Robotic Machining in Finland in the 2020s | Metecno Oy

Robotic Machining in Finland in the 2020s – Precision and Flexibility for Industry

13.10.2025

Robotic machining means the use of industrial robots in various machining processes such as milling, turning, threading, or cutting.

In practice, a machining tool – such as a spindle or other processing unit – is attached to the robot arm, after which the robot executes the machining path based on manually generated G-code or CAM-programmed toolpaths.

Robotic Machining Creates a Competitive Advantage

Compared to traditional multi-axis CNC machining centers, robotic machining offers a larger working envelope, more flexible programming, and the ability to combine machining with other processes such as part loading, welding, or coating.

For companies, robotic machining can mean:

  • More flexible production: one robot can perform multiple different tasks
  • Lower investment costs in certain applications compared to heavy CNC machines
  • Scalability: production capacity can be expanded step-by-step without major layout changes
  • The best solution for machining geometrically demanding parts

The main technological challenge of robotic machining has traditionally been accuracy and rigidity. In the 2020s, this challenge can now be solved with Siemens’ advanced technology.

6/7-axis robotic machining can therefore be the most competitive option for large and complex workpieces that are difficult to reach with conventional 5-axis CNC machines.

Siemens Brings CNC-Level Accuracy to Robotic Machining

In collaboration with Danobat and autonox, Siemens has developed the groundbreaking SINUMERIK Machine Tool Robot (MTR) technology, which brings the capabilities of a machining center into industrial robots.

The technology is based on Siemens SINUMERIK One control, known for its digital twin and powerful simulation capabilities.

SINUMERIK MTR takes robotic machining to a completely new level, offering:

  • 200–300% higher motion accuracy compared to standard industrial robots
  • 20–40% higher productivity in selected applications
  • Capability to machine hard materials such as steel, which have traditionally been too demanding for robots

What does this mean in practice? It means that robotic cells can now be deployed in production environments where previously only 5-axis CNC machines were considered suitable.

Robotic Partners – autonox, Comau and Danobat

Siemens is not alone in this development – well-known robotics industry partners are part of the ecosystem:

  • autonox Robotics has long been part of Siemens’ Run MyRobot ecosystem, and its robotic solutions are used worldwide. SINUMERIK MTR features can now be directly integrated into autonox robots.
    • Payload 100 kg, reach 2.4 m
  • Comau offers a wide range of robot options that can be seamlessly integrated into the SINUMERIK Run MyRobot environment.
  • Danobat introduces new robotic models designed for highly demanding applications:
    • Compact model: payload 200 kg, reach 2.8 m
    • Heavy-duty model: payload 520 kg, reach 3.3 m

These options allow the MTR technology to scale from the specific needs of medium-sized companies to the serial production environments of large industrial facilities.

Applications in Production

What kind of production benefits the most from robotic machining?

Robotic machining brings the greatest advantages to applications requiring both precision and flexibility. With Siemens’ MTR technology, robots can handle for example:

  • Beveling
  • Milling
  • Turning
  • Drilling
  • Finishing
  • Threading
  • Laser, flame and waterjet cutting
  • Plasma processes
  • Machining of composites, aluminum and steel
  • Multi-process cells where the robot performs both machining and part handling

In these operations, robotic machining can be not only cost-effective but also more flexible than performing the same tasks with a dedicated CNC machine.

Robots provide particular advantages in production environments where tasks would otherwise be physically demanding or hazardous for human operators.

Siemens SINUMERIK MTR offers superior path accuracy.

Path Accuracy Compensation as Standard with Siemens Technology

From a production manager’s or decision-maker’s perspective, the benefits of SINUMERIK MTR – and thus robotic machining – are clear:

  • Quality – improved path accuracy means fewer errors and fewer rejects
  • Speed – up to 40% faster production in selected processes reduces lead times
  • Flexibility – one robot can handle both machining and part manipulation, reducing the need for separate machines
  • Cost-efficiency – investment costs can be lower than traditional CNC solutions, especially when a robot serves multiple processes
  • Digital integration – SINUMERIK One enables a digital twin, facilitating production planning, simulation, and commissioning

Robotic Machining Ready for Production – How?

After years of development, robotic machining is now moving from the experimental stage to a real production-ready alternative in the 2020s.

To ensure the quality and consistency of robotic machining, the following are now available:

  • More advanced CAD/CAM software
  • Improved control technology
  • More rigid robot structures
  • Additional encoders
  • Compensation algorithms
    • gravity compensation
    • machining force compensation
    • position correction
  • Digital simulation

Metecno Oy is a Finnish manufacturer of special-purpose machines and the first company in Finland to introduce Siemens MTR technology to the manufacturing industry.

Our mission is to provide industry with the most advanced production technologies that eliminate obstacles to efficient, high-quality work.

Key Considerations

When comparing robotic machining and traditional CNC machines for your production needs, consider at least the following aspects:

  • Size of the workpiece and required accuracy
  • Forces acting on the tools
  • Different price and capability levels of robots

Even the best robotic machining solutions cannot reach the precision of a full-scale CNC machining center. On the other hand, they do not require an investment of the same magnitude.

However, companies considering a robotic machining investment do not need to determine these technical and economic aspects on their own. The most effective way to evaluate the feasibility of an investment is to discuss it with an experienced solution provider such as Metecno Oy.

Robotic Machining as a Digital Twin

Metecno also has the expertise to create a complete digital twin of your desired robotic machining application.

By testing the digital twin, your company can cost-effectively evaluate the feasibility and return on investment before physical implementation.

Based on your production layout and standard pre-engineering data, we can create a virtual model that provides both machining cycle times and payback time estimates.

The benefits of simulation are extensive: it prevents machine collisions, optimizes machining processes, reduces errors, and generates both time and cost savings.

First Presentation at Teknologia 25 Trade Fair

Welcome to meet us in person at the Teknologia 25 trade fair held at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre on November 4–6, 2025!

At the event, we will showcase robotic machining as a digital twin and are happy to discuss ideas for your company’s potential machining applications.

After the event, you can of course schedule a dedicated meeting with us to discuss robotic machining in more detail.

More Information

If this article sparked your interest and you’d like further consultation on robotic machining, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Our experts will be happy to answer your questions: sales@metecno.fi