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HB Bearings Stays Loyal with Fourth Vista CNC Grinder Purchase
HB Bearings Ltd., a leading designer and manufacturer of specialized bearings based in Huddersfield, has continued to expand its capabilities by acquiring another advanced Kellenberger VISTA universal grinding machine from Jones & Shipman Hardinge. Known for their expertise in producing high-precision, low-volume components tailored to specific industries, HB Bearings serves a global client base with an extensive archive of bearing designs and technical data that remains unrivaled in Europe.
With nearly five decades of operation, the company prides itself on its exceptional workforce and unwavering commitment to quality. This latest acquisition marks their fourth CNC grinding machine from Kellenberger, reinforcing their dedication to investing in cutting-edge technology. "Our success hinges not only on our skilled team but also on our willingness to embrace the best machinery available," said Managing Director Graham Hirst. "This new VISTA SE is a testament to our ongoing strategy of upgrading our facilities."
Looking ahead, HB Bearings is preparing for further expansion following the recent acquisition of Gamet Bearings, renowned for manufacturing ultra-precise tapered roller bearings. Plans are underway to relocate Gamet's operations to Huddersfield, necessitating additional investments in precision grinding equipment. Given the stringent 1.5-micron tolerance requirements for Gamet products, the company anticipates purchasing more VISTA CNC machines, confident in their reliability and performance.
In their Huddersfield facility, HB Bearings currently operates three existing VISTA UR 75/1000 CNC machines alongside the newly acquired VISTA SE. All these machines were sourced from Jones & Shipman Hardinge, the UK arm of Hardinge Inc. Designed on the robust foundation of the UR/75 model, the VISTA SE boasts enhanced guarding and an upgraded control package. It features a UR wheelhead capable of external, internal, and face grinding, along with a swiveling headstock equipped with pre-stressed, high-precision spindle bearings for optimal surface finish and longevity. The machine supports both chucking and grinding between centers, showcasing its innovative engineering.
To enhance efficiency, HB Bearings has also opted for a HF-dresser mounted on the upper x-axis table. The VISTA series offers a cost-effective CNC alternative to traditional hydraulic grinders, simplifying programming through the intuitive Kellenberger Kel-Easy and Kel-Iso menu-driven systems powered by a Fanuc 0i controller.
The compact yet powerful design includes several key features: micro-adjustable tailstock within ±60µm, linear guides on the X-axis, a conventional slide mechanism in the Z-axis, and the ability to handle workpieces weighing up to 100 kg. With a center distance of 1000 mm and a corresponding grinding length, the machine ensures precise operation. Its thermally optimized bearings maintain exceptional roundness and dimensional accuracy, while the separate coolant tray and integrated transport system contribute to operational convenience.
Graham Hirst highlighted the strategic decision behind acquiring the VISTA SE, citing the need to manage growing demand efficiently. "These machines are built to last and deliver consistent accuracy, which is critical in our line of work. While 5-micron tolerances are standard, we can achieve even tighter specifications when required. The VISTA machines excel at processing intricate, high-precision profiles with remarkable repeatability."
The materials processed typically include SAE 52100 steel, though specialized applications like motorsports might call for premium grades such as AMS6444 (52100 VIM-VAR), known for its superior cleanliness. On rare occasions, materials like Cronidur—up to ten times stronger than 52100—are utilized. Despite their challenging nature, these materials present no obstacle to the Kellenberger machines, which consistently deliver the desired results. "These investments have paid off handsomely," concluded Hirst, underscoring the company's confidence in its future growth trajectory.