- Offer Profile
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CNC precision machining centres, developed and build in the Kern machine tool plant in Eschenlohe, deliver optimum results in the most demanding machining
assignments — around the clock, seven days a week. The Kern Contract Manufacturing division, which is based at our Murnau plant, draws on the know-how acquired by our Mechanical Engineering team in Eschenlohe. Conversely, our many years of experience gained in manufacturing practice continually flow into the ongoing improvement and optimisation of our machines. This close interlinking of Contract Manufacturing and Machine Engineering is what makes Kern Microtechnik unique!Visit us on:
Machines & Services
- When developing our machines, we pay attention to every
last detail. A Kern machine is imperturbable, µ-exact in operation and
especially comfortable to operate. Kern Microtechnik’s high level of
vertical integration guarantees that every machine leaving our factory
delivers outstanding build quality, enduring process stability and reliable
execution of its individual production tasks
Flexible machines for future-proof production: Our sales organisation is not just about machines, but also about the processes that make it possible to produce sophisticated parts efficiently. Ultimately, it is the well-balanced combination of the operator, machine and process expertise that makes the difference. We contribute to creating the best conditions in all three areas. Kern Micro Platform
- Whether prototyping or serial production - when the highest precision is required, the acquisition of a machining center from KERN Microtechnik is the right thing to do. The KERN Micro platform in particular allows you to configure the best machine for your specific range of applications. Kern machines can easily be integrated into your production. We are specialized in flexible machines for serial production.
Kern Micro HD
- The Kern Micro HD represents the latest development of our machines in terms of innovation and impresses with unrivalled long-term precision, the highest possible surface quality and unsurpassed cutting performance for the high-precision user.
Highest productivity without limits- Compact design and small footprint of less than 5 sqft / 5 m2
- Supreme machine stability with the advanced Kern temperature management
- High dynamics and productivity through integrated linear motor drives
- Best quality and wear-free due to innovative Kern micro-gap hydrostatics
- High dynamics and productivity with proven components and processes
- Multi-shift operation without operators and with integrated tool-changer for up to 210 tools and max. 60 workpieces
- Certified interfaces for additional accessories and automation systems
TechnologiesNew benchmark in precision manufacturing
With its novel micro-gap hydrostatics, linear drives and advanced Kern temperature management, the Kern Micro HD is the new benchmark in precision, long-term stability and dynamics. Together with the know-how of our customers and the Kern application technology, the Kern Micro HD is unbeatable.Automation
KERN CNC machining centers have standardized interfaces for all common automation systems. It is easy to integrate a KERN machine into any existing production line, our machines offer the highest flexibility and safety for your automation task.
The automation of a KERN machine for tools and workpieces does not affect service in any way, the main door of the machine chamber remains accessible even while the machine is running.
Your Advantage
- 24/7 Reliable Serial Production
- Significant increase in turnover - also in night shifts
- One operator for many machines
Specifications
Axes: travel
- X-axis: 350 mm
- Y-axis: 220 mm
- Z-axis: 250 mm
- B-axis: -110° to +110° Option -180° to +110°
- C-axis: 360° endless
Kern Micro Vario
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With its new design and many further developments, the second generation of the Kern Micro sets new standards in flexibility, precision and productivity.
Ultra-compact, flexible and application-oriented, the Kern Micro Vario generates the decisive competitive advantage - permanently and efficiently.
Compact, extremely precise, incredibly powerful- Compact design and small footprint of only 43 sqft / 4 m2
- Supreme machine stability with the advanced Kern temperature management
- High productivity with unmatched accuracy
- Best quality, flexibility and competitiveness
- High dynamics and productivity with proven components and processes
- Multi-shift operation without operators and with integrated tool-changer for up to 210 tools and max. 60 workpieces
- Certified interfaces for additional accessories and automation systems
TechnologiesThe variable platform for the highest demands
Thanks to the sophisticated machine design, the unique Kern temperature management and high-quality components, the Kern Micro Vario reliably delivers the proverbial Kern precision and repeat accuracy.Automation
KERN CNC machining centers have standardized interfaces for all common automation systems. It is easy to integrate a KERN machine into any existing production line, our machines offer the highest flexibility and safety for your automation task.
