At GTR Manufacturing, we continuously invest in technology that strengthens our ability to deliver across all our capabilities. In our CNC machining department, recent additions include a state-of-the-art CNC lathe and a next-generation Mazak mill.
Some customers may be impressed by the machines but wonder how, specifically, they will affect their projects. That’s why we’re sharing some “before and after” project examples to show the concrete benefits. Learn how these upgrades to our CNC milling and turning services expand our capacity while allowing us to serve customers with greater precision and faster turnaround.
Our New Lathe: Faster, More Accurate Parts in Fewer Setups
Our new Mazak Quick-Turn 200 MSY Turning Center is equipped with live tooling, which allows the cutting tool to rotate as well as the workpiece. This enables us to complete operations that would otherwise require multiple machines, such as drilling off-center holes.
Reducing the number of machine transfers has two major advantages. First, it saves time on your project by eliminating setup and handling between machines. Second, it increases accuracy, since each transfer introduces the potential for variation. With this investment, we can now deliver high-quality complex parts in fewer setups.
The lathe also features a bar feeder, automating the process of loading and advancing material. Operators can run parts unattended for extended periods, focusing on other important tasks in the shop. That boosts both productivity and efficiency, leading to stable lead times and more capacity for our customers.
“Before and After” Example: In the past, one of our repeat jobs required three separate operations, with two on the lathe and one in the mill. With our new machine’s sub-spindle and live tooling, all of those steps can now be completed in a single setup, resulting in faster turnaround for the customer.
Expanded Milling Capabilities: Larger Parts, Greater Precision
We also added a Mazak VCEZ 20 Milling Center from the model’s latest generation. Beyond its cutting performance, this machine stands out for its easy-to-use programming interface. The intuitive system allows operators to create programs quickly, reducing production time without sacrificing accuracy.
“Before and After” Example: One key advantage of our new machine is the large work envelope. With a 50” x 30” capacity, we can now accommodate larger parts that previously exceeded our capabilities. Customers who previously outsourced oversized jobs can now keep that work with GTR, simplifying logistics with a single-source solution.
Investing in Cost-Effective Machining for Simple Parts
Our new ProtoTRAK DPM RX2 fills an important gap in our machine shop by efficiently handling relatively straightforward jobs. The machine offers significant advantages over manual Bridgeports, while avoiding the unnecessary costs of running simple parts on high-end machines.
This purchase is a reflection of our customer-focused approach to investment. By matching the right machine to the right job, we boost efficiency without overinvesting. That helps keep costs stable for our customers and preserves capacity for their complex parts on our more advanced machines.
“Before and After” Example: For some basic parts, we previously relied on a Bridgeport as the most cost-effective option for our customers. It was a functional solution, but it couldn’t compete with the productivity of precision CNC machining services. The ProtoTRAK now allows us to handle these parts far more quickly.
Growing Capacity Into the Future
GTR has grown into a three-facility, 100,000+ square-foot metal fabrication company by continually reinvesting in technology and people. But we’re not stopping here. We’ll continue expanding and upgrading to deliver more value in machining, metal fabrication services, and beyond.
Request a quote today to see how our new machines can benefit your project!