Unlock Productivity: The Advantages of a Midaco Trunnion-Based Automatic Pallet Changer

Hyfore Workholding
Oct 10
2 min read

In modern CNC machining operations, minimising spindle idle time and increasing throughput is critical. That’s why many advanced shops are turning to Midaco’s automatic pallet changers, with a trunnion system. Below are some of the standout benefits that such a system brings, especially when integrated into vertical machining centers (VMCs) or hybrid setups.

1. Dramatic Reduction in Downtime & Spindle Idle Time

Seamless part loading/unloading: Because the pallet changer can rotate (trunnion) and present the workpiece without needing to reorient or retool, load/unload cycles are faster and smoother.
Parallel operations: While the spindle is cutting on one fixture, another pallet can be prepared off to the side, ready to swap in instantly. This concurrency means less wasted machine time.
Productivity uplift: With Midaco's pallet changers you will see enhanced efficiencies which can boost productivity by more than 50%.

2. Versatility & Flexibility in Fixturing

Horizontal/vertical orientation with minimal fuss: You can add a 4th axis on a vertical machine (new or existing) with minimal cable management complexity and get many of the benefits of horizontal machining.
Better access to complex geometries: Trunnion rotation allows you to present parts at more favourable orientations to the cutting tool, reducing complexity in programming or tooling for angled faces.
Reduced re-fixturing: You don’t always need to remove and re-mount parts just to get better access; the system itself can orient the workpiece as needed for the next operation.

3. Improved Precision & Repeatability

Rigid docking and accurate registration: A well-designed trunnion system ensures the pallet is always seated precisely, maintaining consistent registration between cycles.
Minimised cumulative errors: Since there’s less re-fixturing, there are fewer sources of error creeping in, which helps maintain tighter tolerances over many cycles.

4. Scalability & Modularity

Multiple series options: Midaco offers multiple trunnion system series (e.g. Series 16, 30, 40, 50, 60) to match different sizes, payloads, and application demands.
Upgrades & retrofits: Because the trunnion system is an addable module, shops can upgrade existing automatic pallet changers or VMCs, rather than replacing the entire machine.
Future-proofing for automation: As you scale up automation (robotic loading, lights-out operation), the trunnion system is a natural fit for more flexible, continuous production.

5. Better Overall Throughput & Return on Investment

Higher machine utilisation: More cuts per shift, fewer idle minutes, and smoother handoffs between operations means your expensive CNC assets are more fully used.
Quicker payback: While the up-front investment is nontrivial, the gains in throughput and reduction in labour, or cycle, delays can deliver a solid ROI, especially in high-volume or high-mix environments.
Lower cost per part: With improved cycle efficiency and less time lost, your cost per piece goes down, which is critical in competitive manufacturing.

6. Simplified Cable/Tool Management

Minimal cable handling complications: Midaco’s design emphasises simplifying or eliminating complex cable-management challenges that often come with 4th-axis systems.
Reduced maintenance complexity: With fewer moving cable conduits or retraction systems, there’s less to maintain or fail over time.