Case Study | Centering and Facing
Stop Paying the Fixture-Swap Tax on Every Diameter Change
Every manual fixture change is unbilled downtime. The Midstates KN6HS approach replaces fixture-driven changeover with recipe-driven execution so part-family shifts happen at the HMI, not with wrench time. The result is faster response to demand with less excess inventory drag.
The Cost Leak in Traditional C&F
Traditional centering and facing lines can be productive on stable, narrow families. Once diameter variation rises, fixture logistics become the real line constraint.
- Fixture burden: operators may need to track 20 to 30 fixture variants.
- Switchover loss: each mechanical swap adds minutes of non-cutting time.
- Inventory distortion: teams overproduce to amortize setup, then carry excess stock.
The KN6HS Alternative
On the Midstates KN6HS centering and facing platform, the operator runs the next part size by selecting the recipe on the HMI and pressing start.
- Changeovers move from minutes to seconds.
- Mixed-batch and high-volume run on one operating model.
- Schedule execution stops being limited by fixture swap labor.
Program Fit Tags
Solution Architecture
Midstates configures Kira Japan KN6HS dual-opposed machines with programmable CNC sequencing for centering/facing and related multi-op workflows. Configuration is tailored to the part-family envelope, while the architecture remains stock-module based for repeatable support.
Configuration Envelope
Fixed Models
Z-axis stroke options of 250, 290, 400, and 800 mm (total travel up to 1600 mm).
Pallet Changer Models
Z-axis stroke options of 250, 290, and 400 mm for flexible automated part flow.
Extended Operations
Z-axis travel and dual-opposed architecture can support off-center machining in qualifying parts, including scroll-compressor style examples shown in the presentation.
Field-Proven Outcome
Deployed Systems
10+ installations across multiple customers
Operating Record
Running in live production for years
Switchover
Minutes to seconds
Operator Motion
Select part on HMI and press start
This is field performance from live customer plants, not a lab demo.
Interactive Deck
Flip Through the 8-Slide Sales Story
This deck is intentionally pared down for faster sales conversations: pain, mechanism, proof, and one clear next step. Use Storyboard view when we are refining the message and Presentation view when you need a clean sales walk-through.
Why This Wins Commercially
This is a throughput and cash-discipline decision, not a spec-sheet decision. Removing fixture-driven delays cuts setup friction, reduces avoidable WIP, and gives schedulers a faster response loop without adding headcount.
Contact Sales Engineering Team