Friday, April 4, 2025

HERMLE USA Continues 5-Axis Revolution, Lights-Out Capability for Another Midwest Company

MetalQuest embraces industry 4.0 to diversify and expand into new industries

MetalQuest Unlimited has been delivering contract manufacturing services for over a quarter century. With its renowned commitment to quality and consistency, MetalQuest has become a trusted supplier to leaders in industries ranging from agriculture and commercial hydraulics to defense, electronics, medical, and more.

With growing demands for higher precision, more complex geometries, and faster production times, MetalQuest faced increasing pressure to upgrade their capabilities to stay competitive in industries like aerospace, defense, and medical. MetalQuest set its sights on acquiring a 5-axis machine to maximize their capabilities.

“That was the turning point for us to realize that was the route we wanted to go down for a 5-axis machine,” says Ryan Johnson, director of operations.

According to Johnson, the insights gained from that visit proved invaluable, as MetalQuest saw how the precision, efficiency, and versatility of the HERMLE machines could seamlessly address their challenges and client needs. With the capability to machine parts on their new HERMLE C 250 with RS 05-2 automation, MetalQuest not only modernized their operations but also unlocked the high tolerances needed to expand into new industries, including aerospace, space, and medical. This strategic move allowed the company to diversify its offerings while leveraging the existing systems and expertise already in place, positioning them for future success.

MetalQuest sought a solution that not only enhanced operational efficiency but also aligned with their long-term strategic vision. Scott Harms, President and CEO of MetalQuest Unlimited, explains, “The HERMLE 5-axis gives us the capability of doing as much of that particular part within one work holding as possible and it allows us to do it lights out.”

Johnson added, “We can run this machine lights out for 12, 14, even 16 hours at a time. When we come back, the parts are exactly where we left them, with a level of quality that’s superior to anything we’ve seen before. The HERMLE machine has truly been a game-changer for us, driving efficiency and consistency in ways we never thought possible.”

Gunther Schnitzer, President and CEO of HERMLE USA, reflects, “At HERMLE, we believe in empowering our partners to not just keep pace with the industry, but to lead it. By stepping up and investing in innovative technologies like the HERMLE 5-axis machines, MetalQuest has positioned itself as a forward-thinking leader, ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow and continue expanding its capabilities.”

About HERMLE USA, Inc.

HERMLE USA, Inc. located in Franklin, WI, is the North American headquarters of Maschinenfabrik Berthold HERMLE AG located in Gosheim, Germany. Since 1987, the firm has provided North America’s leading manufacturers with the finest high-precision 5-axis machines, automation solutions, applications assistance, customer training, and service. For more information visit www.hermleusa.net.

About MetalQuest Unlimited

MetalQuest Unlimited, located in Hebron, NB, is a full-service contract manufacturer specializing in precision CNC machining, assembly, and inventory management. Serving diverse industries such as agriculture, defense, firearms, consumer goods, and transportation, the company is committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, ensuring the delivery of precise, on-time solutions. For more information visit www.metalquest.net