At GrindingHub 2026, VOLLMER WERKE Maschinenfabrik GmbH presents itself as a competent partner for tool manufacturing. In Hall 7, Stand D71, the Biberach sharpening specialist showcases its comprehensive portfolio of grinding, eroding, and laser machines for the efficient processing of ultra-hard cutting materials such as PKD, CVD diamond, PcBN, or carbide. The focus is on automated manufacturing concepts, digital solutions, and the targeted use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Hybrid machine concept as the key to efficiency
In light of increasing demands for precision and cost-effectiveness, Vollmer is strategically focusing on the hybrid machine concept of the VHybrid 260, which combines mechanical grinding processes with contactless eroding technology and digital solutions in a single machine. The VHybrid 260 not only stands for the combination of several sharpening technologies but also forms the basis for consistently digitized and automated manufacturing processes. A central element is the Vpulse-EDM generator, which enables the high-precision manufacturing of even the smallest micro-tools with diameters of 0.2 millimeters. When eroding, surface qualities of up to 0.05 µm Ra can be achieved. Additionally, cutting edge radii of up to 1.5 µm can be produced. This can lead to the elimination of subsequent grinding of functional surfaces, avoiding tolerance risks during clamping and additional process-intensive work steps, significantly reducing overall production costs.
At GrindingHub 2026, Vollmer showcases its portfolio of grinding, eroding, and laser machines, with which customers can process ultra-hard cutting materials such as carbide, PKD, CVD diamond, or PcBN. In terms of greater efficiency, hybrid machines are particularly important for sharpening tools faster and with higher quality. This is exemplified by full-head PKD tools with complex geometries: in one clamping, the contours can be ground in carbide and the cutting edges eroded in the PKD head. This approach not only shortens main and auxiliary times but also makes the transition between the PKD head and carbide blank almost seamless – without unevenness or steps.
The VHybrid 260 particularly demonstrates its strengths in round eroding. The contactless, high-precision process allows for economical processing. This is especially beneficial for micro-tools, where dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and reproducible processes are crucial. The combination of cylindrical grinding and round eroding enables the manufacturing of the smallest tool diameters with high precision, process reliability, and efficiency – in a continuous, automated process chain.
Process for generating defined round edges
For drilling tools, a round edge proves to be advantageous for several reasons. Sharply eroded cutting edges can lead to problems in various application scenarios – especially in the area of PKD drilling tools. A cutting edge without a round edge can result in unstable cuts, increased wear, reduced tool reliability, and deterioration of workpiece quality.
A round edge not only creates a defined cutting edge contour with reduced chipping but also improves the stability of the cutting edge as well as the surface structure and roughness in the area of the cutting edge. This leads to longer tool life, increased process reliability, and better quality of the machined workpiece. By integrating the round edge processing on the VHybrid 260, users are enabled to perform complete processing on a single machine. The geometry processing and the creation of the round edge – whether eroded or ground – can be realized within one clamping. Additionally, the integration of LaserChecks allows for a closed-loop process, ensuring that no manual adjustments are required during processing.
Automation and digitization for 24/7 manufacturing
Regardless of the sharpening technology used, all Vollmer machines are consistently designed for automated 24/7 manufacturing. Central robotic systems take over loading via carts, pallet loaders, or chain magazines and monitor the fully automated complete processing. A newly developed ND gripper with automatically adjustable gripper diameter significantly expands the possibilities in tool handling. By flexibly adapting to various tool types, it increases both process reliability and versatility in use. At the same time, the innovative solution contributes to a noticeable increase in efficiency in automated loading. Through a central IoT platform, machine and production data are collected, analyzed, and managed. The web-based VPortal serves as a central information and service platform, providing users with a transparent overview of documentation and service information. Additionally, the Smart Hub intelligently consolidates production and machine data and prepares it for further analysis. AI-supported algorithms and an intelligent chatbot assist users in evaluating documentation and historical data, providing relevant information on machine utilization, produced quantities, or scrap rates.
AI and digitization as opportunities for SMEs
"Especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, the combination of hybrid machine technology, digitization, and AI offers great opportunities," says Tobias Trautmann, managing director of the Vollmer Group. "Processes can be made more transparent, downtimes reduced, and resources utilized more effectively. With the VHybrid 260, we create a platform where different sharpening technologies, digital solutions, and AI applications work seamlessly together to measurably optimize manufacturing processes."
Live machine portfolio at GrindingHub
At GrindingHub 2026, Vollmer will also present additional solutions from its current machine program. These include the VLaser 370 in an automated version and the VGrind Infinity linear. The trade fair appearance is rounded off by the models CS 860 and CP 650, as well as the KSC560-B from the subsidiary Loroch.
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