Z2 Production Update: A Note From Vel

The Z2 is taking longer to reach customers than we originally expected, and we know that delay deserves both an apology and a clearer look at the work happening behind the scenes.

In my latest video update, we walked through the current state of Z2 production, including the new machining equipment now installed at Zerno HQ, the parts currently being produced in-house, and the team working every day to increase output without compromising the precision that defines the Z2.

The core challenge has been simple, even if the process has not been: The Z2 is an 80mm grinder built around hyperalignment, aerospace-level tolerances, and a standard of fit and finish that we are not willing to lower. After testing outsourced components that could not consistently meet that standard, we made the decision to bring more critical manufacturing in-house.

That decision added time. But it also gave us more control.

Here is some of the latest progress that we have made in our work to ramp up Z2 production: 

State-of-the-art machining equipment: We've made significant investments in precision machining technology, as you may have seen in my recent update. Our latest machine arrived just last week. It's already installed, calibrated, programmed, and machining Z2 parts.

Automation and production efficiency: We've invested in automation technology that is dramatically improving our throughput. We are actively scaling from producing dozens of grinders per week to dozens of grinders per day, and we will not stop pushing until your grinder is on its way to you.

Firmware and performance enhancements: The additional time has also allowed us to make meaningful improvements to the Z2’s firmware and hardware: 

• We've continued refining the firmware PID tuning to increase torque across the RPM range, further reducing the already-rare chance of stalling at lower speeds.
  
  
• On the hardware side, internal electrical components—including the motor coupling and switch contacts—have been reinforced for greater long-term durability.
  
  
• A new, longer chute is now shipping standard with all units.
  
  
• Burr sets now feature laser engravings indicating the burr set name and designating between fixed and rotary burr.
  
  
• We've updated the packaging foam to better protect your grinder during transit. 

We are also committing to more transparency moving forward. This Z2 Production Updates page will be updated regularly with real-time progress across machining, assembly, QC, and shipping, so that you can see where production stands as we continue to ramp up our output.

Thank you for your patience, your belief in this project, and your continued trust in our team. We are working every day to deliver the grinder you have been waiting for, and to make sure it is worthy of the wait.