Biglia reaps the benefits of strategic partnership with Grob

The Grob G350a is equipped with a flexible clamping system that gives Biglia a new level of flexibility in production

Strategic partnerships continue to play a pivotal role in boosting supply chain efficiency and sharpening manufacturing competitiveness. A case in point is Biglia, the Italian specialist in CNC lathes and multi-functional turning centres, which has turned to Grob’s advanced machining solutions to modernise its production of small parts.

With over 17,000 machines in operation and an annual output of around 500 units, Biglia has long prioritised automation — its first FMS system dates back to 1986. But the demands of modern manufacturing called for a new leap forward. The company’s legacy system, limited by 1,000 x 800 pallets, struggled with long loading times and multiple clamping operations, particularly for smaller components.

To overcome these constraints, Biglia selected Grob’s G350a five-axis universal machining centre, equipped with a flexible clamping system and a slim spindle design that enables multi-sided machining without re-clamping. The machine’s robust table ensures stability even with complex geometries and hard materials, while its automation-ready configuration allows for seamless integration with robotic cells.

The result — cycle times cut by up to 20%, operators freed from repetitive tasks, and a more streamlined workflow. But the collaboration goes beyond hardware. Edoardo Biglia, head of production planning, praised Grob Italy’s responsiveness and after-sales support, highlighting 24hr spare parts delivery and efficient remote assistance.

With Grob’s continued support through its Pianezza-based subsidiary, Biglia is set to further enhance its production capabilities, combining scalable automation with tailored solutions that align with its long-term growth strategy.