Contact us today:
(847) 934-4500
tdaro@bernardandcompany.com
Contact us today:
(847) 934-4500
tdaro@bernardandcompany.com
Partnering with ANCA gave a boost of confidence to the Bengaluru-based company, which extensively uses ANCA machines to make precision cutting tools, prepare blanks, and regrind tools
From a conventional machine operator to the founder of a company that manufactures high-precision cutting tools that employs over 30 people. Sounds like an unbelievable success story? Well, this perfectly describes the journey of Kumar A., a passionate cutting toolmaker from Bengaluru, India. Kumar’s cutting tool manufacturing company, SST Cutting Tools, relies on high-end grinding machines from ANCA to manufacture customized tools for aerospace, defense, and automotive applications. Here’s how it all began…
Journey of growth with ANCA
Kumar started SST Cutting Tools in the middle of the global recession in 2008 with a single tool and cutter grinding machine. The company now has four ANCA machines and many delighted customers.
“I started with one conventional machine and used to regrind tools. My work was received well in the industry and soon I added more conventional machines and operators, but we were not able to speed up the process and procure orders that needed high precision. That’s when I thought of investing in a CNC grinding machine,” says Kumar.
“I had absolutely no idea about CNC grinding machines, as I had never operated one before. All I knew was that I wanted the best one. I evaluated several global brands and found ANCA to be best suited for my application. More than anything, I needed a user-friendly machine, as none of the team members, including me, had any experience with CNC grinding machines,” adds Kumar.
Enhanced output, efficiency, accuracy
SST Cutting Tools added an ANCA FX3 with linear scale technology, which can produce tools with an accuracy of three microns. “We were amazed by the machine’s output and speed. Our efficiency and accuracy went up. This provided a boost to our much-needed confidence and now we’re out in the market looking for precision cutting tools requirements,” says Kumar.
As orders increased, the company grew. A plot of land was purchased and construction of its factory began in 2016. “We were small players, but I always maintained one thing – never compromise on technology. Moving to the new factory in 2017, we added a Zoller tool inspection machine, which could measure any kind of tool profiles with the accuracy of one micron,” he explains.
The company started taking precision cutting tool orders, with many happy customers. “We received several repeat orders and a lot of new inquiries. We needed to enhance our efficiency further by reducing the setup time. I discussed this challenge with the ANCA team, and they suggested the ANCA FX5 fully automatic linear machine. I saw the demo, observed all the features, and opted for it in March 2018. It was the perfect match for my requirements. The machine is equipped with a 2-wheel changer that helps us reduce the number of setups,” informs Kumar. SST added one more advanced version of the ANCA FX5 in 2019. It is fully automatic and provides high accuracy and an in-process measuring camera.
It’s all about meeting requirements
One of the most important and challenging activities for cutting tool manufacturers is to prepare precision blanks with close tolerances. The right blank can define the overall cutting tool. “With time, customers have also become very demanding. They want a cost-effective and accurate product on time. However, in 2021, the volume of orders we had in our current setup needed an upgrade, especially for the preparation of blanks. I wanted to reduce the blank preparation time with 100% accuracy and decided to opt for the ANCA 4 Axes CPX blank preparation machine,” says Kumar.
The CPX Linear is capable of achieving a surface finish better than 0.2Ra with a run out of less than two microns. “With the addition of a CPX Linear, we can make tools in a few hours, thereby meeting urgent requirements,” he adds.
Focus on quality, accuracy for applications
Talking about his vision, Kumar says, “I want to be a world-class manufacturer of cutting tools and provide services to the customer’s speculated time with zero defects and a high degree of accuracy.”
The company specializes in customized cutting tools such as drills with sizes ranging from Ø1 to Ø25 with the L/D ratio of Ø X 12; endmills with sizes ranging from 0.8mm to 25mm and 2flutes to 12flutes; and reamers and holemills, with sizes ranging from 1mm to 25mm, within the tolerance of 0.002 mm. Additionally, the company works with threading tools, boring tools, ID and OD grooving tools, pico bars, and angle grooving tools.
Kumar comes from a very humble background. At the age when most children enjoy their school days, he worked part-time to make ends meet. At the age of 18, Kumar started working as a machine operator in one of the job shops in Bengaluru, the IT and manufacturing hub of India. Motivated to learn more, he took up a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in the evenings.
“I wanted to learn the fundamentals of mechanical engineering, the functionality of the latest machines, and various advantages of grinding applications. I used to work for 10-12 hours during the day and attend classes in the evening,” he recalls.
