Since its founding in 1984, Lih-Jaan has earned a strong reputation for precision engineering, particularly in the field of building thread and cylindrical grinding machines. With decades of experience and a commitment to quality, the company became a trusted name in its industry. But as manufacturing demands evolved and the complexity of applications increased, Lih-Jaan set its sights on a new challenge: worm thread grinding.

This highly specialised process requires not only technical precision but also a deep understanding of machine control and customisation. To take this next step, Lih-Jaan needed a partner with the expertise and flexibility to support such an ambitious move. That is when it turned to NUM.

What began as an initial conversation around the NUMgrind software platform evolved into a strategic alliance driven by innovation and opportunity. A renewed momentum emerged when Lih-Jaan identified a specific market need, leading to a strengthened co-operation between the two companies. Working hand in hand, they developed a custom solution that combines flexibility, user-friendliness and the ability to support a wide range of worm thread profiles. Despite a few time-related challenges in the final stages, the joint efforts culminated in a successful machine delivery.

The result was a newly developed worm thread grinding machine. At its core: NUM’s Flexium+ 68 CNC system, paired with a version of NUMgrind and worm thread grinding HMI and MDLUX axes. The machine supports five different types of worm threads, including multi-start threads, and allows for both cylindrical and non-circular grinding – all in one set up.

“NUM’s total solution not only expanded our product portfolio but also enabled us to realise our goal of developing a specialized multi-tasking machine,” states Ava Tsai, sales manager at Lih-Jaan.

More information www.num.com

“We’re delighted that our innovations in grinding technology were met with such great interest among international trade visitors at last month’s EMO exhibition in Hanover,” says Studer CEO Sandro Bottazzo. The Swiss manufacturer of cylindrical grinding machines presented numerous innovations at the world’s leading trade show for manufacturing technology from 22 to 26 September.

One highlight was the world premiere of the new S23 universal cylindrical grinding machine. This versatile CNC machine offers state-of-the-art grinding technology for precision and reliability in a space-saving design. Thanks to its quality features, the S23 complements the portfolio between the entry-level and premium segments. Studer says it impresses with features such as the modern C.O.R.E. hardware and software architecture, an automatic B-axis with 1° Hirth serration for up to three grinding tools, and a Granitan machine base with excellent thermal and vibration properties.

The new generation of favoritCNC, which Studer has equipped with modern capabilities and optimisations, also attracted a great deal of attention. The popular entry-level machine now features an updated CNC (FANUC 0i-TFP), an automatic operating door and loader interface for automation solutions, a resource-saving belt spindle system, and a machine base with a larger X-guideway distance for even greater stability. In addition, the new ‘Conventional Mode’ facilitates the transition between manual and CNC grinding.

On the S31 universal cylindrical grinding machine for small to large workpieces, Studer demonstrated an innovative axis system that it says sets new standards in automated precision cylindrical grinding. The long W axis enables automatic adjustment of the tailstock position to different workpiece lengths, while the active R axis with in-process measuring system can scan complex geometries on the workpiece.

More information www.studer.com

Vollmer says its new VGrind Infinity Linear tool grinding machine can precisely, quickly and energy-efficiently machine precision tools with diameters from 0.2 to 200 mm from different materials such as carbide, HSS, PcBN or ceramic. Automation and digital capabilities enable unmanned operation around the clock, from small batch sizes and special solutions to series production.

The foundation for precise sharpening processes consists of two vertically configured grinding spindles, which enable efficient multi-level machining and thus resolve issues associated with fixed and floating bearings commonly found in competitor machines. Furthermore, the grinding wheel set at the pivot point of the C axis and the wear-free linear induction motors on the X, Y, and Z axes ensure a lifetime of accuracy and stability.

Thanks to the configurable spindles, tool manufacturers can customise both the speed and power for the tool and cutting material. The optimised spindle transmission ratio guarantees a constant torque, which is delivered by the compact, powerful and energy-efficient motor.

The rigidity of the VGrind Infinity Linear and the intelligent cooling concept, which ensures thermal stability with plate heat exchangers, deliver the required tool precision. If necessary, the machine also runs through a defined warm-up program for thermal stability at the start of a shift. As soon as all monitored operating parameters are within the target range, scheduled production starts automatically.

In terms of tool dimensions, the VGrind Infinity Linear is capable of machining micro tools with diameters from 0.2 mm up to large drills and milling cutters with diameters of 200 mm – all with tool lengths of up to 360 mm.

More information www.vollmer-group.com/en-uk