The Homag Group has recently introduced a series of innovations covering different areas of wood processing: from CNC units developed by Benz Tooling, the group’s brand specializing in heads and components for numerically controlled machines, to Kallesoe’s solutions focused on solid and structural timber. Heterogeneous innovations, yet united by the goal of making production processes faster, more precise, and more efficient, meeting the needs of both companies working in panel processing and producers of structural elements in engineered wood.
BENZ Tooling: compactness and precision
The first area of development concerns the world of CNC machines. “Smart Nesting” is one of the latest new products presented: a unit that enables horizontal drilling and milling in extremely tight spaces. In many furniture and furnishing component processes, the ability to work directly on grooves and recesses without repositioning the piece is a tangible advantage. With a spindle speed of up to 20,000 revolutions per minute and a torque of two Newton meters, the head makes it possible to complete multiple operations in a single clamping, improving dimensional accuracy. Added to this is the integration of a blow nozzle that cleans the seat and removes residues after drilling, reducing the need for manual operations. The compact design allows it to be used on all tool holders with unit attachment, making it easily integrable even in already operational machine parks.
The “Soffiaro” unit addresses another concrete issue: the management of machining residues and compressed air. In companies, costs related to air consumption are far from marginal, and the ability to regulate the flow directly on the unit allows for significant energy savings. The combination of collets and hydraulic chucks expands the range of possible applications, while the 40 percent shorter structure compared to previous versions helps reduce vibrations and wear. The adoption of ceramic bearings, more durable and long-lasting, demonstrates the focus on equipment lifecycle, an increasingly relevant aspect in keeping maintenance costs under control.
For mortising operations, Benz offers the new “Cateno F” unit, which makes it possible to create deep or shallow pockets using a chain. The real innovation lies in the automatic tensioning system, which eliminates the need for additional lubrication: a solution that reduces manual interventions, improves the cleanliness of the pieces, and avoids the risk of surface contamination. This feature addresses the need for more linear and repeatable processes, especially in productions requiring high quality standards.
Completing the Benz picture is “i.tag,” a digital tag based on NFC (near field communication) technology that enables direct access to product data from a smartphone or tablet. The operator can consult manuals, technical sheets, or initiate contact with customer support without the need for additional software. It is a practical tool that promotes internal digitization, reduces paper documentation, and better integrates information into the daily workflow.
KALLESOE: automation and structural timber
Alongside Benz’s CNC units, Homag also presented new solutions from Kallesoe, a brand specializing in solid wood systems. The growth of the cross laminated timber (CLT) and glued laminated timber (BSH/glulam) market is driving many manufacturers to invest in automated lines and technologies capable of ensuring productivity and consistent quality.
Kallesoe announced the use of high-frequency pressing, a technology that allows for shorter heating times, resulting in increased production capacity. This approach reduces cycle times and makes it possible to obtain panels and beams with uniform quality—essential characteristics for a rapidly expanding market such as timber construction.
Among the new developments presented, the 400 kW generator represents a significant step compared to the already widespread 200 kW models: the higher power reduces pressing times by up to 50 percent, with a direct impact on the productivity of CLT lines. The interesting aspect is the ease of integration: the new generator can replace existing models without substantial modifications to the plants, requiring only minor adjustments to the control system. In this way, even those who already have an operational line can benefit from an upgrade with minimal downtime.
DIGITALIZATION AND VIRTUAL SUPPORT
Both Benz and Kallesoe are also focusing on digital tools to support processes. On the one hand, the “i.tag” tag simplifies the management of technical information related to tools, while on the other, Kallesoe offers virtual showrooms where lines and machines can be explored immersively. This type of tool reduces evaluation times, allows customers to better understand the available configurations, and supports sales engineers in proposing solutions closer to actual production needs.