The automation of a KERN machine for tools and workpieces does not affect service in any way, the main door of the machine chamber remains accessible even while the machine is running.
Your Advantage
- 24/7 Reliable Serial Production
- Significant increase in turnover - also in night shifts
- One operator for many machines
Specifications
Axes: travel
- X-axis: 350 mm
- Y-axis: 220 mm
- Z-axis: 250 mm
- B-axis: -110° to +110° option -180° to +110°
- C-axis: 360° endless
Kern Micro Pro
- Since its market launch, the Kern Micro has combined maximum precision with maximum flexibility and performance. Thanks to the further developed machine platform, the Kern Micro Pro provides a solution with a focus on the industrial environment and precise series production. The perfect entry into micro machining.
Solution for precise serial production- Small footprint of 43 sqft / 4 m2
- Management and maintenance during operation without interruption while machine is running
- Attractive purchase conditions and low maintenance costs
- High dynamics and productivity with proven components and processes
- Multi-shift operation without operators and with integrated tool-changer for up to 210 tools and max. 60 workpieces
- Certified interfaces for additional accessories and automation systems
Technologien
Even more compact, even more efficient
Due to the consistent focus on serial production, a machine was created that combines productivity, efficiency and reliability like no other. The system is based on proven, high-quality Kern technology and guarantees reliability and stability over a long machine life.Automation
KERN CNC machining centers have standardized interfaces for all common automation systems. It is easy to integrate a KERN machine into any existing production line, our machines offer the highest flexibility and safety for your automation task.
The automation of a KERN machine for tools and workpieces does not affect service in any way, the main door of the machine chamber remains accessible even while the machine is running.
Your Advantage
- 24/7 Reliable Serial Production
- Significant increase in turnover - also in night shifts
- One operator for many machines
Specifications
Axes: travel
- X-axis: 350 mm
- Y-axis: 220 mm
- Z-axis: 250 mm
- B-axis: -110° to +110° Option -180° to +110°
- C-axis: 360° endless
Specialty Machines
- Our machining centers KERN Evo and KERN Pyramid Nano already have a long tradition at KERN and it is impossible to imagine the market without them.
Kern Evo
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Die Kern Evo ist das Ergebnis konsequenter Entwicklungsarbeit vieler Jahre und resultiert in höchster Präzision und Produktivität speziell in der Micro- und Uhrenteilefertigung. Besonders geeignet ist die Kern Evo für 3-achsige Anwendungen, sowie in der Fräsbearbeitung bei hohen und mittleren Stückzahlen.
The result of intelligent evolution!
- Compact design and minimum space requirement
- Outstanding precision and surface quality on the workpiece
- Optimal ergonomics
- High flexibility (3- or 5-axis)
- Process optimized automation opportunities
Technologien
Cutting-edge technologies for highest precision
The use of mature product technologies predestines the Kern Evo for process-reliable series production.Automation
KERN CNC machining centers have standardized interfaces for all common automation systems. It is easy to integrate a KERN machine into any existing production line, our machines offer the highest flexibility and safety for your automation task.
The automation of a KERN machine for tools and workpieces does not affect service in any way, the main door of the machine chamber remains accessible even while the machine is running.
Your Advantage
24/7 Reliable Serial Production
Significant increase in turnover - also in night shifts
One operator for many machinesSpecifications
Axes: travel
- X-axis: 300 mm
- Y-axis: 280 mm
- Z-axis: 250 mm
- B-axis: -10° to +100° (swivel)
- C-axis: 360° endless
Kern Pyramid Nano
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The Kern Pyramid Nano is designed for applications that require the highest precision and surface quality, even on large workpieces that also require short machining times. With the integrated workpiece changer, the Kern Pyramid Nano can also work unmanned, especially for 5-axis simultaneous tasks.
