Rapid CNC Services Ltd, based in Stockton-on-Tees, a provider of a comprehensive range of precision machining services, is targeting advanced five-axis machining projects with the support of
Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd, Worcester. Founded by Rafal Grzenkowicz and Krzysztof Czerniawski, who collectively have over 50 years of experience in CNC machining—including milling, turning, programming, and inspection, Rapid CNC is ideally positioned to deliver cutting-edge manufacturing solutions.
The company operates from a modern facility on the Primrose Hill Industrial Estate, where it has recently installed its first machine — a Mazak CV5-500 simultaneous five-axis machining centre. Mr Grzenkowicz said: “We are an ambitious start-up with big plans to offer fast and efficient sub-contract manufacturing services using the best technology available. Our focus is on challenging projects that demand creativity and advanced programming skills.
“Both Krzysztof and I have long considered starting our own business. We firmly believe that success will come from running an efficient, competitive business underpinned by ‘state of the art’ five-axis technology.”
Initially, when selecting a machine, the team explored a range of suppliers. Mr Grzenkowicz explained: However, we now know that choosing to partner with Mazak was an excellent strategic decision. Mazak is a highly respected manufacturer of CNC machines, and our collaboration has so far been exceptional. The entire team at Mazak, including Mark Ireland, our dedicated sales representative, have been incredibly supportive and reliable.
Five-axis machiningIf needed, the machine tool supplier’s service team is available within 24hr, providing us with the confidence that any issues will be swiftly addressed, minimising potential downtime and ensuring uninterrupted operations. The strategic move to five-axis machining was driven by their past experiences with lower-specification machines.
Mr Grzenkowicz continued: “For the complex, high-value projects we are aiming to attract, 3-axis machines require too many operations and consume too much time. Simultaneous five-axis machining can reduce machining times by up to 40% and allows us to take on a wider range of jobs, many of which can be completed in a single set up. We have already found that the machine’s Smooth Technology CNC is incredibly efficient for high-speed milling.”
The Mazak CV5-500, designed and manufactured in the UK, is a simultaneous five-axis machine ideal for sub-contract manufacturers transitioning to more complex machining work. Rapid CNC’s model, equipped with Renishaw probing, was delivered just four weeks after the order and integrated seamlessly with the company‘s Fusion 360 design and 3-D modelling software.
Mr Grzenkowicz concluded: “We considered other five-axis options, including 3+2 machines, but the CV5-500 stood out. We saw the machine being assembled in the Worcester facility and experienced the company’s excellent support through the buying process. In addition, the finance and training packages, as well as three days of on-site installation and commissioning support, were invaluable.”