Rochdale-based Holroyd Precision (www.holroyd.com) has sold a special version of its Zenith 400 helical profile grinding machine to German pump manufacturer Netzsch.

The machine will be installed in the latter’s manufacturing facility in Brazil and will be used to produce a range of pump screws.

Holroyd sales director Steven Benn said: “We are delighted that Netzsch has recognised the high-precision capabilities of the Zenith 400. The flexibility that the machine brings to production strategies was also a major factor in the company deciding to place this high-value order with us.”

In standard form, the Zenith 400 is the first machine of its kind to offer all three grinding technologies: aluminium oxide, ultra-hard-plated CBN and vitrified dressable CBN — effectively providing roughing and finishing capabilities on one machine.

Holroyd has also developed a process whereby ultra-hard-plated CBN can be used for rough grinding, after which a vitrified CBN finishing wheel can be used on the same arbor for finish-grinding.

Mr Benn added: “The vitrified CBN enables us to change the shape of the wheel, and to redress the wheel in light of any wear.”

By choosing the Zenith 400, Netzsch will benefit from Holroyd’s 3-D CMM component-scanning probe with fully automatic compensation feedback.

Offering class-leading accuracy and improved production rates, this scanning technology removes any need for off-machine component inspection.

Instead, parts can be accurately ground and then measured, with any deviations being automatically corrected before completion of the manufacturing cycle.