French machinery manufacturer
S3DEL has developed a new high‑performance five‑axis micro machine using automation technology supplied by
Inovance. The system delivers the same level of capability found in heavy‑industry machining centres, yet weighs just 120kg thanks to the integration of compact servo drives, motors and associated control components from the global automation specialist.
S3DEL supplies custom micro‑machining platforms to sectors including jewellery production and dentistry, with each machine tailored to application‑specific requirements. The company sought a technology partner able to reduce the overall footprint and weight of its equipment without compromising performance. Inovance was selected for this project due to the strength of its technical support team in France and the compact nature of its motion‑control products, which offer high‑speed, high‑precision control in a reduced form factor. Communication and ISO code interface capability also played a key role in the decision.
The micro machine incorporates Inovance’s PA9000 ultra‑compact EtherCAT CNC controller, designed for real five‑axis machining with RTCP functionality. It also features the SV660N servo drive, the MS1 servo motor with high dynamic response, and the MD200 compact AC open‑loop drive, along with supporting I/O modules, line filters and several peripheral components. By integrating these technologies, S3DEL has been able to significantly reduce the size of the machine while maintaining full functionality.
The new model is substantially smaller and lighter than previous versions and operates on a 220V supply instead of 440V. This reduction in size, mass and energy requirement makes the machine easier to move, transport and install. In addition to cost efficiencies, the redesigned system delivers a lower carbon footprint. S3DEL notes that the project had an ambitious schedule, and that close collaboration with Inovance’s engineers was critical to meeting installation and commissioning deadlines.
Damien Chambrey, managing director, S3DEL, said: “The collaboration with the engineering team at Inovance was a major factor in the success of the project. Each person involved put in 200% effort. We are pleased with the outcome, and we will definitely consider working with Inovance on future projects.”
Cedric Pujols, country manager, Inovance Technology France, added: “We thoroughly enjoyed working with S3DEL on this exciting project. We were impressed that the company takes more than just the bottom line into account — they have a major commitment to also cutting carbon emissions. We very much hope to continue working with S3DEL in the future.”
The project reinforces S3DEL’s reputation in the micro‑machinery sector and demonstrates the potential of compact, high‑integration automation technology to enhance machine performance while delivering efficiency and sustainability gains.