Positioned as a safe entry into the CNC world for shops that haven't gone there yet, Felder’s Creator 950 is a compact, automated CNC machining center that fits into just 54 square feet.

Built in a vertical box, it machines panels horizontally for easier infeed and the company says it features more flexibility in handling larger panel sizes than some of its competitors. It can also be used as an additional machine to relieve the workload on other CNC machining centers. The creator 950 is a 2018 IWF Challengers Award recipient.

The company says a major feature of the Creator 950 is that no vacuum pods need to be positioned nor does it require console positioning of the panel. The machine also features an automated 4-tool changer that can handle aggregate heads and can offer options for drilling, routing, sizing, and dowel insertion.

With sensors automatically measuring workpieces on three axes, the Creator’s dual-grip movement of panels on the X-axis and vertical pressure rollers guide panels in consistently. The grips are driven individually and guided via a cambered toothed rack.

The creator features a second row of stops that allow for the handling of longer workpieces. A “Varius Drive” enables the dynamic clamping of the longer workpieces allowing them to be processed more quickly. Workpieces are unloaded at the rear of the machine.

Integrated with the most modern CNC technology experienced from a wide range of CNC machines offered by Felder’s Format-4 brand, the creator 950 is available in classic, advanced, premium, and d-complete models. With a variety of equipment options available, the machine can be adapted to individual requirements and challenges.

According to the company, the Format-4 technology offers fast and intuitively controllable programming by allowing an operator to create CNC machining programs while the graphical user interface offers three-dimensional representation of each input.

The machine’s drilling head and the 12kW main spindle, which allows for the processing of different materials, are continuously adjustable. The machine comes standard with a DH17 drilling head, but it can also be fitted with a DH25 drilling head. It comes standard with four sided formatting, and features an automatic tool length measurement system, which the company says increases productivity.