- Hydrostatic guides and drives
- Intelligent temperature management
- Highest productivity and precision
- Wear-free precision throughout its lifetime
- Optimised for specific applications
- Automation and productivity
- Jig grinding
- Multi-shift operation without operators
Technologies
Advanced technology for μ-accurate serial production
The core of the machine are the hydrostatically mounted axes, which promise practically wear-free, lifelong precision. This means that the quality and precision of the axes remain constant over extremely long periods of time. In addition, the hydrostatics enable high accelerations with excellent vibration damping at the same time, which brings productivity and precision into perfect harmony. In combination with the temperature management developed by Kern , you have an optimally adjusted machine system at all times.Jig grinding technology
Hydrostatic milling and grinding in one clamping.
With its hydrostatic guides and drives, the KERN Pyramid Nano has optimum prerequisites not only for milling but also for grinding.
With the optional KERN coordinate grinding package, modular building blocks from the world of grinding technology can be added to your KERN Pyramid Nano :
- Dressing units incl. dressing cycles
- Ultrasonic sensor technology for zero point detection or contact monitoring
- KO grinding cycles with freely programmable pendulum stroke of the Z-axis
All modules are 100% integrated in the Heidenhain control and can be used via NC programs and integrated into your processes.
Specifications
Axes: travel
- X-axis: 500 mm
- Y-axis: 500 mm
- Z-axis: 400 mm
- B-axis: -20° to +110° (swivel)
- C-axis: 360° endless
High-precision Contract Manufacturing
- All our automation facilities offer maximum autonomy and reliable, unmanned machining 24/7.
High precision HSC and hard milling
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For your machining assignment, KERN contract production offers you μ-accurate HSC (High Speed Cutting) in air conditioned rooms. With our modern machine pool, we reliably achieve highly accurate contours, sculptured surfaces and bores with form and location tolerances within ± 1 μm. This eliminates the need for precision assemblies with time-consuming adjustments.
The hydrostatic guides on the KERN Micro HD guarantee maximum precision and friction damping in absolute freedom, and truly stand out when machining hardened steel or materials hard to machine. Due to hydrostatics, we achieve an extremely high surface finish quality, significantly reducing the need for reworking (e.g. polishing).
The features of KERN contract production for HSC milling and hard milling:
- μ-accurate production in air-conditioned rooms
- CAM programming for 3- to 5-axis simultaneous milling
- High Speed Cutting at up to 50,000 rpm
- Hard milling up to 66 HRC with optimum surface finish due to hydrostatics
- Quality control via 3D-coordinate measuring systems
- Monitoring of series production by SPC (Statistical Process Control)
Micro-milling and micro-drilling
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Our fully air-conditioned production center contains twelve KERN ultra-high precision CNC machining centers with high speed spindles. They give us the capability to manufacture anything from prototypes to serial batches of up to 10,000 pieces. Our product range includes watch plates and movement parts, fiber optic connectors for medical endoscope heads and turbine wheels in the submillimeter range.
For serial production, we have nine automated manufacturing cells available. They offer maximum autonomy and reliable, unmanned machining around the clock (24/7) with buffer storage for hundreds of components and high repeat accuracy thanks to zero point clamping systems. Process stability is further enhanced by automatic tool exchange and correction of tool wear.
The extremely high process stability ( KERN expertise ) at KERN contract manufacturing ensures that the first part has the same quality as the ten thousandth.
The features of KERN contract production in micro-milling and micro-drilling:
- μ-accurate production of micro-parts and micro-structures in an air-conditioned space
- Use of micro-tools: from bore size Ø 0.03, milling cutter Ø 0.05, tap drill M0.2
- High Speed Cutting at up to 50,000 rpm
- CAM programming for 3- to 5-axis simultaneous milling
- Quality assurance with 3D-coordinate measuring systems
- Monitoring of series production by SPC (Statistical Process Control)
Wire and vertical EDM
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EDM is a contactless machining process for workpieces with combined requirements beyond those of conventional milling, e.g. special geometries or material hardnesses. When using EDM for micro-parts and micro-structures, KERN’s contract production achieves the same precision as high conventional milling.
