BKB Precision is investing in the future of quality with the new ZEISS Smartzoom 100
Every detail in sharp focus
Whereas carefully inspecting and checking products during post-processing used to take a lot of time and effort, the Zeiss Smartzoom 100 now makes this process faster and more precise. The microscope offers up to 25x optical zoom and ample workspace to maintain a clear view of the details even during deburring. The autofocus ensures a razor-sharp image at all times, and thanks to the 4K live feed, our specialists can see exactly what’s happening in real time, without any delay. The result: more efficient inspections and greater control over quality, down to the smallest detail.
From Customer Requirement to Work Instruction
At BKB Precision, we use this microscope particularly for very high-quality and complex products where customers have specific requirements for a burr-free finish under magnification.
Thanks to its sharp image quality, even the smallest deviations become visible—deviations that were previously difficult or even impossible to assess with the naked eye. In addition, we can use the microscope to take photos directly and add them to our work instructions. This allows us to clearly define acceptance and rejection criteria, ensuring greater consistency in on-the-shop-floor assessments.
Assurance for the most critical products
This investment makes a significant difference, especially for customers in the analytical, semiconductor, or medical sectors, where accuracy is not a preference but a requirement. Because we can monitor quality more precisely and better demonstrate how that monitoring is conducted, we provide greater assurance and reduce the risk of deviations. It is precisely this combination of higher quality and demonstrable assurance that customers immediately notice.
Investing in Specialization
This investment aligns perfectly with BKB Precision’s ambition to focus even more strongly on complex and critical plastic products.
With the ZEISS Smartzoom 100, we are strengthening our position as the leading specialist in high-quality plastic machining and continuing to develop reliable solutions for customers with the most demanding requirements.
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Why are transparent prototypes essential for complex plastic parts?
The Challenge of Internal Channels
With complex manifolds, the greatest risk often lies in the least visible place: the internal channel structure. These channels must not only run correctly but also fully comply with the specified requirements and tolerances. Because many manifolds are ultimately manufactured from high-performance plastics such as PEEK, these internal details are no longer visible after production. As a result, inspecting the internal geometry poses a significant challenge within the manufacturing process.
The Step Between Design and Final Product
The solution lies in the transparency of PMMA. Because all internal channels are visible, we can accurately assess whether the manifold is being produced as intended. We verify that the channel structures run correctly, meet the specified tolerances, and are neatly finished.
Any deviations become immediately apparent and can be corrected before the part goes into production. The most important benefit of this is not a shorter lead time or lower costs, but certainty. Once the PMMA prototype fully meets the customer’s requirements and specifications, the part is produced in the final material. This allows us to minimize risks and deliver a product whose quality has been proven in advance.
The Right Plastic at the Right Time
Within this process, PMMA and PEEK each play their own role. Thanks to its transparency, PMMA allows for the complete inspection and validation of internal channel structures. PEEK is then used because of its excellent performance under high temperatures, chemical exposure, and demanding operating conditions. By first ensuring quality with PMMA and then manufacturing with PEEK, we combine the best of both materials and can optimally guarantee the quality of the final product.
Working Together to Deliver a Reliable Final Product
At BKB Precision, we believe that quality begins before a product is actually put into use. That is why, when it comes to new manifolds, we make a conscious decision to validate first and then produce. By fully mapping out internal structures in advance, we ensure maximum control during the development process and minimize risks during final production. This way, we not only deliver a part that matches the drawing, but more importantly, we provide the assurance that the part will function as intended.
Do you face a challenge involving complex plastic components or manifolds? Contact our specialists. We’d be happy to discuss how we can translate your design into a reliable, high-quality end product.
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BKB Precision Group Presents the 2025 Sustainability Report
Progress on Key Themes
Over the past year, we have taken further steps across various fronts within the BKB Precision Group to make our organization more sustainable. For instance, we have worked on reducing our CO2 emissions, using energy more efficiently, and strengthening circularity in our processes.
In addition, the safety of our employees, innovation, and good governance continue to play an important role in our development, all of which you can read about in the new report.
From Ambition to Concrete Actions
Within the group, sustainability is translated into concrete actions by integrating it into the way we work, make decisions, and improve our processes. In practice, this means that initiatives originate from the shop floor and production environments, where employees can directly see how efficiency and sustainability go hand in hand.