SST Cutting Tools’ drive and versatility is also highlighted in their multiple #ANCATooloftheYear entries, showcasing their skill and creativity with ANCA software as well as an enthusiastic commitment to the community of cutting tool manufacturers.
Proudly highlighting one of his projects, Kumar says, “When COVID cases were at their peak, we did our small bit by helping the Indian government make ventilator parts quickly with the help of our ANCA machines. Since the project was related to medical equipment, the accuracy and surface finish needed were high and the turnaround time was short. We acted quickly, gathered all our technical staff and halted all our other projects. I am glad we were able to play a small role in the fight against Corona.”
More growth ahead at home and abroad
After close to 15 years of operations and many happy customers in India, the company is now eyeing exports, and expanding their infrastructure to accommodate more machines. “We are looking forward to adding more ANCA machines in the coming days,” says Kumar.
He adds, “We have big plans for the future. However, it is worth looking back at the journey and remembering all that has worked in our favor. Choosing ANCA was one of the best decisions in my career. ANCA has not only enhanced the efficiency and productivity of SST Cutting Tools, it has also given our confidence the much-needed boost.”
“The ANCA team is well-versed with the technical know-how and their service is nothing short of excellent. Whenever we faced any technical hurdles, the team would quickly respond. We never had to face any major delays in our projects thanks to their prompt support. In fact, there have been instances of executives from ANCA flying down to Bengaluru from Australia only to help us better understand the machine’s features. I am looking forward to working with ANCA; they are our growth partner and not just a vendor,” concludes Kumar.
For further information, please contact:
Amanda Bakun
Marketing & Communications Manager – Americas
248-497-1168
amanda.bakun@anca.com
ANCA is a market leading manufacturer of CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia where the company still has its global headquarters. ANCA has offices in the UK, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil and the USA as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide.
ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across a diverse range of competitive industries including cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and medical.
A master craftsperson and precision tool mechanic, Lena was the first female at her school to undertake this prestigious degree
As part of their esteemed Tool of the Year event, ANCA introduced an exclusive new category for Female Machinists. A panel of experienced professionals evaluated submissions using the following criteria:
Johanna Boland, Strategy and Communications Manager at ANCA, expressed her pride on introducing the first ever Female Machinist of the Year award for ANCA. “Since joining this industry I have met and worked with some truly intelligent, driven female leaders. However, let’s face it, female machinists are not that common and encouraging diversity can only make our sector stronger and more successful.”
“Women considering a career in our industry need to see there are real and exciting pathways open to them. All the entrants are fantastic examples that ANCA has been proud to showcase and celebrate, taking a step further to increase the visibility of female machinists!”
The winner, Lena Risse from Risse Tool Technology in Germany demonstrates the passion and dedication of women in the industry. Having completed an apprenticeship as a precision tool mechanic, she was the first female in a decade in her region to pursue a specialist master’s degree in the field.
Lena advocates for process optimization in production and hopes to inspire more women to enter this profession by setting a positive example of how women can excel in precision tool manufacturing.
Lena said, “I think it’s very important to give women a stage in our industry. Of course, it’s great to win this competition, but I am also grateful that this platform now exists. I enjoy showing with my work that not only men can grind top tools, but in some situations it’s women who find the better solutions.”
“I am the first woman to take up the Master’s degree as a precision tool mechanic at my university, Jakob Preh School in Bad Neustadt an der Saale. Even in training, female classmates are a rarity and I am fighting to break down typical gender stereotypes. Through my work, I hope to encourage many women to dare to do an apprenticeship in the skilled trades so that the industry will continue to develop in the coming years thanks to the clever ideas of courageous women.”
Female Machinist Award
Winner: Lena Risse, Precision Toolmaker at Risse Tool Technology GmbH
Lena has completed an apprenticeship as a precision tool mechanic immediately after her high school graduation and is pursuing her master’s degree. She is particularly interested in the optimization of production processes and hopes to inspire more women to enter precision tool manufacturing.
Second place: Christina Diamantidis, Tool Grinder CNC, Fraisa GmbH
Christina has been working at Fraisa GmbH for 13 years with a total of 18 years of experience in the industry. Christina is highly qualified and displays a profound passion for the profession of tool grinding. Most notably Christina is currently involved in a groundbreaking project in collaboration with a university, aiming to optimize the re-tooling process through digitization and the use of artificial intelligence. This innovative approach underscores the growing recognition of AI in this industry and its significant role in the future.
