From 4th to 9th October, Biberach-based Vollmer will be introducing a raft of new technologies. One of the highlights on show at EMO will be the new VHybrid 260 grinding and erosion machine as well as the VLaser 370 laser machine, which will make its first live appearance at EMO due to Coronavirus restrictions. There will also be a world premiere in the form of the new VGrind 360S tool grinding machine.
When EMO 2021 open its doors, visitors to stand E18/F13 in Hall 2 will be able to gain insights into the latest Vollmer portfolio of sharpening machines and services. This will include all the latest information on its wide range of grinding, erosion and laser machines for machining milling cutters, drill bits, reamers, circular saws and band saws. No matter what the process, the full-line supplier always has the ideal sharpening solution for sharpening tools tipped with carbide or PCD – also incorporating automation for unmanned production around the clock.
VGrind 360S – the latest addition to the range
The newest model of Vollmer grinding machines is the VGrind 360S. This new machine can be used productively to machine carbide tools with a diameter up to 25.4mm and depending on the machine kinematics and the tipping of the grinding wheel packages, it can even be used for tools up to 150mm diameter. Incorporating wear-free linear induction motors on all three axes will lower maintenance costs for the machine whilst demonstrating higher surface quality for the tool.
The tried-and-tested double-spindle concept features an oriented spindle stop for the first time. This always stops the spindle at a specific position. This function is also known as spindle indexing. This reduces axial run-out errors and concentricity errors even further and offsets wear in the HSK holding system. Another new feature is a heat plate exchanger to efficiently cool motors and spindles, which in turn leads to increased thermal stability. The VGrind 360S incorporates Vollmer's trusted operating concept and can be operated unmanned around the clock thanks to automation features such as pallet magazine, free-arm robot and chain magazine.
Premiere of the VLaser 370
Restrictions permitting, the Vollmer VLaser 370 machine will have its live exhibition premiere in Milan. The VLaser 370 uses the power of a non-contact laser to sharpen the cutting edges of cutting tools made of PCD or other ultra-hard materials. At the core of the machine is its fixed laser beam guidance with precision machine kinematics. How the five axes are arranged means that the tool is always machined at the pivot point of the C-axis. This makes it possible to sharpen tools with minimal axis movement to ensure stable process control.
Precision grinding and eroding with the VHybrid 260
Also on show at EMO will be the VHybrid 260 grinding and erosion machine. This machine will enable tool manufacturers to grind and erode a wide range of carbide and PCD tools in one combined set-up. The VHybrid 260 combines technologies and experience that Vollmer has gained in the fields of grinding and eroding over many decades. The key component for the eroding process is the VPulse EDM erosion generator, which optimises efficiency and surface quality. For grinding operations, the VHybrid 260 features the tried-and-tested machine concept of the VGrind series.
Comprehensive service package from Vollmer
The trade fair will also be attended by the Vollmer Service division. The team will present offers for maintenance, servicing, training, financing and digitalisation. This will include digital solutions from Vollmer's V@dison initiative, such as the ‘Performance Pack for VHybrid 260’ V@ boost solution or the ‘Visual Support’ V@ guide solution that enables customers to connect with Vollmer technicians in real-time.
"At EMO in Milan, we finally have the chance to meet and speak with our customers in person again and show them the latest innovations from Vollmer," says Jürgen Hauger, CEO of the Vollmer Group. "Under the umbrella term of ‘Networking’, our focus is not only on personal contact but also on the digital connection between sharpening machines and online maintenance services such as our online seminars that we also hope to be able to resume after the Corona pandemic."
