Bradford-based Bronte Precision Engineering has significantly enhanced its machining capabilities with the acquisition of a new DN Solutions Mynx 6500/50 II vertical machining centre.
The Mynx 6500/50 II, supplied by Mills CNC, replaces a 20-year-old Daewoo Mynx 540 and brings substantial improvements in productivity and machining efficiency. Equipped with a powerful gearbox-driven BT 50 spindle, advanced Fanuc 0iMP control, and a 30-tool automatic changer, the new machine enables Bronte to handle larger, more complex components with greater speed and precision. Early results show part processing times have improved by up to 50%, particularly for demanding subsea valve components made from challenging materials such as Inconel.
This upgrade follows Bronte’s acquisition by B&B Engineering Ltd. in November 2024. B&B, based in Huddersfield, is renowned for its high-quality CNC machining and HVOF coating services. The acquisition, led by director Steven Haigh, was driven by the strategic goal of leveraging synergies between the two companies to expand capacity, enhance flexibility, and deliver greater value to customers.
Immediately after the acquisition, a comprehensive audit of Bronte’s operations identified the aging Mynx 540 as a bottleneck. Its limited spindle power and outdated technology were constraining productivity, especially when machining hard materials. The decision to invest in the Mynx 6500/50 II was based on a rigorous evaluation of technical requirements, including machine rigidity, spindle power, worktable capacity, tool changer size, in-process measurement systems, and advanced control features.
The new machine’s robust box guideway construction, high-torque spindle (30kW/6000rpm/617N-m), and through-spindle coolant capability have enabled Bronte to optimize machining parameters, reduce cycle times, and improve surface finishes. The addition of Renishaw probing systems further enhances in-process inspection and quality control.
Steven Haigh commented, ““The Mynx 6500/50 II is a powerful, accurate and flexible machining centre that, in just a few short weeks, has proved its worth.
“The machine’s rigidity, box guideway construction and powerful BT 50 spindle with through-spindle-coolant capability has enabled us to significantly improve our productivity and process efficiencies, and the ability to ramp up speeds and feeds and take more aggressive depths of cut have dramatically improved part cycle times.
“The machine is still being ‘bedded-in’, so to speak, but I am confident that once we are more familiar with all of its onboard technologies, we will be able to hit repeatable accuracies of +/- 0.05mm down to +/- 0.03mm on selected features.”
This investment underscores Bronte Precision Engineering’s commitment to continuous improvement and strategic growth. By upgrading to advanced manufacturing technology and integrating resources with B&B Engineering, the company is well-positioned to take on higher-value projects and deliver superior service to both new and existing clients.