Arca Swiss

Arca Swiss

The French company, Arca Swiss, has CMZ lathes on its production line for machining photographic accessories. Thanks to this machinery, the continuous production of parts is ensured, maintaining precision, and gaining in competitiveness. But what were the main reasons for the choice? They highlight, among other things, CMZ's clear commitment to in-house production and the confidence that transmits.

CUSTOMER FILE

NAME: ARCA-SWISS

LOCATION: Besançon

ACTIVITY: Machining and assembly of cameras and high precision photography accessories.

MACHINES:

  • TL25 B MS
  • TL 20 M
  • TA-30-YS-640

BACKGROUND

Arca Swiss is a company located in Besançon (France) dedicated to the machining and assembly of cameras and high precision photography accessories. It was founded in 1926 in Zurich and is deeply rooted in the Swiss tradition of quality and highly skilled craftsmanship. In 1999, the company transferred its headquarters to the French town, experiencing significant growth and broadening its international presence. Today, Arca-Swiss are regarded as one of the world's leading suppliers of cameras and tripod heads.

At production level, the company's aim was always to gain a competitive advantage and ensure continuous, quality production. The collaboration with CMZ began in 2008 with the acquisition of a TL-25-BMS and a TL-20-M which are still in operation today. Automatic feeders were also added so the lathes could operate 24/7 while holding tolerances perfectly. Years later the company added to its fleet of machinery with a third CMZ, a TA-30-YS-640. The key to building a lasting relationship over time has been trust, reliability and the quality of the service.

THE CHALLENGE

Arca Swiss was faced with a great challenge: carrying out milling operations continuously To find the best machine for its production requirements, the most complex parts were chosen and with CMZ the possibility of manufacturing them was validated in one of the  lathes with Y axis and tailstock from the range, fitted with a bar feeder. 

To ensure the compatibility of the project, complete simulations of the machining were sent showing the machine's production capabilities. Having the manufacturer's technical commitment was reassuring and advice was ongoing throughout the purchase process.

THE SOLUTION

After in-depth analysis, Arca Swiss decided on a TA-30-YS-640 with the motorised tool at 12,000 rpm option, ideal for high precision milling operations. In addition, it is part of CMZ's TA series, a model with a long track record in the market which is synonymous with reliability for all users.

But, why CMZ? The company highlights three aspects that were decisive in embarking on the investment. Firstly, the reliability provided by its previous experience meant that CMZ lathes were taken into consideration. After years of operation, continuous production holds the tolerances, making them, to quote Pieve, "excellent machines designed for large scale production."

Secondly, the commitment to in-house production and almost absolute control over the production process on the part of CMZ were key characteristics for Arca Swiss. Maximum internalisation, the choice of the best suppliers and components and direct commitment to customers makes CMZ the ideal ally.

Finally, the price was also decisive when making the investment as it is very competitive in relation to the performance provided.

DURABILITY AND PRECISION

The durability and precision of CMZ lathes are aspects highlighted by Arca Swiss. At the factory since 2008, their reliable, accurate construction makes these machines a sure-fire partner for accurate, continuous production. Since the time of purchase, no significant maintenance has been required, thus showing just how reliable the product is. "CMZ lathes are stable, robust, accurate machines," confirms Pieve.

Thanks to technical guidance from our sales representatives, Arca Swiss has been able to make the most of all the features and optimise the production processes, with proven productivity and profitability. The confidence and certainty of having found in CMZ a manufacturer of CNC lathes with a useful life of over 20 years did the rest.

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