A state-of-the-art flexible manufacturing system from Starrag performs the finishing of precision-forged titanium turbine blades. The Swiss machine and plant manufacturer applied the expertise it has gained over its many years of experience in design and in key details to reliably produce up to 40,000 blades per year. For example, an individual milling program is generated for each blade due to small component differences arising from the process.

Starrag, which is based in Rorschacherberg, has been handling turn-key projects for the manufacture of turbine blades and structural components for over 20 years. Around 60 automated multi-machine systems have been created during this time, providing a wealth of technological experience. A large number of customers currently benefit from this wealth of experience, as there is a clear trend towards flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) worldwide. Head of Sales Rainer Hungerbühler explains: "While in the past we had a maximum of two such projects in progress at any time, we currently have four projects that will be delivered to Asia and America. The aerospace and energy industry is increasingly taking advantage of the benefits offered by this type of automated series production, in terms of both quality and efficiency, in the manufacture of key components such as turbine blades."