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Starrag Group’s SIP division is currently assembling five high-precision jig boring machines for customers active in the aerospace industry.

The five machines – one four-axis horizontal model with the remainder three- and five-axis vertical designs – are scheduled for installation during the second half of 2021.

After installation, the customers will use these SIP machines to produce a range of different workpieces from gearboxes to structural components and satellite guidance systems. Starrag says its customers chose these machines because of SIP’s reputation for high-precision, right-first-time results with no material wastage – even after resetting to suit different workpieces.

The machines are based on a closed rigid frame supported on three points, with a level of positioning repeatability accuracy the company quotes as reaching close to 1 micron under optimal conditions. Starrag also points out the role of hand-scraped features like machine bases, linear guideways and spindle heads in enhancing accuracy.

The quartet of vertical machines under construction will be able to accommodate workpieces weighing from 2,500 to 4,000 kg, and have clamping surfaces from 1,200 mm by 900 mm to 1,700 mm by 1,200 mm. The horizontal machine will handle components up to 4,000 kg on a clamping surface of 1,200 mm by 1,200 mm.

In all cases, the standard spindle rating is 6,000 revs/min, but SIP also produces optional 8,000 revs/min spindles. The vertical models all have automatic tool changers, and two have high-pressure through-coolant.

“SIP enjoys a worldwide reputation in ultra high-precision jig boring, not only in the niche markets of aerospace and aircraft industries, but also in the transportation and energy sectors in territories that include China, India, the USA and Europe,” says Adriano Della Vecchia, SIP’s sales manager.