The highest precision is achieved through the optimal interaction of machine, tool and machining process. Japanese-Swiss company Big Kaiser therefore relies on the combination of hard turning and grinding on a Super Precision T51 SP MSY machine when manufacturing its high-precision tool holders in Rümlang near Zurich.

The list of machine manufacturers that produce high-precision hard turning machines is not long. One of the most prominent companies in this field was machine manufacturer Hardinge, which developed the Super Precision series. This series is now part of the portfolio of Kellenberger Switzerland AG.

Thanks to their rigidity and stability, the CNC high-precision lathes in the Super Precision series are suitable for hard turning as well as for combined hard turning and grinding operations in the production of complex workpieces in a single set-up. Measurement reports certify that the T series has a continuous machine accuracy of 3 µm, workpiece roundness of 0.25 µm (T42) and 0.70 µm (T65), a repeat accuracy (on all axes) of 0.76 µm, and an achievable surface finish of better than Ra 0.15 µm or Rz1.

“Of all the machine manufacturers we approached, only Hardinge guaranteed us process reliability,” says Big Kaiser’s head of supply chain Marcel Stettler. “That was courageous and ultimately convinced us.”

The new T51 SP MSY was ordered in December 2018 and delivered in summer 2019. A robot handling system for fully automated production was subsequently installed in October 2020.

For the combined turning/milling and grinding operations required for the complete machining of HSK tool holders, the T51 SP MSY machine features a grinding unit with driven tools developed for Big Kaiser, which has an inclined position. This inclined position is of decisive importance for the finish grinding of taper and shoulder features.

More information www.kellenberger.com

Master Abrasives is now an authorised distributor for Eisenblätter power tools and abrasive consumables in the UK. Germany-based Eisenblätter has been manufacturing of grinding and polishing technology for over 50 years with the goal of achieving optimal surface results with the smallest and most cost-effective work steps. The partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, combining Eisenblätter’s technology with Master Abrasives’ knowledge of the UK market.

To ensure that businesses can experience the quality of Eisenblätter’s products first hand, Master Abrasives is offering trials of consumables such as flap discs. This allows customers to test the performance and suitability of the products for their specific applications before committing to a purchase. Master’s expert sales team is available to guide customers through the process, offer technical advice, and assist with selecting the best solutions for their needs.

As part of their new distribution role, Master will be providing the full range of Eisenblätter’s products, including grinding and polishing machines, abrasives, and accessories, all backed by customer service and technical support.

In addition to the range of power tools and abrasives, Master Abrasives is also offering belt solutions. Eisenblätter’s belt machines complement Master’s belt ranges, which are converted at its UK site using materials from 3M, SGA, Sia and Deerfos.

With a shared commitment to quality and innovation, the new partnership is set to help UK businesses optimise their finishing processes, while benefiting from Eisenblätter’s precision and reliability. This is just the beginning of what promises to be a productive and successful partnership, bringing the latest surface finishing solutions to industries across the UK.

More information www.master-abrasives.co.uk

Studer has further developed its favoritCNC universal cylindrical grinding machine. The result is modern grinding technology combined with high precision and simple operation, ultimately delivering a good price-to-performance ratio.

“With numerous new features, optimisations and automation capabilities, the favoritCNC is a future-oriented, economical solution for the external and internal cylindrical grinding of small to medium-sized workpieces in individual and series production,” says Sandro Bottazzo, Studer CEO.

The latest generation of the favoritCNC features a modernised CNC control (FANUC 0i-TFP), software and smart automation capabilities. Thanks to the new automatic operating door and loader interface, customers can now automate their production themselves. Further optimisations have been made regarding its operation with a view to sustainability and efficiency, and in ergonomics for even easier and safer operation. For example, user-friendliness is increased by the simple grinding wheel changing aid and park position for the tailstock within the machine (optional).

New features also include the machine base with a larger distance between the X-axis guideways for even greater wheel-head stability, a resource-saving belt spindle system, a digital display of the swivel angle on the manual B axis, and the optional QuickSet function for fast re-tooling.

When defining the equipment on the new favoritCNC, Studer focused on flexibility. There are two wheel-head variants to choose from: a fixed wheel head for productive external grinding (manual positioning 0°/15°/30°) or a universal wheel head for external and internal grinding (grinding in one clamping, manual swivel 2.5° Hirth coupling). There are also numerous configuration options, such as a fixed or swivelling worktable, or options such as measuring and balancing systems, grinding detection and longitudinal positioning. More information www.studer.com