When size and precision matter equally
When a 3-metre automotive master model needs to be machined, or a complex aluminium RTM mould must be milled, conventional CNC machines reach their limit. Multiple re-clampings, positioning errors, long setup times – and ultimately a part that is “almost” right.
Carbon Composites’ Zimmermann FZ-35 gantry mill makes no compromises. The 5-axis technology allows complex geometries to be produced in a single setup, with automotive-grade precision.
The VW Amarok hardtop master model, for example, contains complex curved surfaces, undercuts and precision mating points – with a conventional machine it would have required 4–5 re-clampings. On the FZ-35 it was completed in a single setup at ±0.05 mm accuracy.
Capacity in numbers
| Capacity | Zimmermann FZ-35 | Typical 3-axis |
|---|---|---|
| Work envelope | 3500 × 2000 × 1200 mm | 1000 × 600 × 500 mm |
| Positioning accuracy | ±0.05 mm | ±0.1 mm |
| Spindle | 24,000 RPM, 40 kW | 12,000 RPM |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg | 300 kg |
| Single-setup machining | ✓ Complex geometries | ✗ Simple only |
How We Work
CAD intake and manufacturability analysis
Send your 3D model (STEP, IGES, CATIA V5) – our engineers will respond within 24 hours: can it be machined in a single setup, estimated cycle time and cost.
CAM programming in Cimatron NC Solution
Engineering optimisation: collision checking via virtual simulation, adaptive roughing to minimise wear, flowline-following strategy for curved surfaces.
Machining and monitoring
The Zimmermann FZ-35 features integrated vibration damping and direct measuring systems on all axes, ensuring stable machining conditions.
3D measurement and documentation
Every part is checked with a 3D coordinate measuring machine: CAD comparison, colour-coded deviation map, measurement report.
What is 5-axis CNC milling?
For detailed information about the technology, the Zimmermann FZ-35 technical specifications, machinable materials, the CAD/CAM process and milling strategies, see the 5-axis CNC technology guide.
Our CNC Machine Park
Zimmermann FZ-35 Gantry Mill
A rarity even in Germany: a 3.5-metre work-envelope 5-axis gantry mill that works at ±0.05 mm accuracy. The gantry construction provides rigidity for large parts. The 5 axes (X, Y, Z + 2 rotary axes) enable complex geometries to be machined in a single setup.
- Large-scale master model production (up to 3.5 m)
- Milling of aluminium RTM moulds
- Composite part trimming without delamination
- Complex geometries in a single setup
- Railway panel machining
- Automotive master models and tooling
- 5-axis simultaneous milling
- Integrated vibration damping and measuring systems
Cimatron NC Solution
Professional CAM system for generating optimised toolpaths. Real-time collision checking simulation, adaptive roughing to minimise wear, flowline-following finishing strategies for curved surfaces. 24-hour turnaround on CAD models with manufacturability analysis.
- CAD model intake and manufacturability analysis
- 5-axis simultaneous toolpath generation
- Adaptive roughing to minimise tool wear
- Flowline-following finishing for curved surfaces
- Real-time collision checking simulation
- Cycle time and cost estimation
- NC code generation for Zimmermann FZ-35
- Documented quality: simulation video, NC code
Zimmermann FZ-35 – Close-up Detail
The Zimmermann FZ-35 gantry mill enables 5-axis simultaneous machining, allowing complex geometries to be produced in a single setup.
Why Carbon Composites for CNC machining?
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30+ years of composite specialist experience
We have been working with carbon and glass fibre materials since 1992. We know how to prevent delamination and matrix cracking. Automotive-grade precision in composite machining.
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A rare capacity even in Central Europe
The Zimmermann FZ-35 gantry mill's 3.5-metre work envelope is unique in the region. Large-scale master models, aluminium moulds and composite parts in a single setup.
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From master model to mould – all under one roof
No need to coordinate 3–4 suppliers. CNC machining is part of the full process: master model → mould → RTM production → painting. Full vertical integration.
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24-hour turnaround on CAD models
Send your STEP file – our engineers respond with manufacturability analysis and quotation. Toolpaths optimised with Cimatron NC Solution CAM system.
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Documented quality and certifications
3D measurement report with every part, CAD comparison. ISO 9001:2015, EN 45545 railway fire protection, customer-specific audits (VW, MAN, Daimler).
Frequently asked questions
5-axis CNC machining with the Zimmermann FZ-35 gantry mill enables precision production of large-scale master models, aluminium moulds and composite parts up to 3500×2000×1200 mm at ±0.05 mm accuracy. The 5 axes (X, Y, Z + 2 rotary axes) allow complex geometries to be machined in a single setup.
The Zimmermann FZ-35 work envelope is 3500 × 2000 × 1200 mm, up to 2-tonne workpiece weight. This enables large automotive master models, railway elements and industrial moulds to be machined in a single setup.
We achieve ±0.05 mm positioning accuracy and ±0.02 mm repeatability. 5-axis simultaneous milling enables complex spatial surfaces to be machined without undercuts, with excellent surface quality.
Simple master model (1×1 m): 8–16 hours. Medium (2×1.5 m): 20–40 hours. Large, complex master model (3×2 m): 40–80 hours. CAD/CAM programming takes 1–3 days.
Model foams (PU, EPS, XPS), aluminium (moulds, master models), composite parts (trimming, drilling), plastics and wood. We use optimised tools and parameters for each material.