Hybrid Manufacturing Machine Debuts for Industrial Use
The NX70 DUO integrates metal 3D printing and precision cutting to help operators save factory floor space.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Manufacturing
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Horkos Corp and Meltio have launched the NX70 DUO, a new hybrid manufacturing system that integrates metal 3D printing with precision cutting. The unit, designed to streamline factory operations, is intended for industrial operators facing space and labor constraints.
Why it matters
By combining additive and subtractive manufacturing in one system, the machine aims to reduce the factory floor footprint and mitigate labor shortages. This process integration allows operators to complete complex metal parts without moving materials between separate specialized machines.
While the company has already secured a sale to a major industrial customer, Phillips Federal recently delivered 12 hybrid CNC systems to the US Navy Schoolhouse in Danville, Virginia. The total output of the new NX70 DUO system remains to be measured against traditional machining centers.
The players
Horkos Corp
A Japanese manufacturer specializing in machining centers and factory automation equipment.
Meltio
A technology firm focused on wire laser metal deposition systems for industrial additive manufacturing.
Phillips Federal
A defense and government contractor specializing in the supply of advanced CNC and manufacturing technology.
The details
The NX70 DUO utilizes a twin-head configuration mounted on a Horkos NX70 1510B machining center. The system uses wire laser metal deposition, where laser energy melts welding wire to build parts, then switches to mechanical cutting for finishing. A water-soluble iMQL system is used for precision coolant management during the machining phase.
Timeline
October 26-31, 2026: Product demonstration at JIMTOF 2026 in Tokyo.
Market Landscape
The debut of the NX70 DUO follows the long-standing industry cycle established by the JIMTOF machine tool exhibition series. This launch reflects a broader trend toward process consolidation as manufacturers seek to integrate additive and subtractive tools to optimize facility utilization.
Operators dealing with high-mix, low-volume production should evaluate if hybrid systems can consolidate their workflow to regain floor space. Assess the maintenance requirements of dual-head systems against the labor savings gained from automated tool switching.
The takeaway
The move toward hybrid manufacturing highlights an industry shift toward reducing the number of machines required for complete part production. Operators should track the performance of the NX70 DUO at JIMTOF 2026 to see if the machine's throughput matches their specific production demands.
Further reading
For more on industry-wide hardware shifts, visit our Manufacturing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Themachinemaker.
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