Biesse’s CNC Flatbed Workshop brings operators together to share best practice and refine machine performance.
On January 29, Biesse hosted its first event of the year at its Daventry showroom. The CNC Flatbed Workshop proved a success, welcoming customers from across the UK to take part in a machinery re-bedding demonstration and one-to-one discussions with Biesse’s software training team and CNC experts.
The event was supported by tooling company EMST and supplier Palmer Timber. Designed to address ongoing industry challenges around resources and varying skill levels, the workshop aimed to bring operators up to speed regardless of experience, while encouraging the sharing of best practices from long-standing Biesse customers.
Many operators underestimate how much bedding quality directly affects cut quality and tool life. Even minimal differences in machine level or foundation stiffness can increase harmonic vibration at higher feed rates and accelerate spindle and linear guide wear. Training focused on re-bedding helps teams understand that machine accuracy starts below the machine.
As with technology advancements, the re-bedding process has also evolved over time leaving many companies following older less efficient ways to re-bed their CNC. During this event, Biesse engineers explained how the multi zone vacuum system on the Rover Multi Go N 2231 operates. Attendees learned how different vacuum zones can be opened or closed depending on part size, sheet layout and production needs. They also saw how correct zone selection improves hold down strength, reduces unnecessary airflow and prevents leaks. Understanding the multi zone layout helped participants appreciate why bung placement, gasket condition and drilling accuracy are essential to reliable vacuum performance.
The practical work began with removing the existing spoilsheet and carrying out a full inspection of the vacuum bed. This included a thorough clean down, checking the number and distribution of bungs, inspecting rubbers and seals, checking for vacuum leaks across the bed zones and confirming that the vacuum channels were clear. These checks demonstrated how each part of the vacuum system affects overall machining quality.
A new spoilsheet was then prepared. Before installation, it was surfaced on one side to remove board inconsistencies and establish a true reference face. Material suppliers explained how board quality and density influence long term stability and vacuum performance.
The group then moved on to drilling the vacuum pattern. This was one of the most valuable learning points. Customers were shown where to find the correct drilling programs on the machine, how to load them via BiesseWorks or bSolid, how to confirm that the program matched the Rover Multi Go N 2231 bed layout and how to visually check the pattern before running it. Tooling suppliers advised on the correct drill type, spindle speed and chip removal to achieve clean and accurate holes. Customers were also shown how to save, export and reuse these programs in their own workshops.
Once drilled, the new sheet was fixed in place using the correct torque and fastening sequence, ensuring flatness and preventing distortion. With the sheet secured, customers and Biesse operatives ran the initial surfacing pass together using the supplied surfacing program. This created the final, perfectly aligned surface ready for accurate machining.
The workshop reinforced Biesse’s commitment to supporting customers for the entire life of their machinery. These events are designed to help customers get the most from their equipment and strengthen their in‑house knowledge. Although spoilsheet replacement appears simple, it plays a major role in maintaining accuracy, vacuum performance and machine reliability. Thanks to this workshop, supported by material providers, tooling suppliers and Biesse operatives, attendees now have the experience and confidence to complete the process correctly and safely.
Biesse is proud to support operators and owners in protecting their machine performance, production quality and long‑term investment. Keep an eye out on our website to see more events at our UK Showroom.
