Facebook-f Linkedin Youtube

News published on

05/10/2019

GRAUX acquires a new large milling machine

A new SORALUCE FP 8000 milling machine is operational.

In October 2019, GRAUX proceeded with the start-up of a new, high-dimensional capacity, more accurate and self-contained milling machine. This equipment completes the upgrade of the entire production tool and thus meets the growing demand for the manufacture of large welded units.

Accommodating a 26-ton machine in a working shop presents many challenges.

The installation of this new machining unit required careful preparation. The continuation of the activities in the hall intended to accommodate this machine had to be ensured while reorganizing the work areas to free up space for the important work required to prepare the slab. All this in a busy production schedule! The team was flexible and participated fully in the smooth arrival of this new ‘baby’.

The demolition of the concrete slab, excavation and removal of 240 m3 of soil was completed by the end of May 2019. Then, during the month of June, a specific reinforcement was carried out, a high resistance concrete was poured and the anchoring studs of the machine were made with great precision.

At the August resumption, following the official summer shutdown, the milling machine was installed. At the end of this work, which lasted six weeks, the first machine adjustments could be made at the end of September. The final acceptance took place in early October.

Technical information of the milling machine.

Brand: Soraluce

Model: FP 8000

Longitudinal stroke (X axis): 8000mm

Vertical travel (Y axis): 3100mm

Transverse stroke (Z axis): 1600mm

Milling head with automatic indexing, power 37 KW, speed 7000 rpm

40 tool magazine

Heindenhain iTNC 640 numerical control that receives programs from our Mastercam CAD/CAM system.

Dimensions of the machine: 16250x8200x4130 mm

Weight: 26 T

Tolerances measured when the machine is delivered.

The machine has been received in our workshops with the following measurements:

  • Accuracy of machine geometry according to ISO 10791-3:
    • X axis: 0.022 mm on the 8000mm
    • Y axis: 0.005 mm
    • Z axis: 0.02 mm
  • Head accuracy according to ISO 10791-3:
    • Spindle nose: 0.005mm
    • Spindle axis in relation to the table: 0.004mm
    • Head rotation: 0.01mm

A new machine oriented towards the needs of demanding customers.

This milling machine is an ideal complement to our production tools. It allows us to meet, in particular, the specific needs in terms of large machining dimensions and high production dynamics.

Here are its main advantages:

  • More capacities in terms of size;
  • More important accuracy;
  • Autonomous machining of the machine (without permanent operator) thanks to the magazine of 40 tools;
  • High spindle speed for better surface finish and faster machining of aluminum;
  • Perfect for the machining of large welded joints.

Pictures of the milling machine in our workshop

 

 

Disparition de Marc CHANTEUX

C’est avec une profonde tristesse que nous annonçons le décès de Monsieur Marc CHANTEUX, survenu à Momignies le 8 janvier 2026, à l’âge de 72 ans.

Marc a marqué l’histoire de l’entreprise GRAUX par son engagement et son leadership. Entré en 1980 au sein de la société ACM Momignies, qui fusionnera plus tard avec les Ateliers Graux pour devenir GRAUX, il a joué un rôle clé dans le développement de l’entreprise. D’abord responsable du suivi des fabrications, il a rapidement pris en charge les relations commerciales, tout en renforçant le savoir-faire technique de l’entreprise dans les domaines du tournage, du fraisage et du montage mécanique.

En 2002, Marc est devenu Administrateur Délégué de GRAUX. Sous sa direction, l’entreprise a connu une croissance significative, tant sur le plan commercial qu’industriel. Il a su moderniser les infrastructures, développer le parc machine, et renforcer les compétences de l’équipe, tout en cultivant des partenariats durables fondés sur des valeurs de rigueur, réalisme et partage.

Soucieux de la pérennité de l’entreprise, Marc a préparé la transition vers la 4ème génération en accompagnant son fils, Julien CHANTEUX, qui a repris la direction générale en 2018. Julien, impliqué dans la gestion de GRAUX depuis 2003, incarne aujourd’hui la continuité de cette aventure familiale et industrielle.

Exceptionnellement, l’entreprise GRAUX sera fermée le lundi 12 janvier 2026.

Les funérailles religieuses auront lieu le lundi 12 janvier 2026 à 10h30, en l’église Saint-Amand de Momignies. Un dernier hommage peut lui être rendu au funérarium Desmet Dardenne (146, Chaussée de Couvin à Chimay) vendredi, samedi et dimanche de 17h à 19h.

Nos pensées accompagnent ses proches et toute l’équipe de GRAUX dans ce moment douloureux.

Pour envoyer vos condoléances : [www.desmet-dardenne.be]