The project represents a joint engineering collaboration between AM Hydraulics and Colchester, focused on developing a solution that would support increasingly complex subcontract component requirements while ensuring a smooth and confident transition into 5‑axis technology.
A Long‑Standing Partnership Built on Trust
AM Hydraulics is a long‑standing Colchester customer, with an established workshop that includes a wide range of Colchester and Harrison machine tools. This latest investment builds on a relationship developed over many years, underpinned by trust, technical support and proven machine reliability.
“We’ve worked with Colchester for a long time, so when we decided to move into full 5‑axis machining, it made sense to do that with a partner who understands our business and the type of work we do,” said Kuks Singh, Production Manager.
For AM Hydraulics, the move into 5‑axis machining was not simply about adding capacity, but about working collaboratively to ensure the right machine, configuration and support structure were in place from the outset.
First Step into Full Simultaneous 5‑Axis Machining
The Bridgeport XT630‑5AX was selected as the ideal platform to introduce AM Hydraulics to simultaneous 5‑axis machining, enabling more efficient production of complex hydraulic components while maintaining tight tolerances and consistent quality.
“This is our first machine with full simultaneous 5‑axis capability, so it was important that the transition was handled properly. The XT630‑5AX gives us the flexibility we need now, while also future‑proofing the business,” Kuks commented.
Key benefits for AM Hydraulics include:
- Reduced setups and part handling
- Improved accuracy on complex, multi‑face components
- Shorter lead times and improved workflow
- Greater flexibility for future component designs
Engineering Collaboration from Specification to Commissioning
Rather than a standard machine supply, the project was delivered as a joint engineering collaboration, with close involvement from both teams throughout specification, installation and training.
“From the initial discussions through to installation and training, it felt like a collaborative engineering project rather than a simple machine purchase,” said AM Hydraulics Production Manager, Kuks Singh.
“Colchester worked closely with us to understand our applications and how we wanted to develop our machining capability.”
This collaborative approach ensured the machine, tooling strategy and training programme were aligned with AM Hydraulics’ real‑world production requirements.
Speed of Delivery and Technical Support
AM Hydraulics also highlighted the speed of delivery and the level of technical support provided by Colchester as key factors in the project’s success.
“The speed at which Colchester delivered, installed and commissioned the machine really stood out. Combined with the technical support and training, it allowed us to get productive very quickly,” Kuks added.
The installation was supported by on‑site operator training, giving AM Hydraulics’ team the confidence to begin machining parts and developing 5‑axis processes from day one.
Bridgeport XT630‑5AX – A Platform for Growth
The Bridgeport XT630‑5AX offers a robust and accessible route into 5‑axis machining, combining rigidity, accuracy and advanced control technology.
Key features include:
- Full simultaneous 5‑axis machining capability
- Rigid machine structure for stable cutting performance
- Compact footprint with a generous working envelope
- Advanced CNC control for efficient programming
- Bridgeport build quality, supported by UK‑based service
These features provide AM Hydraulics with a strong foundation as it continues to expand its machining capability.
Investing in the Future
By entering full simultaneous 5‑axis machining with the Bridgeport XT630‑5AX, AM Hydraulics has taken a significant step towards future‑proofing its manufacturing operations.
“This project has been about more than just one machine. It’s about developing our capability with the right technical partner, and Colchester has supported us at every stage,” Kuks concluded.
Colchester Machine Tool Solutions continues to work in close partnership with UK manufacturers, delivering not only advanced machine tools, but the engineering expertise, training and collaboration needed to make new technology a success.
