Established in 2008, The CNC Factory has been providing high-quality CNC cutting, routing, and milling solutions to a growing client base, initially focusing on the Film and TV industry near Pinewood Studios. With over 20 years of combined experience, the team has expanded its services to offer a full range of CNC solutions across the UK. Their success is built on a commitment to quality, flexibility, and professional yet personable service.

In partnership with Vixen Surface Treatments, The CNC Factory has adopted Saint-Gobain Zirgrit® AZ to enhance its surface finishing capabilities, particularly for the film industry’s 3D-printed epoxy parts.

The Challenge

For years, The CNC Factory has been the go-to provider for high-precision prototype parts, particularly for the film industry. With a focus on custom CNC machining of materials like polystyrene, acrylics, and composites, their work often involves intricate designs that require flawless surface finishes. Traditional abrasives, such as Aluminium Oxide, didn’t entirely meet their needs in delivering consistent, high-quality results.

Challenges included: 

- Short Lifespan: Frequent abrasive replacement disrupted workflows. 

- Inconsistent Results: Difficulties achieving both a smooth finish with high pressure and a properly keyed surface for paint adhesion. 

- High Consumption: Increased material waste drove up environmental impact.

The CNC Factory needed an abrasive that could provide consistent finishes, create a keyed surface for superior paint bonding, and enhance efficiency.

The Solution: Saint-Gobain Zirgrit® AZ

Through Vixen Surface Treatments, The CNC Factory adopted Saint-Gobain Zirgrit® AZ, a superior abrasive that delivers high performance across a range of materials. Zirgrit® AZ’s benefits include: 

- Unmatched Durability: Lasts up to 10 times longer than aluminum oxide, minimizing downtime and reducing costs. 

- Enhanced Surface Quality: Delivers a smooth finish while simultaneously creating a keyed texture ideal for paint adhesion. 

- Waste Reduction: Lower consumption rates contributed to sustainable operations. 

Results

The adoption of Zirgrit® AZ yielded significant benefits: 

- Improved Paint Bonding: The keyed surface enabled better paint application and adhesion, ensuring durable and professional finishes. 

- Superior Aesthetics: Finished parts exhibited exceptional smoothness, meeting the stringent visual standards of film production. 

- Operational Efficiencies: Reduced abrasive consumption and machine downtime streamlined processes and cut costs. 

Why Choose Vixen Surface Treatments?

Vixen Surface Treatments are the sole UK reseller of Saint-Gobain Zirgrit® AZ, providing premium surface finishing solutions to industries worldwide. By partnering with Vixen, businesses gain access to: 

- Expert Guidance: With over 35 years of expertise in surface treatment technologies, Vixen offers tailored recommendations to help businesses select the ideal solutions for their specific needs. 

- Premium Products: As a distributor of high-quality materials like Zirgrit® AZ, Vixen ensures reliability, efficiency, and superior results in every application. 

- Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to ongoing technical assistance, Vixen’s team is committed to helping businesses optimize their processes and achieve maximum performance. 

- Sustainability Leadership: Vixen promotes environmentally conscious solutions, like Zirgrit® AZ, that reduce waste and support sustainable practices in manufacturing. 

- Proven Track Record: With a portfolio of satisfied clients across industries, Vixen is the go-to partner for businesses looking to elevate their surface finishing operations.

By choosing Vixen Surface Treatments, companies like The CNC Factory not only access cutting-edge products like Saint-Gobain Zirgrit® AZ but also benefit from unmatched expertise and support to enhance their productivity and quality.

For more information about Saint-Gobain Ceramic Abrasive and how it can enhance your operations, contact Vixen Surface Treatments today.

abrasives@vixen.co.uk