Third place: Kajal Bharat Padwal, Senior Production Engineer at Hrithik Tools PVT LTD
Kajal has been working at Hrithik Tools PVT LTDfor six years, specializing in operating ANCA machines. One project Kajal delivered was to create superior wear resistance and extend tool life where she worked closely with abrasive manufacturers to develop specialized grinding wheels for high-speed steel tool grinding. Kajal stands out with exceptional qualifications, is a dedicated team player and approaches her work with great enthusiasm.
Fourth place: Ellen Robson, Renovo Solutions
Ellen is a talented grinder from the northeast of England with great enthusiasm and passion. She dedicates herself to crafting cutting tools and has accumulated four years of experience in this field. Ellen demonstrated outstanding skills and solution-oriented business mindset and is someone who tackles challenges and always looks beyond the horizon to find innovative solutions. She sees herself as a role model for other female grinders, and we thank Ellen for her outstanding application.
For further information, please contact:
Amanda Bakun
Marketing & Communications Manager – Americas
248-497-1168
amanda.bakun@anca.com
ANCA is a market leading manufacturer of CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia where the company still has its global headquarters. ANCA has offices in the UK, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil and the USA as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide.
ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across a diverse range of competitive industries including cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and medical.
Continue reading
Major Italian supplier of intralogistic metal handling systems emerges here
Matter SRL Managing Director Giuseppe Rotondi today announces the recent formation of Matter USA Corporation, the company’s new subsidiary for application engineering, sales and service for this major Italian builder of custom and modular Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS) for the metals industry. Matter systems are found in mills, metal service centers and metals processing plants worldwide. The company recently exhibited its offerings at FABTECH in Chicago.
Matter systems comprise custom-designed Matter Pro automated intralogistic warehouses for automated storage and handling of large quantities of bar, profile, tube, billet, sheet and slab metal materials, as well as dies and other processing components. These automated warehouse systems are designed to optimize space by increasing the quantity of stored material per square meter, thereby maximizing the efficiency of handling and utilization of plant space. All Matter Pro systems are designed to customer specifications yet offer flexibility and myriad handling options.
Meanwhile, Matt Box systems offer modular and multi-purpose automated warehouse concepts, designed for smaller quantities of material. They are the preferred option for job shops, smaller production departments and specialty metals distributors.
As VP of sales Alec Banish explains, “The degree of automation in the market today is moving very quickly and our systems offer the North American market flexibility, turnkey materials handling and the safety of a totally automated system, plus the security of an under-roof operation, which significantly reduces material damage, and provides instant access to your inventory without human intervention.”
Matter is a global force in automated materials handling and storage systems (ASRS) for the metals industry, as the company assists its customers with full analysis of their production process, then executes the design, engineering, build, test, installation, commissioning and after-sales service of its systems. Matter uses leading-edge software and automation components in its designs. In use, a Matter system offers its users complete data tracking on all materials and product bundles to further the efficiency and effectiveness of a company’s ERP.
As Giuseppe Rotondi notes, “We are very enthusiastic for Matter USA. Our company has developed many innovative solutions for the metals handling market and the establishment of Matter USA will further enhance our presence in the North American market, bringing those solutions to many current and, I’m certain, future customers.”
Matter USA will be based in Texas and serve the North American market, operating in tandem with their longtime rep group, Robert Warnock Co., Inc.
Matter has several systems currently operating in North America at major pipe and tube producers as well as major metal service centers.
To view a variety of Matter systems in action, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/user/mattersrl
For more information on this development, please contact:
MATTER USA CORPORATION
1800 West Loop South
Suite 1740
Houston, Texas 77027 (USA)
Phone: 205-830-3337
info@matterusacorp.com
E-Z Lok, a leading manufacturer and master distributor of threaded inserts for metal, plastic and wood is now offering E-Z Sonic™ with Threaded Insert Assortment kits.
E-Z Sonic™ inserts are designed for post-molding installation in thermoplastic materials such as: acrylic, polypropylene and PVC. Machined out of high-quality brass and available with both inch and metric threads, these inserts are durable enough for the toughest environments and versatile enough to meet the needs of any application. Designs include tapered and straight that can be installed either with an ultrasonic horn or a heat driver. Additional features are superior torque and pull-out resistance, inch or metric threads, tapered design in single and double vane and straight design in flush or flanged configuration.
Straight inserts provide superior torque and pull-out resistance, while allowing for thinner boss walls. Flush inserts allow for installation even with or below the material surface. Flanged inserts are ideal for electrical connections or for additional pull-out resistance in reverse installations. Furthermore, E-Z Sonic™ straight threaded ultrasonic inserts feature a lead-in pilot to facilitate installation. Machined out of brass, the inserts are available with internal threads from 2 in. to 3/8 in.
