Simon Rood, director and general manager at Kent-based
RK International Machine Tools Ltd, has announced a new partnership with
Topking Technology Co Ltd, a ‘premier grinding machine manufacturer’ based in Taichung, Taiwan. He said this collaboration will see the introduction of Topking’s advanced cylindrical grinding solutions — specifically the space-saving X-25 CNC — to RK International’s extensive portfolio and the UK’s precision-engineering sector.
Mr Rood continued: “We are thrilled to formalise this relationship with Topking Technology. At RK International, we constantly scour the globe for machine tools that offer our customers a competitive edge. In the current manufacturing climate, where floor space is at a premium but the demand for sub-micron precision is higher than ever, Topking’s engineering philosophy stands out — their machines are not just tools, they are comprehensive grinding solutions designed for the modern era of high-efficiency production.”
Speaking on behalf of Topking Technology, Ms Pearl Lee added: “Since our inception in 2007, Topking has been dedicated to researching and producing precision grinding machines. We have established a robust sales network spanning over 20 countries across five continents, and partnering with RK International allows us to deepen our presence in the UK, a major European industrial. We view ourselves not just as a machine supplier, but as a grinding solution centre and a reliable technical partner for our clients.”
From its origins in two-axis NC cylindrical grinders, Topking has progressively expanded its capabilities to encompass complex CNC CAM cylindrical grinding machines, hydrostatic centreless grinders, and ‘linear-motor-driven cross-slider machines’.
Mr Rood said the focal point of this new partnership is the introduction of the Topking X-25 CNC cylindrical grinder to the UK market, particularly as this machine represents a paradigm shift in grinder design. “The X-25 is the perfect answer for UK manufacturers facing space constraints, as unlike traditional T-type-base designs, the X-Series uses a cross-slide structure that allows the X-25 to reduce floor space requirements by over 30% while significantly enhancing stability.
“The X axis and Z axis are designed as a cross-slider with the worktable permanently bolted to the machine base, giving a ‘travelling head’ configuration that keeps the workpiece stationary with respect to Z-axis travel while the slides move. This design significantly reduces machine space and shortens the required travel distance — improving working speed and precision stability.”
Comprehensive specificationMr Rood said: “The machine base itself is constructed from high-rigidity Meehanite cast iron that has undergone annealing and ageing treatment, while the slideways undergo high-frequency hardening and precision grinding, resulting in a deformation-free structure with outstanding wear resistance. Furthermore, the X and Z axes are protected by enclosed telescopic covers, which shield the high-precision linear scale and drive devices from grinding mist and coolant, ensuring long-term accuracy.”
Despite compact machine dimensions of just 1,800 x 2,310 x 1800mm, the X-25 features a swing diameter over table of 270mm, a maximum grinding diameter of 250mm, and a distance between centres of 200mm. The grinding wheel spindle, which is driven by a 5.5 kW motor, is manufactured from high-quality SNCM-220 alloy steel that undergoes a multi-stage heat-treatment process that achieves a surface hardness above HRC 62 and ensures long-term dimensional stability and resistance to deformation.
Mr Rood explained: “This level of detail in the spindle construction guarantees no deformation and high precision, while the use of ultra-precision bearings ensures a long service life, easy maintenance, and the ability to run the 510mm-diameter grinding wheel at a linear velocity of 45m/sec. This ensures high-efficiency material removal in a package small enough to fit in the tightest of machine shops.
“Furthermore, while Topking machines feature versatile control options, RK International is highlighting the X-25 equipped with the optional Fanuc 0i-TF, which brings world-class reliability and familiarity to UK operators; and with the X-25 featuring a user-friendly operating system with a built-in GUI (graphical user interface), operators do not need to be experts in complex G-code or M-code programming. The system allows the operator to divide complex components into multiple grinding processes via graphical guidance. You simply fill in the numerical data for grinding and dressing, and the machine handles the rest.”
He concluded: “The X-25 also ensures sub-micron accuracy through its feed design, which uses precise linear guides and a ballscrew design for two-axis movement. The machine can achieve rapid feed rates of 10,000mm/min and automatic feeding down to increments of 0.001mm. Moreover, this machine is not limited to simple plunge grinding but is capable of traverse grinding, oscillation grinding, and even shoulder grinding — and it is designed for automation, its rigid base and digital architecture making it an ideal candidate for robot-loading systems, and continuous production.”