Independent builders merchant C&W Berry has installed a Reichenbacher Vision CNC machining centre to keep up with a rapid increase in staircase orders.
The investment has trebled staircase component production at the Leyland-based company and reduced delivery times from five weeks to 15 days.
Berry previously used spindle moulders, stair trenchers and hand routers to make staircases. Its decision to go the CNC route was influenced by a shortage in skilled labour.
The five-axis Reichenbacher features an automatic 12-position tool changer, with each tool holder fitted with a Leitz tool management system. The Cardanic working head is used for routing, drilling and sanding, and is turned through a C-axis (360 degrees) and B-axis (180 degrees).
The company also intends to use the machine to make fascia boards and shaped window cills and boards.
