History

For over a century and a half, GF Machining Solutions has been an innovator and a source of strength to customers.

Our history of technology leadership includes expansion into technologies that have spurred our customers’ growth, and—with an eye to the future—we continue to innovate in order to advance the success of our customers in particular and the machine tool industry as a whole.

2019-2014

2018

GF Machining Solutions announces its strategic cooperation with 3D Systems, a leader in additive manufacturing, for jointly developed, integrated manufacturing solutions based on 3D printing. The first jointly developed machine, the DMP Factory 500, is presented at IMTS in Chicago in the same year.

2017

In line with its strategy to digitize its offering, GF Machining Solutions acquires the Germany-based company Symmedia, a specialist in software for machine connectivity solutions.

2016

GF Machining Solutions acquires Microlution, a specialist in micro-machining based on Milling and Laser technologies. The acquisition is in line with the strategy of GF Machining Solutions to enlarge its technology portfolio to cover the needs of its key target sectors such as aerospace and medical.

2014

Liechti Engineering, a worldwide market leader in precision airfoils for the aircraft engine and energy production sectors, becomes part of GF Machining Solutions.

As of 1 January 2014, GF AgieCharmilles becomes GF Machining Solutions. The name change is an opportunity for the Division to communicate that it is far more than simply a supplier of machine tools. Along with the name change, a new design style on the GF Machining Solutions website and sales literature will be gradually implemented.

2001-2009

2009

GF AgieCharmilles integrates Laser texturing into its technology portfolio. This technology allows machining of surfaces by means of various applications:

  • Laser engraving
  • Microstructures
  • Marking
  • Laser labeling

2007

Launch of GF AgieCharmilles, a group of Georg Fischer Corporation, Schaffhausen (Switzerland).

2002

Acquisition of Step-Tec, the leading manufacturer for high-performance Milling Spindles.

2001

Agie Charmilles acquires the System 3R Group, he world's leading supplier of Tooling and Automation systems for machine tools.

1996-2000

2000

Agie Charmilles acquires Mikron machining business and becomes number two in high-speed machining (HSM) worldwide.

1999

Agie Charmilles Group enters the field of high-performance Milling.

Launch of Actspark as a new EDM brand for the entry market segment.

1996

Georg Fischer acquires a majority share in Agie Holding Ltd. The two market leaders Charmilles and Agie merge to become the Agie Charmilles Group, the world leader in EDM.

1861-1952

1952

Atelier des Charmilles starts with the research and development of EDM for industrial applications.

1906

Piccard & Pictet SA, later to become Ateliers des Charmilles, manufacture cars.

1861

Founding of Staib & Cie, Switzerland. The birthplace of Charmilles.