In order to consistently meet our high-quality standards, we produce our own electrodes and micro-electrodes for EDM on our high precision KERN CNC milling centers and test them with 3D-coordinate measuring machines.
Wire-cut EDM at KERN contract production:
- High accuracy within +/− 1.5 μm
- Surface quality up to Ra 0.05
- Micro-EDM & fine wire-cut EDM up to Ø 0.03 mm
- Wire-cut EDM with CNC dividing head (turning axis)
CNC EDM at KERN contract production:
- 16-fold electrode changer
- Micro-EDM with a special generator for ultra-fine structures
- Starting hole EDM from Ø 0.23mm to Ø 3mm
Latest machine technology at KERN Microtechnik
Our new Agie Charmilles Cut 3000 enables tolerances of 1.5 μm on the workpiece with a surface finish quality of up to Ra 0.05. The twin-wire system automatically changes between standard and fine wires during processing to achieve inner radii of less than 20 μm. The diameter of the wires ranges from 0.03mm to 0.3mm.
Surface and jig grinding
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From our in-house production of high precision machine components, KERN Microtechnik has amassed enormous expertise in the manufacture of axle components, spindle beds and guide bearings for precision guidance systems.
We use surface grinding to guarantee the necessary flatness and parallelism for contact surfaces, as well as optimum surface quality. With our surface grinding machines, we achieve a flatness and parallelism of 2 microns in a 600 x 200mm area.
For maximum precision when using a combination of jig grinding and milling in a single clamping, we turn to our hydrostatic KERN Micro HD. With the 5-axis machine, we were able to reduce the processing time when grinding prismatic guides by approx. 80% compared to conventional processing using a surface grinding machine. Throughout, accuracy remained at 2 µm for parallelism and angularity.
Laser marking
- With the Trumpf TruMark 3230 marking lasers, we perform micro-lettering and the creation of data matrix codes on almost all materials. A good example is the temper marking of plastic parts from a diameter of 0.7mm and a length of 2.3mm. Optionally, we can mark the components by turning the dividing head at the periphery.
Measurement Technology
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Measuring down to the μ
Highly accurate measuring is a prerequisite for the production of micro- and high precision parts. It is therefore unsurprising that the measuring and testing equipment used at KERN contract production is correspondingly extensive and high quality. It includes more than 1,500 different measurement and testing apparatus that are regularly calibrated to the requirements of ISO 9001. Equipped with five high-end measuring machines, the KERN testing laboratory is kept at a constant temperature range of ± 0.5K.
Overview of KERN’s precision measuring systems:
- Latest tactile and optical 3D-coordinate measuring machines by Zeiss
- Acquisition of component topographies by white light sensor (multisensor machine)
- Stylus tip from 0.12 to 5mm
- Measurement and evaluation of manufactured parts around the clock in both manned and unmanned shifts via high levels of automation (autorun surface)
- External programming station to create new analytical programs in parallel to existing measurement processes
- Statistical process control (Zeiss PiWeb) for efficient quality control of serial production
Kern Machine Support
- Our clear goal at Kern Service is maximum reliability,
worldwide. Whether for previous purchases or new Kern machines — in an
emergency, in case of changes or new developments, you can always rely on
us.
Our qualified service experts are here to assist you and process your query without delay — so that your machine always delivers maximum productivity! 
Maintenance
- The regular maintenance of your Kern machine guarantees
longevity, reliable operation and high value retention. In addition,
maintenance prevents more expensive repairs, protects you from longer
downtime and reduces production downtime costs to a minimum.
Contact us for your individual offer.
Repair
- Our inventory of replacement parts is comprehensive, even
for older Kern machines.
We offer a special Kern service for high speed milling spindles. We hold a permanent stock of refurbished, quality checked replacement spindles for all Kern CNC machining centers. In the event of spindle damage you will immediately receive a replacement — but you only pay for the refurbishing costs of your returned defective spindle.
