The machine can precisely, quickly, and energy-efficiently process precision tools with diameters ranging from 0.2 mm to 200 mm and made from various cutting materials such as carbide, HSS, PcBN, or ceramic. Automations and digital solutions of the VGrind infinity linear enable unmanned operation around the clock – from small batch sizes and custom solutions to series production.
Nomen est omen with the VGrind infinity linear grinding machine from the sharpening specialist Vollmer: The machine offers infinite versatility for the high-precision manufacturing of numerous tool types in various sizes. The VGrind infinity linear automates the processing of several cutting materials such as carbide, HSS (High Speed Steel), PcBN (Polycrystalline Cubic Boron Nitride), or ceramic in a single setup. The foundation for the precise sharpening processes are two vertically arranged grinding spindles that allow for efficient multi-level processing, thus avoiding the typical fixed and loose bearing issues found in machines. Additionally, the grinding wheel set at the pivot point of the C-axis and the wear-free linear motors on the X, Y, and Z axes ensure consistently repeatable and stable tool manufacturing.
All-rounder adapts to every sharpening process
Thanks to the configurable spindles, tool manufacturers can individually adjust both the speed and the power for each tool and each cutting material. The optimized spindle transmission guarantees a constant torque provided by the compact, powerful, and energy-efficient motor. The machine rigidity of the VGrind infinity linear and the intelligent cooling concept, which ensures thermal stability with plate heat exchangers, achieve the desired accuracy at the cutting edge.
Furthermore, at the start of a sharpening process, the VGrind infinity linear can run a defined warm-up program for thermal stability within a few minutes if desired. Once all operating parameters are within the target range, the planned production starts automatically.
With regard to tool dimensions, limitless means that the VGrind infinity linear is capable of processing delicate micro-tools with diameters from 0.2 mm up to large drills and end mills with 200 mm – and this for tool lengths up to 360 mm. For both short and long tools, the machine features various clamping systems that ensure precise processing with the integrated laser measurement system. The all-rounder can even handle fully cylindrical tools up to 32 mm in diameter.
Automations for round-the-clock manufacturing
Multiple automations enable unmanned operation around the clock. Tools with different shank diameters can be gripped, and the pallet magazine HP 170 automatically supplies the machine with up to 900 shank tools. The chain magazines HC 4 and HC 4 plus can provide different shank and HSK tools, and the internal pallet loader has space for up to 300 shank tools.
An eight-fold grinding wheel changer brings maximum autonomy and variety for tool manufacturing. Additionally, the serially integrated IoT gateway controls the data flow between the machine and the digital environment.
"Customers can automate the production of small batch sizes with variable tool diameters or large series with the VGrind infinity linear; moreover, the machine has the flexibility to quickly, precisely, and safely set up complex sharpening processes," says Tobias Trautmann, Managing Director of Vollmer. "With this machine, we have an all-rounder that we have aptly named infinity, as it opens up endless possibilities for tailored tool grinding for users."
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