Without altering the core value while also transforming from a traditional machine tool manufacturer to a NexGen technology solutions provider, Bharat Fritz Werner Ltd. (BFW) stands tall as a conduct of technological prowess. Such technological excellence was highlighted at INTEC 2024, where they displayed various products to enhance the technology and machining industry.
The company has over 60,000 installations across 18 countries, BFW operates with a mission to enable progress through cutting-edge manufacturing technologies. Their state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated R&D efforts have resulted in groundbreaking advancements in the industry. They not only cater to large OEMs but also to medium and small-scale enterprises (MSMEs).
BFW’s participation at INTEC 2024, successfully showcased its innovative and high-performance machine tools, highlighting their transformation from a traditional machine tool manufacturer to a provider of advanced technology solutions. They displayed a range of advanced machine tools, including horizontal and vertical machining centers, vertical turning lathes, and turning centers. Each of these machines is designed to meet the diverse needs of various industries, from aerospace and automotive to die & mold, forging, and railways. Their innovative approach includes the integration of advanced technologies such as Industrial IoT, data analytics, robotics, and 3D printing through their subsidiary, m2nxt Solutions.
Stating about Prima series product, Nikhil Nagaraj M, Joint General Manager Solutions Sales, BFW, highlighted the significance of the Prima 65 Pro: “This machine is ideal for tackling massive jobs in casting and steel applications. Its high productivity and robust design make it a perfect fit for various industries, including automotive, pumps, and tractor components.”
Product Showcase at INTEC 2024
At the recently held, INTEC 2024 exhibition in Coimbatore, BFW showcased an impressive array of machines that underscore their technological leadership. Among the showcased products were:
Horizontal Machining Centers (HMCs):
Prima 44 Pro, Prima 54 Pro, Prima 55 Pro, and Prima 65 Pro:
The Prima 65 Pro comes with a 630 x 800 pallet and is specifically designed for steel applications. One of its standout features is the rotary pallet changer, which allows for continuous loading and unloading of jobs, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. The machining chamber is completely isolated from the machine elements, with stainless steel covers for access protection and a single sheet cover for the Z axis.
The machine is equipped with a powerful spindle with a bearing ID of 100 mm and a spindle power of 26 kW. It also includes a CNC controller, with options for FANUC, SIEMENS, and Mitsubishi, depending on the customer’s preference. The Prima 65 Pro features a tool changer with a standard capacity of 40 tools, which can be expanded to 60, 80, or 120 tools. This flexibility allows for a wide range of applications, from tractor components to automotive parts like cylinder blocks and heads.
The Prima series, especially the Prima 65 Pro has a quick turnaround time. The Prima 65 Pro exemplifies BFW dedication to building machines that optimize productivity and efficiency.
Horizontal Turning Center (PL 5030L):
The PL 5030L is a horizontal turning center. This machine can handle a variety of spindle sizes. The machine also has check sizes ranging from 315 to 630 mm. It supports turning lengths from 800 mm up to 3 meters. Additionally, BFW offers a flatbed version in this category, which can handle turning lengths up to 6 feet. it accommodates a wide range of applications including heavy shafts, flanges, and components for industries like sugar, cement, and crushing machinery.
Similarly Nanmaaran N, Regional Sales Head at BFW, stated, “This horizontal turning center is built for the toughest applications, ensuring high performance and reliability in industries like crushing machinery, sugar mills, and cement factories.
Insights from the Interview
During an exclusive interview at INTEC 2024, Rajesh Agte, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, BFW India, emphasized the company’s strategic focus on democratizing advanced manufacturing technologies. He highlighted BFW’s commitment to bringing sophisticated solutions within reach of MSMEs, aligning with global trends like the China plus one strategy. “A key aspect of our strategy is not just catering to large corporations but also empowering smaller enterprises with the tools they need to enhance productivity and quality,” remarked Mr Agte. He pointed out that BFW’s solutions, including critical import substitutes developed in collaboration with OEMs, have made significant strides in sectors requiring high precision and reliability.
“BFW produces about 60% standard machines and 40% solutions, with around 25% being critical solutions. In the last 4-5 years, many of these solutions have replaced imports. Although not widely known, OEMs and key manufacturers are aware of this. For instance, we developed a crucial turning solution for a missile component that previously had to be imported. BFW, typically seen as a milling solution provider, successfully delivered this turning solution, earning us repeat business.” He further added.
BFW knows that manufacturers face different challenges that often need custom solutions. Sometimes, these solutions involve creating something entirely new that pushes the limits of design and technology. BFW’s focus on innovation and quality has made them a leader in the machine tool industry. By offering advanced and reliable machines, they support both large companies and small and medium businesses.
About BFW
BFW was established in 1961 in collaboration with Fritz Werner Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH, Germany. Located in Coimbatore, often referred to as the Manchester of India for its industrial prowess, BFW has transformed from a traditional manufacturer to a cutting-edge technology solutions provider. They cater not only to large original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) but also to medium and small-scale enterprises (MSMEs) with a wide array of high-performance machines. BFW’s product lineup includes sophisticated offerings like the Prima 65 Pro, a robust horizontal machining center ideal for heavy-duty applications, and the PL 5030L horizontal turning center, tailored for precision and efficiency in turning operations. With a steadfast dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, BFW continues to lead the charge in advancing India’s manufacturing capabilities on both domestic and global fronts.
