Precision Micro Machining at MACH

30 January 2026

Widely recognised as the UK’s ‘go-to’ specialists for all things micro manufacturing, Rainford Precision will once again be exhibiting at MACH with a host of groundbreaking new technologies on Stand 112 in Hall 6. Complementing the extensive display of cutting tools from partners such as Union Tool, Louis Belet, 6C Tools AG, Delmeco SA, DTS GmbH, Hobe GmbH, Hufschmied GmbH, IWATA Tool Co, Saito Seisakusho Co Ltd (ATOM), Schreurs Tools GmbH, and Sorma S.P.A., will be presentations on world-leading machine tool brands for niche manufacturing applications.

At the Birmingham NEC from 20th to 24th April, MACH attendees will discover innovative solutions in precision machining, turn-mill, precision electrochemical machining (PECM), and waterjet cutting from world-leading manufacturers. A perennial favourite at MACH is the micron-precise 3 and 5-axis machining technology from Kern Microtechnik. At MACH 2026, Rainford Precision will introduce the exceptional precision features of the newly launched Kern Micro HD+. This machine is the latest development in Kern's acclaimed Micro HD series, enhancing the patented micro-gap hydrostatic technology beyond linear axes to include fully hydrostatic B and C rotational axes.

The Micro HD+ offers significantly improved axial and radial run-out accuracy, increased dynamics through more powerful motors and topology-optimised structures, superior rigidity thanks to hydrostatic rotary and swivel axes, and enhanced thermal stability via active cooling of all bearing components. The result is high-speed dynamic movement while maintaining micron-level precision over extended production runs.

The compact platform manages workpieces up to 350mm diameter and 400mm in length, with an integrated tool changer that accommodates up to 210 tools. It achieves Ra0.05µm in serial production, often removing the need for finishing processes. For ultra precise machining of larger parts, Kern has also introduced the Fortis HD. With a much larger working envelope, this machine incorporates a shaft-cooled high-speed spindle, a single-sided bearing mount, advanced four-stage cooling and advanced linear drives. The result is a machine with the micron precision and repeatability associated with the Kern HD, but in a substantial 5-axis machining platform with an X, Y and Z-axis travel of 780 by 420 by 450mm with 120 degree in the B-axis and 360 degree continuous rotation in the C-axis. Imagine retaining astounding precision and having the flexibility to extend it to large parts – you can now with the Kern Fortis HD.

The Kern brand will be complemented at MACH by Innolite. Every ultra-precision diamond and alignment turning machine system from this German manufacturer can achieve sub-nanometre precision. The Innolite IL series offers sub-micron accuracy for demanding optical surfaces and precision engineering applications. This ranges from the compact IL200 to the large-scale IL1200 and IL1600 vertical platforms designed for machining optical surfaces up to 1.5m in diameter.

The IL400L combines selective laser etching with femtosecond lasers and laser-assisted diamond machining (ILPAC), enabling breakthrough processing of brittle materials beyond conventional diamond turning. Core technologies include DirectDrive3D, generating motion profiles at 10,000 fixed points per second, and NanoGrip clamping that achieves <0.5µm repeatability.

For MACH attendees seeking a compact platform in the micron rather than nano precision spectrum, Rainford Precision will be showcasing the Benzinger high-precision CNC turn/mill centres. As the exclusive UK agent, Rainford will be keen to highlight the merits of the TNI, Take 5, GoFuture, and DoLittle series of modular machines that excel in high-speed, high-accuracy production of components. The DoLittle machine is ideal for turning parts up to 26mm in diameter, with main spindles operating at speeds of up to 15,000rpm and radial and axial run-out below 0.5µm. The innovative tool block design enables sub-10µm tool change accuracy.

The GOFuture series merges precise automatic operation with hard turning ability for complete machining from bar stock up to 42mm in diameter. All Benzinger machines feature thermally stable construction, Siemens or FANUC controls with Industry 4.0 integration, and hard turning capability up to 72HRc, delivering mirror finishes below Ra3µm.

An undisputed crowd favourite at previous MACH exhibitions, Rainford is delighted to once again represent Finepart AB, the pioneering Scandinavian manufacturer of high-precision micro abrasive waterjet systems, at the UK’s flagship event. The Finecut WMC500II series operates at a cutting pressure of 4,000 bar through compact cutting heads, achieving cutting widths as narrow as 0.2mm with a positional accuracy of ±2.5µm.

The completely non-thermal particle erosion process removes heat-affected zones, material distortion, and property changes, making it ideal for advanced composites, aerospace alloys, shape-memory alloys (NiTi), ceramics, hardened steels, and exotic metals. Available in 3, 4, and 5-axis configurations, Finecut systems manage workpieces from 200µm to 500mm in diameter with the ability to handle complex 3D geometries.

Complementing its advanced machine tool technologies, Rainford Precision will showcase an extensive cutting tool portfolio from Union Tool, Louis Belet, 6C Tools AG, Delmeco SA, DTS GmbH and other world-leading brands. Highlights will include Union Tool's new HGLB and HWLB series for hard material machining from 50 to 70HRc, Louis Bélet's revolutionary Excalibur PCD range for non-ferrous materials, and IWATA's Toglon deep hole drilling technology for motorsport and aerospace applications.

Supporting this portfolio, Rainford Precision offers comprehensive tool analysis and consultancy services using advanced digital microscope technology. This enables manufacturers to understand tool wear patterns, optimise cutting parameters and maximise tool life through data-driven analysis. Rainford Precision's experienced technical specialists will be delighted to discuss application requirements with show visitors and explain how these advanced platforms can address specific manufacturing challenges.