These improvements are then structurally embedded and shared within the group, ensuring that sustainable progress continues to develop. As a result, sustainability is not a “standalone project,” but a continuous improvement effort involving the entire team.
View the report
The BKB Precision Group Sustainability Report 2025 is now available and can be downloaded from our website. In the report, we provide detailed insight into our approach, results, and objectives in the area of sustainability. Read the full report and discover how we are working step by step to make our organization more sustainable.
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BKB Precision invests in precision with new Hermle C42 machines
Technological Advancements
With the introduction of the Hermle C42 machines, we are also taking a significant step forward in automation. Whereas previously only pallet handling was possible, we can now utilize both product and pallet handling thanks to an upgraded robot. Combined with the machines’ higher precision and faster machining times, this results in a more efficient and flexible production process.
What does this mean for our customers?
For our customers, this investment means a further enhancement of the service they have come to expect from us. Shorter lead times, increased capacity, and even greater delivery reliability ensure that we can continue to respond flexibly to a wide range of customer needs. In this way, we remain a stable and forward-looking partner in precision manufacturing and create the conditions to grow alongside our customers’ ambitions.
Looking to the future
“With this step, we are not only investing in technology, but above all in the peace of mind we want to offer our customers,” says Sales Director Berrie van de Burgt. “We are constantly evolving to remain at the forefront of plastics processing, with a specific focus on quality and reliability.” Curious about what these machines can do for your projects? Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation consultation on all the possibilities.
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Trends and developments for 2026 in the plastic machining market
Looking back: trends and developments in plastic machining in 2025
In 2025, it became clear that the plastic machining market was entering a phase of maturity. This was evident from, among other things, the arrival of various new entrants and the growth of specialisms. However, innovations in the field of bonding, the continued development from metal to plastic, digitization, and sustainability also ensured that existing companies in this market continued to innovate. This resulted in more opportunities with regard to plastic processing. These trends are explained in more detail in our blog article on the trends and developments of 2025 and form an important basis for developments towards 2026.
Trend 1: Specialization & extra value-added services
By 2026, the role of plastic machining companies will shift even further and more frequently from supplier to chain partner. Customers expect not only accurately milled or turned parts, but complete solutions that go beyond the machining process alone.
The integration of bonding, assembly, and other preparatory processes within a single chain is becoming increasingly common. At the same time, there is also increasing demand for hybrid production methods, in which machining is combined with additive manufacturing, for example. This is easier said than done. Discover how we at BKB Precision recently achieved this with extreme precision for a high-end customer in the high-tech industry.
Trend 2: Increased use of high-performance plastics in the defense industry
By 2026, the defense industry will have developed into an important growth market for high-performance plastics. Due to stricter requirements in terms of weight, durability, and functionality, metal components are increasingly being replaced by high-quality plastics such as PEEK and PEI. These materials not only offer technical advantages, but also contribute to design freedom and functional integration.
For plastics machining companies, this means an increasing need for in-depth material expertise, process reliability, and quality assurance in order to meet the high demands of this sector.
Trend 3: AI and smart machining are in their infancy
Although AI and smart machining will not yet be commonplace in the plastics machining market in 2026, they do mark the beginning of a fundamental change. Current applications focus primarily on insight and support, but already demonstrate the potential of this technology for process control and quality.
As systems mature, AI-driven processes will play an increasingly important role in efficient and scalable production. The use of AI is also increasing creativity in the machining process. Early adoption and experimentation are therefore an important step towards future-proof machining.
Trend 4: Sustainability and circular machining
Sustainability and circular machining will continue to play a role in 2026. Within the market, this will certainly remain a key pillar in the coming years, with increasing demand for demonstrable sustainability, requiring organizations to be able to substantiate their CO₂ impact per product and process. This development makes sustainability a distinguishing factor and a strategic competitive advantage.
Circular thinking is no longer limited to the choice of materials, but extends across the entire production process. The structural reuse of plastic waste streams, investment in energy-efficient machines, and the use of minimal or dry machining are important developments in this regard.
At BKB Precision, we have also been working on this for a number of years and will be publishing our third sustainability report in Q2, which will detail exactly where we stand on this issue. It will also outline the steps we still need to take and will be taking to become even more sustainable.
