There is no “one” big lever that can be used to improve the energy efficiency of machine tools. Instead, it is important to take a holistic view of all energy flows and that is EMAG’s approach, which the specialists apply to every new development as well as to the retrofitting of older machines. In conversation with Konrad Heimbach, Lead Engineer Energy Efficiency, it becomes clear that even relatively simple measures can massively reduce energy consumption.
During the Open House Retrofit at the Eislingen plant, EMAG presented the future of industrial machine modernization. Visitors had the opportunity to experience the latest technologies and retrofit solutions at first hand.
With the Health Check, EMAG offers its customers an IoT tool for the health assessment of feed axes and spindles in order to better plan their maintenance periods. In addition, EMAG is constantly developing this solution further, as Patrick Kaiser, data scientist at EMAG, emphasizes in the interview: “The experience and our service flow into this in a targeted manner.”
Faster than shaping, more flexible than hobbing and broaching – in this context, power skiving is a highly effective alternative for gear production. With the new VSC 400 PS machine, EMAG puts the crown on this approach by providing up to four power skiving tools and six turning tools, ensuring highly effective combination machining. And, its operation is simple. A conversation with Daniel Nille, Head of Technology Development at EMAG Maschinenfabrik, discusses the possibilities of this approach and the potential returns of investment.
The challenges for many contract manufactures and smaller manufacturing companies are increasing in the coming years – rising costs for purchasing raw materials, high energy prices and enormous OEM quality requirements point the way ahead. But there are also more and more production technology options for meeting these challenges intelligently. For example, various solutions from the latest generation of automation and robotics are highly interesting for many contract manufacturers. A conversation with Jürgen Maier, Head of the Turning Business Unit at EMAG, about the special possibilities of the EMAG approach.
What does retrofit do? The short answer – many things are possible. Depending on the customer’s wishes, the retrofitted machine not only has new components, but it is also equipped with new automation or additional tool technology. A turning machine, for example, becomes a turning-grinding center. Here we present just two examples among many possible scenarios.
Because its dynamics and motor speeds influence cycle and non-productive times, the spindle is essential for the productivity of a machine tool. However, the central assembly is also subject to wear – after a certain period of use, it must be replaced or overhauled. Learn more from a conversation with Markus Heidel, Head of Retrofit at EMAG, discussing the processes involved in retrofitting spindles.
Automating machine tools using robots creates a lot of benefits for production, making the entire process faster, more cost-efficient and more reliable. EMAG’s pick-up technology is particularly suited for automation because the machines’ internal automation systems mean they can be loaded and unloaded very effectively using robots and can easily be interlinked. A conversation with Stefan Erhardt, head of the Automation and Robotics Business Unit at EMAG, discusses the possibilities with combining robots and EMAG machines in production.
Machine owners who regularly maintain their machines prevent many unplanned downtimes and thus improve the entire production reliability of their facilities. Nevertheless, many users still let their machines run until severe damage has occurred – without ever performing a comprehensive check beforehand. What is important when it comes to inspection and maintenance, and what opportunities does IoT technology offer in this regard? A conversation with Patrick Theiss, head of the After Sales/Service business unit at EMAG.
There is no “one” best method for cleaning or de-coating workpieces. After all, the choice of method comes down to basic conditions and objectives in the production process. In this sense, laser cleaning is not a one-to-one substitute for traditional washing either but does frequently have an advantage.