In the world of panel processing, joinery, and woodworking, precision, efficiency, and flexibility are key to meeting tight deadlines and delivering high-quality results. Panel & Joinery Production spoke with Richard Ilendo, Managing Director of Rai Developments, to explore how the Holz-Her Evolution 7402 is transforming production capabilities.
Designed to maximise efficiency in workshops of all sizes, the Evolution 7402 features full four-sided panel formatting, back wall grooving, and precision drilling for connectors, all within a compact footprint of less than five square metres. This allows manufacturers to optimise space without compromising on performance.
The machine’s versatile operation modes support both one-person workflow efficiency and continuous production for high-volume output. Whether producing cabinetry, interior joinery, furniture components, or bespoke architectural features, the Evolution 7402 offers seamless adaptability to diverse manufacturing needs.
Holz-Her’s stable roller conveyors and preset in-feed tables ensure smooth handling of workpieces ranging from large panels up to 2,500mm (without additional supports) x 920mm to delicate components (as small as 200mm x 70mm x 8mm). The Ecovacs system enhances material protection while optimising energy efficiency, and the adjustable vacuum system securely holds panels of varying thicknesses, including solid surfaces and composites, for pinpoint accuracy.
Richard said “For our clients, timely delivery is just as critical as precision, and extending the timeline by a year simply isn’t an option. Purchasing the Evolution 7402 has enabled Rai Developments to keep everything in-house, we have full control over production schedules, ensuring efficiency and quality without compromise.”
Beyond standard panel cutting and drilling, the Evolution 7402 enables Rai Developments to manufacture intricate joinery elements, from doors with concealed hinges to complex timber grilles, custom furniture, and architectural panels. Its advanced drill head supports both horizontal and vertical drilling, also, grooving, while an optional XL drill head further expands machining capabilities. The robust 10.3 KW HSK electro-spindle is served by a 4 position automatic tool changer.
“The machine is incredibly flexible,” Richard notes. “Once you start experimenting, you find new ways to use it that go beyond the standard instruction manual, opening up new production possibilities.”
Holz-Her integrates cutting-edge CNC software solutions to simplify programming and reduce errors. The CAMPUS software package offers pre-tested macros for effortless operation, while the ‘easy snaps’ function ensures accurate programming reference points, minimising material waste. Additionally, a laser plausibility check verifies workpiece dimensions, reducing operator errors and increasing overall efficiency.
Richard added “Training and learning were key to fully unlocking the machine’s potential. The team quickly realised that mastering macros significantly boosted efficiency” continued Richard “Once we developed macros for creating drawers, a task that used to take hours was reduced to just ten minutes. The ability to create macros and automate repetitive processes has been a massive time-saver
The Evolution 7402 also features an open interface, allowing seamless CAD/CAM data transfer for streamlined production, whether manufacturing custom kitchens, large-scale interior fit-outs, or bespoke furniture.
Unlike traditional vertical CNC machines that rely on grippers, the Holz-Her vacuum cup system eliminates exclusion zones and allows for one-step sizing with maximum precision. As a result, formatting on all four sides of a component is a standard feature.
“Holz-Her’s vacuum-based clamping system is unmatched. Richard explains. “Other machines use grippers, which come with severe limitations. With Holz-Her, you can securely hold materials in place without compromising precision. I researched extensively, and no other manufacturer does it like this.”.
This flexibility allowed Rai Developments to take on unique, large-scale projects, including the production of 130 individually shaped timber fins for a ceiling installation, creating a wave effect. The Evolution uses an automatic re-clamping process, a standard feature, the X machining dimension is infinite.
“We machined 130 unique, six-metre-long timber fins, each shaped differently to create the wave effect. This project alone covered nearly half of the machine’s cost.” Explained Richard.
Bringing the Holz-Her Evolution 7402 in-house has transformed Rai Developments’ production capabilities, giving them the flexibility and control to take on intricate, high-value commissions with confidence.
Richard concluded “We’re very happy with the Evolution 7402, it has increased our efficiency, expanded our project scope, and given us a competitive edge in the woodworking industry.”
For businesses in panel processing, joinery, and woodworking, investing in technology like the Holz-Her Evolution 7402 means unlocking new levels of productivity, precision, and creative potential, ensuring that they can stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.
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