Remote Service
- Kern teleservice – worldwide fault management
In order to minimize waiting times, our trained service technicians worldwide can directly access your Kern machine via a secure internet connection. Through this process, components and control systems can be checked, a diagnosis made and the fault rectified. But it is always your decision when to give our technicians access to your machine. The Kern machine support teleservice can be retro-fitted to many existing Kern machining centers.
Kern Upgrades & Retrofits
Industry Solutions
Automotive
- The Kern Micro and Kern Evo CNC machining centers by Kern
Microtechnik are a supreme match for the extraordinarily high expectations
and requirements which the automotive industry places on serial production
machines. Kern machines distinguish themselves by exceeding the highest
quality standards and delivering extreme process stability and reliability —
while being specifically optimized for unmanned, 24/7 production.
Kern machines are especially well suited to meeting the following requirements of the automotive industry:- Short set-up times due to modular programming for flexible production of entire families of parts
- Integrated measuring technology for maximum part reliability
- Professional service availability
- Permanent process optimization in close coordination with the customer-specific Continuous Improvement Process (CIP)
Dental Equipment
- Dental technology products, for example dental
prostheses, require precision machines capable of rapidly milling highly
varying workpieces made from very hard materials like titanium and ceramics.
Dental prostheses are frequently made and fitted for the patient on the same
day, placing especially high demands for reliability and flexibility on the
CNC machining center being used.
Kern Microtechnik possesses long-standing experience of the dental industry’s unique requirements. With the Kern Micro Kern Microtechnik has developed a universal machine capable of not only processing the widest range of very hard materials, but also of fast and precise milling of complex geometric forms. Thanks to extensive automation and short processing times, Kern Micro offers the dental industry sustained precision during continuous operation.
Overview of the advantages for the dental industry:- Maximum vibration control enables optimal tool life
- Fewer compensatory movements and reduced processing times due to optimized kinematics
- 5-axis machining with optimal accessibility and pressure angles
- Reduced maintenance thanks to intelligent chip flow
- Comprehensive automation possibilities
Micromechanics
- Micromechanics — the production of microscopically small components —
requires high volumes of precision-milled parts. Our Kern Evo and
Kern Micro machines are not only optimized for automated high speed
manufacturing of watch plates and watch parts, but also for lightguide
connection elements, medical endoscope heads and turbine wheels in the
submillimeter range.
In close collaboration with a wide range of watchmakers, the performance of Kern’s high precision machining centers has been perfected right from the start. For many years, Kern machining centers have met the exacting demands of these industries for (free-form) geometric complexity, precision and surface finish, setting new standards for machining capabilities in the microtechnology sector.
The advantages of Kern machines for the microtechnology sector:- Intelligent chip management can be engaged for thorough cleaning and recycling of valuable materials
- μ-exact probing allows maximum repeat accuracy during tool changes in processes with more than one clamping
- Maximum process reliability ensures uniform quality and guarantees minimal waste
High frequency
- The “digital revolution” has transformed mobile
communications into a highly dynamic technology within a rapidly growing
market. The key components in high frequency tech (and its complementary
technologies) are subject to extremely stringent precision requirements.
Despite this, they must also be producible in high volumes.
The Kern Pyramid Nano enables serial manufacture of such parts (e.g. wave guides) — even when they are already end products.
The advantages of Kern Pyramid Nano for high frequency technologies:- Hydrostatic guides and drives in all axes
- Maximal reproducibility
- Maximum smoothness and surface finish
- High Z-stability across different speed ranges
Tool manufacture
- In microtechnology, manufacturers of shaping and cutting dies and molds are often tasked with precise machining of very hard materials. All
CNC Machining centers by Kern Microtechnik are perfectly suited to the
direct milling of hardened steels or even carbide as well as milling with copper, tungsten copper and graphite electrodes.
