Grinder Krzysztof Steć Loves Precision – New Okuma Grinder Takes Quality Performance to the Next Level
Krzysztof Steć has worked as a machine operator at Mapromec since 2007. Steć’s long career has been fueled by one thing in particular: his love for the precision of grinding.
“Piston pins may appear simple, but in reality, they require high-precision manufacturing. Seeing the final product turn out perfectly is incredibly motivating for me. I genuinely love my work.”
Steć is no stranger to high quality requirements. Originally from Poland, Steć has a degree in metal processing and experience of grinding in the aviation sector – an industry where component standards are extremely high.
“I have been involved in manufacturing critical parts my entire working life. Technical expertise is the foundation of this work.”
In Steć’s experience, it is also crucial that the workplace atmosphere supports focus and precision. At Mapromec, Steć appreciates the warm, peaceful and stress-free ambiance – one of the perks of working in a Finnish company.
“I also have a kesämökki (summer cottage) where I go unwind in the weekends. It is a great place to relax after an intense work week. I feel like the quiet, calm Finnish culture and the cool climate suit me well. I consider Finland my home.”
The New Okuma “A True 21st Century Machine”
During his years in the company, Steć highlights the way both Mapromec’s machinery and the company itself have evolved.
“When I started, our machinery was completely different. The company has developed a lot, especially in the past two and a half years under the leadership of Managing Director Tapio Kaunismäki. Times change, and it is crucial for a company to keep up with the development.”
One of the most significant recent changes concerning Steć’s work is the commissioning of Mapromec’s brand new Okuma GP-36FII x 150 grinding machine. Commissioned in August, the new state-of-the-art machine features a fully automatic grinding process, easy programmability, and delivers an excellent precision of workmanship as well as very high surface quality.
“The best thing about the Okuma is its stability. Once you make a setting, the machine holds it piece by piece. The machine has multiple settings, allowing you to grind a variety of piston pin models quickly and easily with minimal adjustments. And the surface quality is amazing. This is truly a 21st century machine.”
When Steć first heard about the new investment, he was apprehensive whether an “old dog” like himself could be taught new tricks. After a couple of months of operating the machine, it has turned out that yes, he could.
“The machine is very easy to operate. We had an excellent trainer from Germany through Okuma’s local representative MCT Flextek and the commissioning went smooth. If needed, we also have access to MCT Flextek’s support. The learning process is continuous, but everything has gone really well and the future looks promising with potential to harness the machine's advanced features.”
Steć notes that the investment is significant for Mapromec as a company, but also for himself as an operator:
“The grinding process takes place in a closed space, enhancing workplace safety and contributing to the machine operator's health. I'm also excited to have the opportunity to continue improving my skills at this stage in my career. When it comes to Mapromec, the company has already taken major leaps forward. Our exceptional manufacturing precision and quality, along with our global customer base, signals that we are on the right path. Our new Okuma will enhance our operations as we continue to advance and uphold our exceptional quality performance.”
Read more about grinding and our other manufacturing services
Read more about the Okuma investment and our 30-year journey (in Finnish)
The new Okuma grinder being delivered on site