With the spring-loaded zeus tool systems with lettering segments 431 and 432, the precision tool manufacturer Hommel+Keller from Aldingen makes labeling components on multi-spindle lathes extremely cost-efficient. Even at very high rotation or cycle times, the tool solutions with interchangeable lettering segments produce process-safe perfect lettering – and are flexible and diameter-independent even with a large variety of items.
Whether to label safety-relevant batches of assemblies traceably, to number products, to label with the production date, or to add data matrix codes or the company logo – continuous component labeling or marking is essential to ensure clear identification, traceability, and quality assurance of components. It also enables efficient logistics processes, error-free assembly, and compliance with legal regulations and standards in many industries. Hommel+Keller Precision Tools GmbH from Aldingen offers powerful solutions with its zeus labeling technology for the efficient, fast, and precise marking of components and workpieces in series production. Both standardized and individually tailored tool systems can be directly integrated into manufacturing processes. They ensure maximum process safety and master even complex labeling requirements in the shortest possible time.
For example, labeling components on multi-spindle lathes, which are specifically used for the series production of rotationally symmetrical workpieces under high cycle times. They are an important component in metal processing, especially in the automotive, electrical, and mechanical engineering industries. Sigmund Grimm, CEO of Hommel+Keller Precision Tools GmbH: 'Multi-spindle lathes are designed for large quantities at extreme speeds. Therefore, it is not intended to take cycle time out for the labeling process, or there are machine types where the speed cannot even be regulated. Thus, precise labeling quickly becomes time- and tool-cost-intensive, especially when a separate lettering roll is needed for each component with a large variety of items. The labeling takes place around the entire circumference of the component.
Tool systems with interchangeable lettering segments are more flexible and significantly more cost-efficient. They must be designed so that the speed is not reduced for the labeling process or the marking process must be carried out via the C-axis. Sigmund Grimm: 'Here, the wheat quickly separates from the chaff in the market. Our spring-loaded zeus systems 431 and 432 are designed to work process-safe even at high speeds. This not only offers the user unlimited freedom in labeling but also extreme cost efficiency at high cycle times!'
With the spring-loaded zeus tool systems with lettering segments, the embossing occurs through a single partial rotation of the lettering roll. After the text is completed, the roll stops and is precisely returned to its starting position by a return spring. This technology allows workpieces with different diameters to be labeled effortlessly and saves significant time in the labeling process compared to a lettering roll that requires a full rotation for large quantities.
An example is the zeus segment tool 432: It allows labeling workpieces up to the collar. The user also has the choice between a fixed lettering roll and flexibly interchangeable letter segments – ideal for continuous serial numbers. By simply replacing the segments, texts can be quickly and cost-effectively adjusted. Text content and reading direction can be freely designed, allowing the same tool to be used for various labeling tasks. Not only text characters (letters, numbers, and special characters) and logos are possible, but also data matrix codes.
A practical example: An established manufacturer of fasteners previously used a lettering roll when labeling a steel cutting ring, Ø 10mm, on a conventional multi-spindle at speeds of 3600 rpm. Due to the variety of items, a separate lettering roll was needed for each component. The labeling was done around the entire circumference of the component. With the use of the zeus spring-loaded tool system with lettering segments, the manufacturer fully exploits the optimization potential: They now achieve diameter-independent and flexible labeling with individual lettering segments at the same speed as when processing with lettering rolls. Furthermore, the labeling is done only once on the component and not continuously.
Sigmund Grimm: 'By being able to use our spring-loaded zeus tool systems with lettering segments on multi-spindles even at 'brutal' speeds, a very wide range of applications opens up for these extremely cost-efficient tool solutions.'
The spring-loaded systems 431 (left) and 432 (right) are suitable for different workpiece diameters. Series 432 allows flat and longitudinal labeling up to the collar. Both tool solutions can be used process-safe on multi-spindle lathes even at very high cycle times.
Thanks to interchangeable segments, cost-effective text modifications with lettering segments can be made in no time. Text and reading direction can be individually designed.
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