In 2025, we will also have set up a reuse process for a single customer, but for multiple items, whereby we reassess, repair, and clean the items we produce for a new round of use.
Trend 5: International expansion and scalability
International diversification will become an increasingly important building block for sustainable growth in 2026. The establishment of a branch in Malaysia is therefore an important step in the international growth strategy of the BKB Precision group. This expansion contributes to risk diversification and increases the agility of the organization.
At the same time, there will be a strong focus on more intensive collaboration within the group in the coming year. By making better use of capacity, knowledge, and resources across the various locations, the different branches within the group will be able to provide their customers with even better support in terms of flexibility, delivery reliability, and scalability. Manufacturing the product where the price-quality ratio is optimal for the customer.
Ready for the future of plastic machining
As we approach 2026, it is becoming clear that success in the plastic machining market requires more than just technical expertise. Sustainability, specialization, smart technology, and international cooperation together form the building blocks for further growth. Would you like to discover how BKB Precision is leveraging these trends to optimize your production processes? Contact us and talk to our specialists.
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Ready for the future: The new BKB Precision website is live!
A website that reflects our core values
BKB Precision’s old website no longer met expectations: it was slow, complicated, and technically outdated. This was at odds with our core values of precision and customer focus. That is why we made a conscious decision to invest in a fresh, new online environment, so that we can offer our visitors a modern, fast, and user-friendly experience.
Improved, accelerated, simplified
From now on, you can navigate to the information that is relevant to you even faster and more easily. The structure of the website is clearer, the loading time has been reduced, and the display on mobile devices has been greatly improved. Contacting us or requesting a quote is now also hassle-free thanks to user-friendly forms. Use the button below to contact us directly. We would love to hear what you think of our revamped website!
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Plastics machining as a key technology in the medical manufacturing industry
Why plastic? The real advantages for medical applications
Medical innovators don’t choose plastic just because. They do so because it offers solutions that are simply not feasible with metal or glass.
- Lightweight and strong
Ideal for portable equipment and ergonomic instruments. - Chemically and thermally resistant
Resistant to intensive cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization. - Design freedom
Complex geometries, microchannels, and optical surfaces are possible—opening the door to new product concepts. - Cost and process advantages
Plastics can be processed extremely quickly, with excellent reproducibility.
The critical factor: precision
In the medical world, “close enough” is simply not good enough.
A deviation of just a few micrometers can lead to leaks in microfluidics, inaccurate sample analysis, or mechanical failure.
Modern CNC plastic machining makes tolerances achievable that were previously considered impossible. Combined with advanced measurement methods and ISO-compliant production, this creates a manufacturing process that focuses on traceability, stability, and certainty.
Innovation & sustainability: the new standard
The medical sector demands sustainable, traceable production. Recycled and bio-based plastics are becoming increasingly easier to machine and are increasingly being approved for use in medical equipment.
Materials that were considered “too unstable” five years ago are now of sufficient quality for precision machining. This is giving rise to a new generation of components that are both technically and ecologically future-proof. If you would like to know more about the applications and possibilities of plastics, please feel free to contact us.
Material selection and applications: what works where?
The right plastic directly determines the performance of medical equipment. An overview of the most commonly used materials and their typical applications:
- PEEK
Strong, biocompatible, sterilizable → suitable for surgical components, support structures, and high-end analyzers. - POM
Low friction, highly dimensionally stable → ideal for valves, bearings, gears, and other moving parts. - PET
Extremely dimensionally stable → suitable for flow cells, optical chambers, measuring modules, and precision housings. - HMPE
Wear-resistant and self-lubricating → used for slide guides, guide plates, and moving laboratory parts.
By linking the application to the right material during the design phase, you can prevent problems such as stress cracks, deformation, or inaccurate measurements—and increase the reliability of the entire system.
Plastics machining is more than just a production technique
It is a strategic technology that determines how innovative, precise, and future-proof medical equipment can be. Choosing the right plastics, the right processing technique, and the right partner who understands the market gives you a competitive edge in a rapidly changing market.
Would you like advice on material selection, precision processing, or sustainable alternatives? Feel free to contact us without obligation.