Direct hard milling with Kern – your benefits
- High-quality surface finish due to HSC spindles with maximal smoothness, hydrostatic pivots and perfect contour control via iTNC530 or TNC 640
- Milling of free-form surfaces with high precision through μ-exact spindle movements and 5-axis simultaneous milling
- Very high absolute accuracy thanks to perfect calibration between tool and workpiece in all Kern machines
- Short set-up times for small production batches
Electrode milling with Kern — your benefits- Very high absolute accuracy as a basis for stable EDM processes
- High-quality surface finish due to HSC spindles with maximal smoothness, hydrostatic pivots and perfect contour control via iTNC530 or TNC 640
- Extremely high repeat accuracy: thanks to perfect thermal management every Kern machine enables absolutely stable unmanned serial production (using proprietary technologies)
Research
- Our machines are making valuable contributions to high
level research projects in internationally renowned scientific institutions
throughout Europe, Asia, USA, Brazil, Cuba and South Africa. Whether with
Kern machines at our customers‘ sites or at Kern’s contract production plant
in Eschenlohe — Kern Microtechnik is an active development partner
for high precision parts across a vast range of technologies and research
fields:
- Research in satellite technology
- Nuclear fusion research (e.g. UK and USA)
- Neurosurgery
- Processing of hard to machine materials (high-alloy steel, titanium, sandwich materials)
- CERN particle accelerator (Switzerland)
All Kern machines offer the following advantages for research and development applications:- Maximum precision through absolute positional accuracy and perfect temperature control
- Maximum reliability and adherence to all industry standards guaranteeing low maintenance and servicing requirements
Jewelry
- The automated production requirements for high value jewelry items are every bit as demanding as those for
Micromechanics/watches. Precision, surface finish and the ability to manufacture complex free-form geometrical shapes — ideally in a single pass — are all decisive factors when choosing the most suitable CNC machining system. The use of highly valuable metals like gold and platinum places extra importance on having an intelligent chip management system with 100% reclamation of raw materials.
The Micro and Evo machines by Kern fulfill all of these requirements superbly. They are continually being optimized through close collaboration with internationally renowned watch- and jewelry makers. Kern Microtechnik’s patented quick-release plates vastly improve efficiency by enabling both tool changes and the processing of different articles with a variety of machining methods — even during unmanned operation over long periods.
The advantages of Kern machines for the jewelry industry:
- Intelligent chip management can be engaged for thorough cleaning and recycling of valuable materials
- Zero point clamping systems permitting maximum repeat accuracy, even after tool changes
- Maximum process reliability ensures uniform quality and guarantees minimal waste
- 5-axis simultaneous processing allows complex free-form geometries in a single milling operation
Medical technology
- Medical products, e.g. precision components in surgical
instruments, are manufactured from premium, hard to process materials like
titanium, chromium cobalt, stainless steel, ceramics or especially hard
plastics (e.g. PEEK or polyacetal). Their ability to be easily and
hygienically cleaned is particularly important, making the quality
requirements correspondingly high for CNC machining centers used for the
serial production of medical equipment.
With the Micro CNC machining center Kern Microtechnik has developed a machine that superbly meets all of the medical industry’s criteria for supreme surface finish quality and geometric precision.
Overview of the advantages for the medical industry:- Maximum vibration control enables optimal tool life
- Fewer compensatory movements and reduced processing times due to optimized kinematics
- 5-axis machining with optimal accessibility and pressure angles
- Reduced maintenance thanks to intelligent chip flow
Other Sectors
- The single greatest advantage Kern machines bring
to precision manufacturing is their vast range of applications. For
this reason, Kern machines have also been deployed with great success
outside their typical industries.
Whether processing differing materials and geometries in rapid succession or achieving maximum precision in high volume sustained production, our product and process development teams tune every Kern machine to the customer’s specific requirements — down to the last detail. Right from the beginning, we will help to prepare for the future requirements and technological developments of your specific industrial sector, making Kern Microtechnik your perfect partner for optimizing your manufacturing processes.
Get in touch with our experienced development and sales engineers!
We will work with you to develop an optimal solution that enables our machines and processes to meet your requirements and deliver the maximum increase in efficiency.