Subcontractor invests in first five-axis machining centre

When Andy Battensby and Dale Robson launched North Axis Engineering in Cramlington, Northumberland to fill a gap in the northeast for high-precision, quick-turnaround subcontract work targeting the subsea, aerospace and automotive sectors, the owner-directors could hardly have predicted the pace at which their new venture would accelerate. Yet just a short time later, the company’s growth tells a story not only of ambition, but of calculated investment and deep-rooted expertise.

North Axis was founded on a clear and focused vision: to deliver a responsive, versatile machining service capable of producing precise, high-quality components, whether one-offs, small batches or large production runs. For the directors, investing in the right CNC technology was non-negotiable. Even within the constraints of a start-up budget, they understood that reliability, accuracy and ease of use would be critical. Having worked extensively with Hurco equipment in the past, they knew where to turn.

The business opened its doors at the start of 2025 equipped with a used Hurco VM10i three-axis machining centre and a TM8i CNC lathe. Compact yet powerful, the VM10i offers high metal removal rates and the performance of a machine that would normally occupy a larger footprint on the shop floor. The TM8i, with its 2-inch bar capacity and maximum turning length of 525 mm, provides robust and accurate turning capability. Central to both machines is Hurco’s intuitive Max5 control, enabling rapid programming, reduced set-up times and swift progression to first-off components, which is an essential advantage in subcontract environments.

By March 2025, demand had justified further expansion. To broaden its machining capabilities, North Axis purchased a new Hurco VM30i directly from the manufacturer, complete with the supplier’s own H200 rotary table. With generous travels of 1270 x 508 x 508 mm, the VM30i accommodates larger components, while the integrated fourth axis opens the door to more complex rotary work and efficient second operations on turned parts. Hurco’s conversational programming for the rotary axis ensures that increased capability does not come at the expense of simplicity.

North Axis has also positioned itself as more than a machining services provider. CADCAM programming, MIG and TIG welding, and a range of engineering and fabrication services sit comfortably within its expanding portfolio. This breadth allows the company to respond flexibly to customer requirements and strengthens its role as a trusted manufacturing partner.

However, it’s the next step in the company’s journey that signals its boldest move yet. With efficiency and single-hit machining increasingly a priority, North Axis confirmed the purchase of a five-axis VM10Ui at Hurco’s year-end open house last December. For a business barely a year old, the decision speaks volumes about the directors’ confidence and forward planning.

“We’re delighted to be investing in our first five-axis machine within our first year of operation,” states Dale. “We already have work lined up that requires simultaneous five-axis cycles. As we’re so familiar with Hurco machines, we know the learning curve will be quick and we’re excited to get started.”

Strategic investment in optimal technology propelled North Axis Engineering through a remarkable first year. With new projects on the horizon throughout 2026 and a clear commitment to capability-led growth, the trajectory appears set. If the company’s early momentum is anything to go by, North Axis is only just beginning its ascent.