Dean Smith & Grace, a manufacturer of classic lathes, has launched a manufacturing division that specializes in designing and building large-capacity precision milling machines. Models produced by the new entity, MCON UK Ltd. range from single-travelling-column designs with horizontal/universal heads to fixed- or travelling-twin-column machines with fixed or elevating rail options. Bespoke machines can also be designed and manufactured to customers’ precise requirements.

Though the division name is new, its machines are well proven. Their development has gone on quietly in test sites throughout the UK and overseas for a number of years. Several long-term installations have been working successfully in various production environments, carrying out machining operations ranging from precision line boring on heavy-duty excavator arms to the machining of complex 5-axis composites. One travelling-gantry machine reportedly has performed flawlessly in around-the-clock use for six years with only basic routine maintenance.

The MCON range will be built by hand in a new manufacturing facility near the Dean Smith & Grace headquarters in West Yorkshire.

“We have felt for some time that there was a niche in the market for high-quality large-capacity milling machines of the highest specification that yet are cost competitive when compared with those of established manufacturers,” says Dean Smith & Grace managing director Nigel Grainger. He adds that each MCON machine will be built to the same exacting standards as are applied to Dean Smith & Grace lathes.

“By matching industry-proven design with excellent build quality and high-spec components,” Grainger concludes, “we confidently expect MCON precision milling machines to gain a significant market presence alongside Dean Smith & Grace world-class lathes.”