Part carriers in CNC machining: Surface protection, automation and process continuity

In modern CNC manufacturing, not only the precision of the machine is decisive, but also the workpiece handling in terms of quality, efficiency and automation. CNC machining centers from DMG Mori, GROB, Hermle or Chiron work with micrometer precision – but only precisely fitting workpiece carriers ensure the necessary process environment, from the raw part to component cleaning.

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🛡️ 1. Component protection & Repeatability

Part carriers from ZELL fix components securely and without stress – particularly important for sensitive geometries, visible surfaces, or finely machined functional zones.

🔹 No scratches or contact marks on sealing or fitting surfaces
🔹 Positive and non-positive locking – no slipping during transfer
🔹 Ideal for 5-axis machining with tight tolerances (≤ 10 µm)
🔹 Vibration-damping and contour-protecting materials (e. g. soft pads, plastic inserts)

✅ Proven with customers such as Müller Präzision and NTK, where surface protection and repeatability are crucial.

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🤖 2. Automation & Pick-and-Place Capability

Thanks to correctly oriented singulation in the workpiece carrier, components are always ready for automatic transfer processes – whether loading machines or in complex production cells.

🔹 Compatible with robot and gantry handling (e. g. Robo2Go, GRC, HS flex)
🔹 Defined gripping points for safe pick-and-place operations
🔹 Optional integration of RFID, DMC or engraving for traceability
🔹 Ideal for unmanned production, also in 3-shift operation

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🚿 3. Consistency: CNC machining ➝ Cleaning without re-racking

A key advantage: The components remain in the same carrier – from the raw part, through processing, to cleaning.

🔹 No reloading necessary – saves time, personnel and prevents errors
🔹 Can be cleaned in spray systems, ultrasonic or passivation baths
🔹 Protection is maintained even after processing
🔹 Ideal for companies with high cleanliness requirements

💡 Typical scenario at NTK: CNC ➝ Cleaning ➝ Measuring cell – all in the same carrier, no media disruption.

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💰 4. Economic benefits for production & purchasing

Part carriers are permanently reusable and offer clearly measurable advantages in series production.

🔹 Reduzierte Rüstzeiten (z. B. <30 Sek. Teilewechsel)
🔹 >500 Zyklen Standzeit pro Träger (abhängig vom Einsatz)
🔹 Modularer Aufbau – Ersatzteile einfach austauschbar
🔹 Reduzierter Ausschuss durch flächenschonendes Handling
🔹 TCO-optimiert: Geringe Stückkosten über Lebenszyklus
🔹 Nahtlose Anbindung an ERP/QS-Systeme für Auditfähigkeit und Traceability

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Conclusion: Part carriers as the key to automated precision manufacturing

The part carrier systems from ZELL offer more than just positioning – they enable a clean, safe and automated production flow, from the first chip to the clean finished part. They improve part quality, reduce costs and create the basis for end-to-end Industry 4.0 processes.

✨ Process-reliable. Automatable. Cleanable. Reusable.
➡ Proven with customers such as Müller Präzision, NTK and many more.

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