What System 3R does

System 3R International AB is a precision workholding and automation manufacturer serving industrial machining operations worldwide. Founded in 1967 and operating as a brand under the Swiss conglomerate United Machining Solutions Management AG (UMS), the company is headquartered in Vällingby, Sweden, employs 101–250 people, and reports CO2-neutral manufacturing at its main site. System 3R targets manufacturers in electrical discharge machining (EDM), milling, precision grinding, additive manufacturing post-processing, and powder compacting — sectors where sub-micron repeatability, rapid changeover, and lights-out production are commercially critical. The company reaches this customer base through direct enterprise sales and a network of sales offices and service centers in more than 35 countries, supplemented by an eCatalog storefront and recurring presence at IMTS and AMB trade shows.

The product portfolio is built on three connected pillars: tooling, automation, and software. The proprietary Macro workholding system combines precision reference elements with fast clamping to deliver sub-micron repeatability across EDM, milling, and grinding workflows; the line includes MacroStd, MacroHP, MacroNano, MacroMagnum, MacroJunior, MacroCombi, and complementary systems such as Matrix, GPS, Dynafix, and Delphin. The automation pillar spans entry-level collaborative robotics (C6-20L, 20 kg payload, CRX cobot technology) through mid-range WorkPartner systems and the Transformer T3 series (100–600 kg payloads on rails up to 30 m) to heavy-duty Transformer 6-Axis robots handling 70–700 kg payloads across up to 12 machines, with Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) integration for unattended magazine replenishment. Software — including WorkShopManager 5 and 3, CellManager, CellManager Light, EasyCellManager, and BatchBuilder — provides orchestration, real-time cell monitoring, and ERP (SAP) and CAD/CAM integration via a public API, combined with RFID/QR code-carrier-based Smart ID detection for traceability and correct NC-program association. The open architecture explicitly supports mixing up to 20 different third-party tooling systems including Macro, MacroMagnum, Matrix, GPS, Dynafix, and Delphin, with 100% compatibility across EDM, milling, wire EDM, laser, grinding, CMM, and cleaning machines.

System 3R generates revenue across four streams: (i) hardware sales of precision tooling components and reference systems, (ii) hardware sales of automation equipment with typically high-ticket cell installations, (iii) recurring software subscriptions covering the WSM 5, CellManager, and BatchBuilder product lines, and (iv) professional services including installation, operator training, preventive maintenance, and spare parts. Pricing is quote-based and not publicly disclosed. Brand positioning emphasizes 50+ years of workholding engineering heritage, 100% machine-brand compatibility, and CO2-neutral manufacturing as differentiators against competing workholding and automation vendors.

Name

System 3R

Legal name

System 3R International AB

Website

https://system3r.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1967

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

101–250 employees

Short description

System 3R International AB, founded in 1967 in Sweden and part of United Machining Solutions Management AG, manufactures precision workholding tooling, palletized automation systems, and production software. The company serves precision manufacturers in EDM, milling, grinding, additive, and powder-compacting applications across 35+ countries.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Precision Workholding and Automation Systems

NAICS

Machine Tool Manufacturing (333517), Other General Purpose Machinery Manufacturing (3339)

SIC

Machine Tools, Metal Cutting Types (3541), General Industrial Machinery & Equipment (3560), Special Industry Machinery, Nec (3559)

akta.pro primary industry

Motion & Machine Control (CNC, Robotics Controllers, Servo/Motion Controllers) (IMAGABAG)

akta.pro secondary industry

Automation Systems for Post-Processing (Robotic Cells, Conveyance, Depowder Stations) (IMAAAGAN)

Keywords

• Precision workholding systems
• Manufacturing automation solutions
• Palletized handling automation
• EDM tooling equipment
• Production management software

Headquarters

HQ city

Biel

HQ country

Switzerland

HQ region

Europe

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Supply Chain, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Precision Tooling Products: System 3R generates revenue through the sale of precision workholding and tooling products including Macro chucks, palletisation systems, reference elements, and tooling components. These products deliver sub-micron accuracy and fast clamping for various manufacturing applications.
2. Automation Systems: Revenue from automation equipment including WorkPal 1, WorkPartner 1+, Transformer T3 series, and Transformer 6-Axis Robots, ranging from compact single-machine solutions to large-scale multi-cell environments.
3. Production Software: Software solutions including WorkShopManager 5, WorkShopManager 3, CellManager, CellManager Light, EasyCellManager, and BatchBuilder provide production management, real-time monitoring, and cell control capabilities.
4. Customer Services: Global service expertise covering installation, operator training, preventive maintenance, spare parts, and rapid technical support throughout the entire System 3R lifecycle.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels2 records

