Next-level craftsmanship CNC-aided manufacture of bespoke furniture
Customers who buy high-end furniture systems today expect personalized goods that are tailored to their decorating style. The exclusive unique pieces by furniture manufacturer Kettnaker combine high tech with craftsmanship – each is carefully crafted, using sophisticated production technology. For the corresponding machinery, Kettnaker has invested in a vertical continuous CNC: the Brema Vektor 15 CS from Biesse fits perfectly into the manufacturer’s concept, which emphasises individuality and optimised processes.
The furniture manufacturer Kettnaker has been designing and building furniture systems for 150 years and offers the individuality of a carpenter’s workshop by harnessing the power of modern technology. For Wolfgang Kettnaker, who manages the family business in the fifth generation, the innovative system concept combines precision craftsmanship with Industry 4.0. One challenge is how to reconcile customer-specific and standardised production. “Our furniture’s high degree of individualisation requires optimal workflows and a continuous flow of materials,” says Kettnaker. "Without digitisation and automation, we could not make bespoke furniture in a cost-efficient way.” This requires continuous maintenance and optimisation of the machinery. To ensure gentle handling and consistent quality of the individually manufactured components, the long-established company invested in a new automatic drilling machine. The demands on the newcomer were loaded, as Kettnaker explains: “We were looking for a supplier who would install the complete system including the periphery. Everything, including the software, had to be compatible and easy to use. In addition, we also prioritised the best possible drilling performance and a reduction of the set-up time.”
The decision was made in favour of the vertical continuous CNC "Brema Vektor 15 CS" from Biesse, which is suitable for businesses of all sizes, from carpentries to furniture factories. The Italian machine builder designed an individually configurable drilling and dowel insertion machine for industrial use for Kettnaker. The flexible Brema completes all sequential jobs quickly and efficiently. Since the workpiece passes through the machine in an upright position, all edges can be machined, and there is no need to turn the pieces over. Franz Zoll, operations manager at Kettnaker, is extremely satisfied with the new drilling machine: “Vertical machining eliminates the need to position the workpiece and suction cup. The set-up time is reduced to a minimum. We now only need a single machine with one operator to process all parts in one go.” Zoll sees further advantages in the ultra-fast exchange system, which enables changeover in less than two seconds using a 10-cavity tool holder. “This allows us to handle 500 parts per shift. We can even process particularly large workpieces up to 3.6 m long and 1.3 m wide with the Biesse machine.”