GROB Introduces 5-Axis Portal Milling Center for Large Parts

Large-part machining in aerospace, automotive, energy, and toolmaking requires a balance between precision, load capacity, and flexibility. With the introduction of its new 5-axis portal milling machining center, GROB addresses these demands by combining extended working ranges, high payload capacity, and full automation compatibility in a single system.

The GP1350, presented during GROB’s in-house exhibition held on March 17, 2026, marks a new addition to the company’s machining portfolio, targeting manufacturers handling complex geometries and large-format components. The machine is designed to support both single-part production and high-volume manufacturing, reflecting current industrial requirements for adaptable production systems.

Machining large components with consistent precision
The portal machining center provides working ranges of 1,400 mm (X-axis), 1,950 mm (Y-axis), and 1,100 mm (Z-axis), enabling the processing of large workpieces. It accommodates component dimensions up to 1,400 × 1,100 mm or 1,750 × 1,600 mm, with a maximum payload of 3.6 tonnes.

This configuration supports applications where structural rigidity and dimensional accuracy are critical, such as aerospace structures or large molds. The portal design contributes to process stability by distributing loads evenly, which helps reduce vibration during machining operations and improves surface finish quality.

The integration of a universal milling head with an undercut capability of -2.5 degrees allows access to complex geometries without frequent repositioning. This reduces setup time and limits the need for multiple fixtures, which is particularly relevant in precision manufacturing workflows.

Tool capacity and automation for scalable production
The machine is equipped with a tool magazine that can hold up to 408 tools, arranged in a double-row configuration. This layout enables simultaneous preparation of multiple tools and reduces downtime associated with tool changes, which is essential for multi-operation machining processes.

To address increasing demand for automated production, the system supports integration with pallet changers, pallet storage systems, and autonomous mobile robots (AMR). These features enable continuous operation and allow manufacturers to scale from prototype or small-batch production to larger series without significant changes in setup.

Such automation capabilities align with trends in digital manufacturing and smart factory environments, where minimizing manual intervention and improving throughput are key objectives.

Versatile applications across industrial sectors
The GP1350 is suited for industries requiring high precision and repeatability in large-part machining. In tool and mold manufacturing, it enables the production of large molds with complex contours. In the energy sector, it supports machining of heavy components such as turbine parts. Aerospace and automotive applications benefit from its ability to handle structural components and assemblies with tight tolerances.

The combination of high load capacity, stable portal construction, and automation readiness contributes to reduced scrap rates and improved production reliability, particularly in demanding industrial environments.

Demonstration at GROB in-house exhibition 2026
The GP1350 was showcased live at GROB’s in-house exhibition, held on March 17, 2026, as part of the company’s “100 Years of GROB” event. Visitors were able to observe the machine in operation and evaluate its performance across different machining tasks, alongside the company’s broader range of 4-axis and 5-axis universal machining centers.

Edited by Industrial Journalist Natania Lyngdoh — Adapted by AI.

www.grobgroup.com