the Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd, Huron continues to build on its reputation by blending European engineering tradition with Indian agility and scale. This synergy has enabled the company to serve industries as demanding as aerospace, defence, energy, and high-tech manufacturing.

The Power of the MX 12MT

The centerpiece of our visit was the MX 12MT, a gigantic 5-axis Mill-Turn machining center designed to perform both milling and turning in one setup. It features a swiveling torque-motor head, a Ø1400 mm rotary table, and a machining volume of Ø1600 × 1120 mm, capable of handling loads up to 4000 kg. Its clamping torque reaches 12,000 Nm, while a maximum working torque of 8570 Nm ensures robust performance even for the heaviest parts.

With a twin-pallet system and a high-capacity automatic tool changer, the MX 12MT is designed for uninterrupted productivity, enabling roughing, finishing, and complex geometries to be handled seamlessly in one cycle. As Marc Troïa, Director General, Huron Graffenstaden, explained, “Our customers are in highly demanding sectors— aerospace, space, defence, high-tech—where every process is governed by strict norms and long lifecycles. One of our biggest strengths is machine longevity. A Huron machine can last 20–25 years, which means customers don’t have to restart costly certification processes again and again.”

Synergy with Jyoti CNC

Huron’s growth and global reach today cannot be separated from its partnership with Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd, which acquired the French company in 2007. This partnership brought together Huron’s heritage of high-end milling expertise with Jyoti’s vision, innovation, and capacity.

“We are working with a company that not only produces machines but understands our needs and delivers them economically in a very competitive global market,” Troïa said.

The collaboration allows the group to cater to a broad spectrum of industries— from entry-level machining for small parts in watches and electronics, to massive multifunctional machines like the MX 12MT for aerospace and energy applications.

Competing Through Accuracy

Huron’s strategy at EMO, the world’s premier machine tool show, is not simply about showcasing products, but demonstrating a higher standard of accuracy.

“We speak of extra accuracy,” Troïa emphasized. “It’s not just good accuracy—it’s accuracy below 0.01 mm even on a 10 cubic metre workpiece. This is possible only because of the stability of our machines and advanced software compensation systems.”

The combination of rigid mechanical design and digital enhancements gives Huron an edge in industries where there is no tolerance for error.

Customer-Centric Approach

Beyond machine performance, Huron has invested heavily in services that add value to customers’ operations. This includes predictive maintenance powered by AI, programming support, application consulting, and operator training. Troïa highlighted that the company’s goal is to ensure customers maximize returns throughout the machine’s lifecycle.

“It’s not just about selling machines. It’s about helping customers get the most out of them for 20 years and more,” he added.

Preparing for Industry 5.0

While many manufacturers are still adapting to Industry 4.0, which standardized machine connectivity and real-time monitoring, Huron is already preparing for Industry 5.0.

“The next stage is human–machine collaboration,” Troïa explained. “It’s not only about informing operators, but enabling clever decisions where production choices are shared between people and machines. Customers are already asking us for this.”

This vision highlights a future where automation and human expertise complement each other to achieve efficiency, adaptability, and resilience.

The Lifecycle of a Huron Machine

Watching the MX 12MT on the shop floor, Troïa described the rigorous journey each machine takes before it reaches the customer.

“Once assembly is complete, the customer inspects the machine for geometry, cutting capacity, performance, and noise. After approval, the machine is dismantled, boxed, shipped, and reassembled on-site. Geometry is rechecked, operators are trained, and the warranty begins. From there, the machine serves its customer for the next two decades.”

This meticulous process reflects Huron’s reputation for quality and reliability. The MX line, in particular, has been built for versatility—capable of handling horizontal, vertical, and intermediate positions with ease. This makes it ideal for cylindrical aerospace engine parts and other complex, high-value components.

The Future of Precision Machining

Huron’s journey demonstrates how tradition and innovation can coexist. Its machines, engineered for longevity and reliability, remain highly relevant in industries where failure is not an option. At the same time, its embrace of digital technologies, predictive maintenance, and Industry 5.0 concepts ensure that the company is not only keeping pace with change but shaping it.

For Huron and Jyoti CNC, innovation is not about isolated breakthroughs. It is about creating a sustainable ecosystem where machines, software, and human expertise work together to deliver precision, productivity, and resilience for the industries of tomorrow.

MURALI SUNDARAM Senior Correspondent Magic Wand Media Inc murali.sundaram@magicwandmedia.in

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