Hoffmann Machine Company was founded in 1990 by Dr Walter Hoffmann and his two sons, Thomas and Martin. Initially, they designed and built machines in their father’s garage, each sale allowing them to buy more parts and build the next machine. As demand grew, they moved to some sheds in their grandma’s garden and eventually on to where we find the company today, with its Head Office in Bruchsal, Germany. Many of the original staff are still with the company.
Today, Hoffmann Machine Company designs and manufactures routing machines (MU range), double mitre saws (MS range), specialist tooling and custom-made machinery. These machines are built on-site in Bruchsal and delivered all around the world, in close co-operation with the customer to ensure quality and performance.
Modern technology and new manufacturing methods have raised the expectations of users of woodworking machinery. In a competitive market. This is why Hoffmann uses only the very best and state-of-the art components.
“Our machines are built to the highest standards, utilising leading edge technology that is driven by the needs of our customers. Customer satisfaction is our primary concern. We seek to provide the best in quality, delivery and after sale service,” says Thomas Hoffmann, MD.
A proven mechanical feature
Shortly after founding the company, and after several years of development work by Thomas and Martin whilst working abroad in the U.S., an event took place with far-reaching implications – the idea that resulted in the “Hoffmann-Schwalbe” (Hoffmann Key). Designs and tests were carried out on numerous, sometimes even extreme applications. The result is a molded four-dimensional key in a double dovetail shape with obliquely converging ribbed inner surfaces, which is able to draw together two work-pieces in a stable and permanent joint. The Hoffmann Key changed the business activities of Hoffmann forever.
“The joining of work-pieces and components of all kinds, by our customers, has become a core part of the company. For this we offer a wide range of Hoffmann Keys and other related jointing systems with extensive processing techniques for both large- and small-scale operations. To an expert, the advantages of this unique joining system are obvious. Uncomplicated, durable, efficient and economical,” explains Thomas Hoffmann.
The hero product
Now on the MU 3 version, Dovetail keyways are routed into all mating parts and the frames are assembled by applying some glue and inserting Hoffmann Dovetail Keys. These Keys draw the parts together to form a tight, secure and permanent joint. No large clamping tables or bar clamps are required, and the frames can be finished immediately upon assembly.
All dovetail routing machines can process regular mitre joints and butt joints. This thoroughly revised machine has been reworked, updated and adapted to suit the current and future needs of the industry, with many new additional features. Ergonomic, user-friendly as well as up to date, the new MU-3 is available in four versions.
MU-3 entry level version for the quick and precise routing of dovetail slots. MU-3 D Digital version, with electronic two-axis display for the adjustable routing depth, as well as the positioning of the centre fence for the routed slot location. It is ideal for high precision work. MU-3 P Pneumatic version for series production and high throughput. Pneumatic workpiece clamping and controlled router feed. The MU-3 P is operated by foot-pedal control. MU-3 PD Pneumatic/ Digital version – the top machine with the highest operating comfort for a wide range of requirements. Functional features are similar to MU-3 P with a digital two-axis display for the adjustable routing depth as well as the positioning of the centre fence for the routed slot location.01524 841500