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BKB Precision invests in two new Mazak VTC-800 milling machines
Modernization and future-oriented investment
At BKB Precision, we naturally consider it important to have high-quality, up-to-date machinery. Only in this way can we continue to meet our customers’ highest expectations. The high-tech manufacturing industry is developing rapidly, and in order to continue to meet this growing demand, we regularly invest in the latest technologies.
With the arrival of the two Mazak VTC-800 milling machines, we are not only strengthening our production capacity, but also the reliability and continuity we offer our customers.
From loyal service to technological innovation
With the arrival of the Mazak VTC-800 milling machines, we are significantly expanding our technical capabilities. The addition of a 4th axis on both machines makes it possible to mill plastic parts from multiple sides in a single operation. This results in fewer operations, higher process reliability, and consistent quality.
What’s more, after years of loyal service, the previous milling machines were due for replacement. With this investment, we are taking our productivity and precision to a higher level.
Facing the future with renewed strength
Following their successful installation, the new Mazak VTC-800 milling machines are now running at full speed. With this investment, we are taking another step forward toward the future. A future in which quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction go hand in hand. Are you curious about what this expansion could mean for your project? Please feel free to contact us.
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Modernisation of the Machinery: Hermle C22s Make Way for C32s
Upgrading Our Machinery
At BKB Precision, we recently took a significant step towards modernisation: two outdated Hermle C22 milling machines were removed and replaced by two state-of-the-art Hermle C32 machines. During this upgrade, we also treated the production floor in that area with a new coating to protect it against wear and chemicals. This makes the workspace safer, more durable, and easier to maintain.
The entire process—from dismantling and floor treatment to installation—was completed smoothly within just four weeks. The new 5-axis milling machines have been successfully tested and are currently going through a precise release process before being fully integrated into our regular production.
From Pallet Changer to Robotic Arm
The new 5-axis C32 milling machines are equipped with an RS1 robot for automated product changes, enabling 24/7 unmanned production. This offers far more possibilities than the older C22 machines, which still relied on a pallet-changing system.
“Thanks to the new C32s, we’re using our space much more efficiently. Although we replaced two machines with two new ones, we’ve created room and standardisation that will allow us to scale up more easily in the future. And all that with higher speed, better precision, and greater versatility,” says Sales Director Van de Burgt.
By choosing Hermle’s C32 machines, we maintain uniformity in our machinery. This ensures that our team’s expertise seamlessly transfers, allowing for a smooth transition in daily operations.
Looking Ahead
“Even in challenging market conditions, BKB Precision continues to invest in the latest technologies,” says Van de Burgt. “Because standing still means falling behind. We are committed to building a future-proof machine park so we can continue to guarantee the highest quality and delivery reliability to our clients.”
And the investments don’t stop with the replacement of the C22 machines. Additional new machines are on the way and will be installed later this year. Stay updated via our news page or social media channels.
Curious what these developments mean for your project? Feel free to contact us, we’re happy to think along with you.
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BKB Precision Group publishes Sustainability Report 2024 on World Environment Day
Why transparency and sustainability are at the heart of the BKB Precision Group
As pioneers in our field, we believe that sharing this report and related sustainability efforts not only demonstrates our commitment, but also inspires others to move in the same direction. We are committed to sustainability, not only because it is necessary, but because we believe it will define the future of our field.
By sharing our progress and challenges, we hope not only to increase our own impact, but also to encourage a broad network of companies and organizations to join us. As such, this report is more than a review of our accomplishments.
What to expect: The key themes in our Sustainability Report 2024
In our Sustainability Report 2024, we again focus on the three pillars: Environment, Social and Governance (ESG). We share our progress in reducing our environmental impact, supporting employees and communities, and strengthening our governance. The report provides a transparent overview of our achievements, goals and the steps we continue to take to make a positive impact.
View the BKB Precision Group Sustainability Report 2024
Within the BKB Precision Group, we are of course aware that we have already made great strides, but also that the work is not yet done. Our Sustainability Report 2024 provides a clear overview of our achievements as well as the goals we still want to achieve. The report offers valuable insights into how we as BKB Precision Group continue to work towards a more sustainable and transparent future, with concrete actions that contribute to a positive impact on both the environment and society. View the 2024 Sustainability Report now via the button below!
