11 March 2026
The Compact Topking X-25 CNC Cylindrical arrives as a game-changer for businesses seeking efficient and innovative grinding technology within a compact footprint.
Simon Rood, Director and General Manager at RK International Machine Tools Ltd, is proud to announce a significant new partnership with Topking Technology Co., Ltd., a premier grinding machine manufacturer based in Taichung, Taiwan. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for the UK precision engineering sector, as the new ultra compact Topking X-25 enters the UK market, introducing Topking’s advanced cylindrical grinding solutions, specifically the space-saving X-25 CNC, to RK International’s extensive portfolio.
This partnership combines RK International’s decades of expertise in supplying high-quality machine tools to the UK market with Topking’s reputation for “Total Quality Control” and innovation in grinding technology.
“We are thrilled to formalise this relationship with Topking Technology,” says Simon Rood. “At RK International, we constantly scour the globe for machine tools that offer our customers a competitive edge. In the current manufacturing climate, where floor space is at a premium, but the demand for sub-micron precision is higher than ever, Topking’s engineering philosophy stands out. Their machines are not just tools; they are comprehensive grinding solutions designed for the modern era of high-efficiency production.”
Ms Pearl Lee, speaking on behalf of Topking Technology, comments on the venture: “Since our inception in 2007, Topking has been dedicated to researching and producing various precision grinding machines to meet the needs of the manufacturing industry. We have established a robust sales network spanning over 20 countries across five continents, earning the trust of the international manufacturing industry. Partnering with RK International allows us to deepen our presence in the UK, a major European industrial hub where we can provide our high-rigidity universal grinding solutions to a discerning market. We view ourselves not just as a machine supplier, but as a grinding solution centre and a reliable technical partner for our clients.”
Founded in 2007 in Taichung, Topking Technology quickly established itself as a leader in the field. From its origins in two-axis NC cylindrical grinders, Topking has progressively expanded its capabilities to encompass complex CNC CAM cylindrical grinding machines, hydrostatic centreless grinders, and linear-motor-driven cross-slider machines.
The company boasts a professional R&D team committed to continuous innovation, ensuring their products find wide application in demanding industries such as aerospace, medical equipment, automotive, and precision machinery. This heritage of experience and technology ensures that every machine delivered maintains the highest level of market competitiveness.
The focal point of this new partnership is the introduction of the Topking X-25 CNC Cylindrical Grinder to the UK market. This machine represents a paradigm shift in grinder design, specifically engineered for high precision and high technology within a remarkably compact footprint.
“The X-25 is the perfect answer for UK manufacturers facing space constraints,” explains Simon Rood. “Unlike traditional T-type base designs, the X-Series utilises a revolutionary cross-slide structure. This design allows the X-25 to reduce floor space requirements by over 30% while significantly enhancing stability. It is a superior choice when space is limited, making it ideal for busy production environments where every square meter counts.”
The X-25’s architecture differs from that of standard grinders. The X-axis and Z-axis are designed as a cross-slider, meaning the worktable is permanently bolted to the machine base. This “travelling head” configuration keeps the workpiece stationary with respect to Z-axis travel, while the slides move. This design significantly reduces machine space and shortens the required travel distance, improving working speed and precision stability.
The machine base itself is constructed from high-rigidity Meehanite cast iron, which has undergone annealing and ageing treatment to ensure material stability. The slideways undergo high-frequency hardening and precision grinding, resulting in a deformation-free structure with outstanding wear resistance. Furthermore, the X and Z axes are protected by enclosed telescopic covers, which shield the high-precision linear scale and drive devices from grinding mist and coolant, ensuring long-term accuracy.
Despite its compact machine dimensions of just 1800 x 2310 x 1800 mm, the X-25 packs industrial-grade capacity. It features a swing over table of Ø270 mm and a maximum grinding diameter of Ø250 mm, with a distance between centres of 200 mm.
The grinding capability is driven by a powerful 5.5 kW grinding wheel spindle motor. The wheelhead construction is a testament to Topking’s metallurgical expertise. The grinding wheel spindle is manufactured from high-quality SNCM-220 alloy steel. The spindle undergoes a multi-stage heat treatment process, achieving a surface hardness above HRC 62 and ensuring long-term dimensional stability and resistance to deformation.
“This level of detail in the spindle construction guarantees no deformation and high precision forever,” notes Simon Rood. “It uses precision bearings for a long service life and easy maintenance, capable of running the large Ø510 mm grinding wheel at a linear velocity of 45 m/sec. This is high-efficiency material removal in a package small enough to fit in the tightest machine shops.”
While Topking machines feature versatile control options, RK International is highlighting the X-25 equipped with the optional FANUC control system, specifically the FANUC 0i-TF. This integration brings world-class reliability and familiarity to UK operators.
However, the true power lies in the software overlay. “The X-25 features a user-friendly operating system with a built-in Graphical User Interface (GUI),” explains Rood. “Operators do not need to be experts in complex G-code or M-code programming. The system allows the operator to divide complex components into multiple grinding processes via graphical guidance. You simply fill in the numerical data for grinding and dressing, and the machine handles the rest. It is an intuitive, ‘fill-in-the-blanks’ approach that simplifies process editing significantly.”
This flexibility allows operators to switch freely between the GUI for quick setup and traditional CNC programming modes for more complex, bespoke requirements. The control system supports multiple modes, including OD, end-face, and profile grinding, as well as various dressing cycles, including straight, profile, and radius.
The X-25 ensures sub-micron accuracy through its feed design. It adopts precise linear guides and a ball screw design for two-axis movement. The linear guides are wear-resistant and low-friction, ensuring smooth axis movement, while the ball screw handles high loads with low backlash.
“This combination allows for a quick and flexible feed mode,” adds Pearl Lee. “The machine can achieve rapid feed rates of 10,000 mm/min and automatic feeding speeds down to 0.001 mm increments. For the X-axis, a closed-loop control linear scale is provided as a standard accessory, ensuring that the positioning accuracy is maintained regardless of thermal conditions.”
RK International recognises that versatility is key for UK subcontractors. The X-25 is not limited to simple plunge grinding. It is capable of traverse grinding, oscillation, and even shoulder grinding. The work head is driven by a servo motor with stepless variable speed (10-300 rpm), and the tailstock option includes hydraulic support for easy operation.
Furthermore, the machine is designed for automation. The rigid base and digital architecture make it an ideal candidate for robot loading systems, allowing for continuous production to enhance output and efficiency. As demonstrated in Topking’s application references, robots can load small grinders, cutting cycle times in half, making the X-25 a powerhouse for high-volume shaft production.
“We are bringing a machine to the UK that offers the ‘Best of Both Worlds,'” concludes Simon Rood. “The X-25 offers the heavy-duty cutting capability and rigidity of a much larger machine, thanks to the Meehanite base and cross-slide design, but it fits into the footprint of a utility machine. With the FANUC control, it integrates seamlessly into existing workshops.”
Pearl Lee echoes this sentiment: “We rigorously control the manufacturing process to ensure the durability and stability of each grinder. Every machine must pass a comprehensive standard commissioning process before delivery, including checks with precision image-measuring devices and 3D coordinate-measuring machines. We are confident that RK International’s customers will appreciate the ‘Heritage of Experience’ built into every X-25.”
See more on the new Topking X-25 CNC Cylindrical Grinding Machine >>>
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