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

System 3R designs, manufactures, and sells precision workholding tooling (the Macro line of chucks, pallets, and reference elements), palletized handling automation systems (WorkPartner, WorkPal, Transformer T3, Transformer 6-Axis Robot, Collaborative Robot C6-20L), and production management software (WorkShopManager, Cell Manager family, Batch Builder). Offerings target precision manufacturers using EDM, milling, grinding, wire EDM, additive manufacturing, and powder compacting technologies, with the portfolio engineered to deliver sub-micron repeatability, reduced setup times, and lights-out unmanned production.

Product overview

System 3R offers a unified precision manufacturing portfolio comprising three interconnected pillars: Tooling (the Macro line), Automation (WorkPartner series, Collaborative Robot C6-20L, WorkPal 1, Transformer T3 series, and Transformer 6-Axis Robot), and Software (WorkShop Manager 5/3, Cell Manager, Cell Manager Light, Easy Cell Manager, and Batch Builder). The Macro tooling line provides sub-micron repeatability and fast clamping across electrode manufacturing, EDM, Wire EDM, parts production, powder compacting, and additive manufacturing applications. The automation portfolio scales from compact collaborative robots (C6-20L at 20kg payload) to heavy-duty 6-axis systems (up to 700kg payload), all sharing multi-technology compatibility. The software suite progresses from entry-level batch execution (Batch Builder) through cell management (Cell Manager family, Easy Cell Manager) to full workshop orchestration (WorkShop Manager 5) with ERP integration and lights-out manufacturing support. All elements are presented as a connected end-to-end solution compatible with all machine brands.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• WorkPartner: Automation series that scales from single-machine tending to fully automated multi-cell environments.
• Macro
• WorkShopManager
• CellManager
• BatchBuilder

Products and services

• Macro Line Tooling Precision workholding system combining reference elements with fast, reliable clamping for sub-micron repeatability across every production stage. Includes MacroStd, MacroHP, MacroNano, MacroMagnum, MacroJunior, MacroCombi, plus application-specific configurations for EDM electrodes, wire EDM, parts production, additive manufacturing post-processing, and powder compacting (Macro, Matrix, 3Refix, GPS 70/120/240, Dynafix, Delphin). For manufacturers requiring high-precision workholding across EDM, milling, grinding, wire EDM, and additive manufacturing operations.
• WorkPartner Series Automation Palletized handling automation series scaling from single-machine tending (WorkPartner 1+ serving up to 2 machines with 100 kg payload) to fully automated multi-cell environments for one-off and series production. For manufacturers seeking spindle uptime optimization, fast changeover, and unmanned operation.
• WorkPal 1 Compact entry-level palletized automation system serving one machine with up to 50 kg payload capacity and up to 60 pallet positions. Designed for first automation installations with a compact footprint. For manufacturers taking initial steps into palletized automation.
• Collaborative Robot C6-20L Collaborative robot built around CRX cobot technology with 20 kg max payload (including gripper, pallet and workpiece), 1418 mm reach, serving 1–2 machines. Built-in safety hardware enables fence-free collaborative operation and 24/7 automation. For manufacturers requiring safe human-robot collaboration without protective fencing.
• Transformer T3 Series Modular rail-based automation system scaling from a single machine to a 12-machine rail cell with rail lengths up to 30 m. Available in T3-100 (100 kg), T3-150 (150 kg), T3-200 (200 kg), and T3-600 (600 kg) payload configurations. For manufacturers building out scalable automation cells that grow over time.
• Transformer 6-Axis Robot Heavy-duty 6-axis robotic automation system handling payloads from 70 kg to 700 kg with reach up to 3400 mm, accommodating up to 12 machines in linear configuration. For manufacturers requiring high-payload, long-reach robotic handling in precision production cells.
• WorkShopManager 5 (WSM 5) Comprehensive production management software integrating palletization, tooling, and automation cells with centralized production control, real-time monitoring, ERP integration, and support for lights-out unmanned manufacturing. For manufacturers orchestrating multi-machine cells and full digital production workflows.
• WorkShopManager 3 (WSM 3) Production management software providing a centralized overview of the process chain via a central SQL database, automation process management, and MPS/ERP integration through the MPS2WSM interface. For manufacturers requiring centralized production data management and ERP connectivity.
• CellManager Real-time cell management system for robot-based automation cells supporting 1–12 machines across milling, EDM, Wire EDM, laser, CMM, and cleaning technologies, including AES (Automatic Electrode Selection). For manufacturers running automated multi-machine cells.
• CellManager Light Real-time cell management system for manually loaded machines supporting 1–12 machines without robot automation, featuring a built-in ID system for process safety. For manufacturers managing multi-machine cells without robotic tending.
• EasyCellManager Simplified cell control software for workshops taking first steps into automation, supporting 1–4 milling and laser machines with a touchscreen interface and no ID system requirement. For workshops beginning their first automation installations.
• BatchBuilder Entry-level software enabling batch queue preparation and sequential execution in robot cells, with flexible technology support for milling, EDM, Wire EDM, and CMM. For manufacturers running automated batch production in robot cells.
• System 3R Customer Services Global service expertise covering installation, operator training, preventive maintenance, spare parts, and rapid technical support throughout the entire System 3R lifecycle. For existing System 3R customers requiring ongoing support and uptime assurance.

