Where Art & Tech Collide: Martin Guitars, Mazak, Renishaw Talk Friezing, Guitars

On Tuesday, Sept. 12^th from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., Martin & Co. is highlighting its collaboration with Mazak and Renishaw on the IMTS+ Main Stage. 

Martin & Co. is implementing an automated freizing process in its manufacturing of guitars, utilizing a Mazak three-axis Horizontal Machining Center (HMC), an external two-pallet part exchange system and a Renishaw metrology measuring probe. The computer-controlled machine is said to cut the channel in the guitar body for decorative bindings or inlays with minimal operator input. Prior to cutting via Mazak’s machine, Renishaw’s probe measures each guitar and converts the data into a path for the cutting tool to follow.

“It has been absolutely awesome,” says Lou Goffredo, engineering services manager at Martin & Co. “The cycle time has improved, the quality of the channel is better and the amount of filing required has been minimized. Our product looks better, and it’s more consistent. It is a true win-win.”

This collaboration is also being featured in an upcoming IMTS+ video series, Passion Project, which highlights connections between passions in technology/manufacturing and passions within the community. This episode, entitled “The Harmony of Art & Technology: HART” premieres in October 2024, with a trailer being shown at IMTS 2024.