Customer Story: Andy Hunter – KTR Innovations

Manufacturing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Las Vegas. However, almost 30,000 people are employed in the sector, and manufacturing continues to expand.

KTR Innovations is a startup manufacturing operation providing CNC machining in Las Vegas. Founder Andy Hunter discovered that a CNC machine from SYIL was exactly what he needed to start growing his business.

You can learn more about Andy and the benefits he gained from his SYIL machine. You'll see how SYIL can give your business an advantage, too.

Meet Andy Hunter and KTR Innovations

Andy Hunter is the founder and owner of KTR Innovations. KTR Innovations is a precision CNC machining company in Las Vegas.

They provide fabrication and rapid prototyping services. Laser engraving and CAD modeling are some of the value-added options.

KTR Innovations focuses on parts for local companies in the Las Vegas area. They also do some job shop work. Andy is developing a line of parts to sell under his brand.

Andy has earned a reputation for making custom parts for e-bikes, cars, and other vehicles.

Choosing a Small CNC Machine from SYIL

Andy was looking for a new small CNC machine. "After doing a bunch of online research to decide what machine to purchase, I stumbled upon SYIL," he explained.

SYIL is gaining an international reputation in precision CNC machine tools. SYIL is dedicated to designing and manufacturing exceptional high-speed, high-precision CNC machines.

The company entered the CNC machining market in 2005 with the SYIL X3. SYIL now offers a complete line of CNC mills, from the mini X5 to the large X11 launched in 2022.

KTR Innovations needed a small but powerful CNC mill. Andy found the SYIL X7.

Benefits of CNC Machining

A CNC machine helped Andy take KTR Innovations to the next level. Andy explained, "It was amazing. The SYIL was the first time I saw a VMC (Vertical Machining Center). It was everything I wanted it to be and more."

CNC machining uses programmed computer software to control the machinery. The first step is designing the part using CAD software.

CAM software prepares the model for production, checks for flaws, and creates a CNC program to manufacture the part.

A CNC machine improves accuracy and reduces errors compared to manual machining. It increases efficiency and productivity. Andy can quickly move from prototypes to production.

Advantages of the SYIL X7

The SYIL X7 has several advantages over the competition. Andy said, "Mainly the epoxy granite frame and the servos."

He explained, "It will hold well within my tolerance range all day long."

Epoxy Granite Frame

Cast iron or steel frames were once the standard. SYIL began using epoxy granite in 2020 for better performance at a competitive price.

Epoxy granite, also called mineral casting, includes:

• Cement
• Granite
• Quartz sand
• Reinforcing fibers
• Epoxy resin

It has less vibration, better accuracy, and a longer service life. It's quieter and more stable in temperature changes—ideal for Las Vegas. It’s also corrosion resistant.

SYIL partners with Schneeberger, a leader in mineral casting, to build these frames.

Absolute Servos

The SYIL X7 includes absolute servos, which are more accurate and efficient than stepper motors. Unlike others, it doesn’t require homing, saving time and boosting productivity.

Accuracy and Repeatability

The X7 uses THK linear motion guides for smooth, efficient, and rigid motion. With laser compensation, its axis repeatability is 0.001 mm and positional accuracy is 0.002 mm.

Uses for the SYIL X7

Andy uses the X7 for various materials and projects, including suspension parts for Porsche and parts for Battlebots.

• Aluminum
• Copper
• Steel and stainless steel
• Brass
• ABS
• Acrylic
• PTFE

Andy says, "You will never regret it." The SYIL X7 offers high performance at a competitive price.