Quantifiable outcome

• One-minute setup time for electrode and workpiece changes between machines
• +4 more outcomes

Segments6 records

Ideal customer profiles1 record

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

Yes

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration6 records

Feature10 records

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Gressel: Gressel is a Swiss maker of precision vises, zero-point clamping systems, and automation-ready workholding for milling and grinding. It is a niche direct competitor in the Swiss and German precision tooling market, particularly in tool-and-mold-making.
• Gerardi: Gerardi is an Italian manufacturer of precision vises, chucks, and workholding systems for milling and grinding. It is a direct competitor in the European mid-market precision tooling segment, particularly in milling machine workholding where both companies address 3-, 4-, and 5-axis applications.
• Schunk: Schunk is a German leader in workholding, clamping, and gripping technology with a global footprint across precision manufacturing. It is the most direct competitor to System 3R's Macro tooling line, serving overlapping EDM, milling, and grinding customer bases with comparable sub-micron positioning.
• Lang Technik: Lang Technik is a German maker of the Makro·Grip workholding system for 5-axis machining and precision milling. It is a direct competitor in sub-micron workholding chucks, especially in the tool-and-mold-making segment where both vendors compete for OEM and job-shop contracts.
• Allmatic-Jakob: Allmatic-Jakob is a German manufacturer of magnetic and zero-point clamping systems for precision machining. It competes with System 3R's zero-point and pallet-based workholding systems in milling and grinding applications across the European mid-market.
• DESTACO: DESTACO is a US-based manufacturer of clamping, workholding, and robotic tooling solutions, part of the AUBGROUP/Atlas Copco ecosystem. It serves overlapping automotive, aerospace, and general industrial precision customers with comparable workholding and automation products.
• Kitagawa: Kitagawa is a Japanese manufacturer of precision chucks, workholding, and rotary tables. It is a direct competitor to System 3R's Macro line in Asian markets (Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China) and increasingly in Europe and North America through distribution partnerships.
• Erowa: Erowa is a Swiss workholding and automation specialist that pioneered palletized workpiece handling for EDM and milling. It competes directly with System 3R across the same tooling-automation-software stack, with particular strength in the European market and additive manufacturing applications.
• Hainbuch: Hainbuch is a German manufacturer of precision chucks and workholding systems for turning, milling, and grinding. It overlaps with System 3R's parts production and powder compacting tooling lines, serving similar industrial precision manufacturing customers across Europe.
• Fastems: Fastems is a Finnish manufacturer of flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) and robotic automation cells for machine tending. It competes directly with System 3R's WorkPartner, Transformer T3, and 6-axis robot automation lines for multi-machine automation cell contracts in aerospace and general machining.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/@TheSystem3R
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/system-3r

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about System 3R