Tapered inserts are designed to reduce installation time, particularly in production runs, while maintaining outstanding performance characteristics. E-Z Sonic™ tapered ultrasonic inserts are machined out of brass and are available in single and double-vane lengths for maximum design flexibility. Internal threads from 2 to 3/8 in. and 2.5 mm to 6 mm are available.
Besides being ideal for post-molding installation in thermoplastics, the Heat Staking threaded insert assortment kits quickly add machine threads to 3D printed parts and prototypes. Design engineers and hobbyists alike will find value in the variety of thread options available in the kits. Threaded inserts in the kits are available in tapered and straight designs, with imperial and metric threads. Each kit includes 200 inserts and 5 installation tips for use with a soldering iron.
For more information, please contact:
Kyle Lindsly-Roach, Director of Sales & Marketing
E-Z Lok
240 E. Rosecrans Ave
Gardena, CA 90248
USA
Phone: 310-323-5613 x221
klindsly@ezlok.com
www.ezlok.com
E-Z Lok is a leading manufacturer and master distributor of threaded inserts for metal, plastic and wood. Inserts for metal include solid wall and helical wire-thread inserts, while inserts for plastic feature press-in and ultrasonic/heat stake designs. Those for wood are die cast zinc alloy hex drives for soft wood and brass knife threads for hard wood. A variety of kits for the above inserts are available and feature installation tools, drill bits, etc.
E-Z LOK is a third generation family owned and operated company. Founded in 1956, it primarily sells through local, regional, and national industrial distributors.
Continue reading
Catalog features cut and form knurling, knurling wheels and marking tools
Platinum Tooling, the importer and master distributor of live tools, angle heads, marking tools, Swiss tools and multi-spindle tools manufactured by various global suppliers, is the North American importer of the QUICK knurling and marking tools from Hommel & Keller. They have just released the full tooling catalog.
Hommel & Keller manufactures the QUICK line with a combination of function and innovation. Quality, precision and stability are the key principals used to make QUICK® tools successful. Furthermore, the company prides itself on a rich history of providing customized solutions for its customers.
Benefits of cut knurling include maximum precision and surface quality, knurling of thin-walled components without deformation and time savings due to faster cutting speed and feed rate. Additional advantages are machining of virtually all materials (including gray cast iron and plastic), zero or only minimal alternation of the workpiece diameter and minimal surface compaction.
In form knurling, machining of the workpiece by cold forming compresses the surface of the workpiece. Knurling is possible up to a workpiece shoulder, at any position of the workpiece of the inner and end faces as well as conical. All knurling profiles according to DIN 82 can be produced.
Among its offering, QUICK also has knurling tools with interchangeable jaws and knurling wheels available from stock. Wheels with special dimensions and pitches can be customized.
QUICK marking tools can mark workpieces in seconds and on a wide variety of geometries independent of workpiece diameter. They are ideal for machines with small installation space and can mark up to a shoulder.
To download the full catalog, click: https://platinumtooling.com/catalog/quick-catalog/
For further information, please contact:
Preben Hansen, President
PLATINUM TOOLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
16 E. Piper Lane
Suite 128
Prospect Heights, IL 60070
Phone: 847-749-0633
Fax: 847-749-2445
Email: phansen@platinumtooling.com
Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. in Prospect Heights, IL, near Chicago, serves its growing North American customer base with an extensive inventory of machine tool accessories. Its experienced staff is dedicated to providing the most innovative tooling and technology. Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. serves the auto, aero, medical, woodworking, composites and other industries, as well as an ever-increasing number of machine tool OEMs, through its network of manufacturers’ representatives. Platinum Tooling is the importer of Heimatec, Henninger, Tecnicrafts, Hommel + Keller QUICK tools and REV broaching tools in North America. In addition, Platinum Tooling represents Rineck Shrink Fit Tooling in the United States and Mexico.
Brings additional technology and customer base to leading manufacturer
Wardwell Braiding Company announces its acquisition of Cobra Braiding Machinery and the company assets, effective immediately. The announcement was made by Wardwell Vice President John Tomaz at the company’s headquarters in Rhode Island (USA).
According to Mr. Tomaz, “Wardwell and Cobra have been friendly competitors for many years on the global market in wire and cable harnessing and when this opportunity for acquisition arose, we knew it was a great fit for our company and our customers. I have the highest respect for the Cobra line of braiders and especially the company’s managing director, Neil Hyde.” Mr. Hyde will remain active in the company as general manager for a period of time yet to be determined, according to Mr. Tomaz.
Established in the UK in 1981, Cobra is a family-run company now in its fourth generation. Innovation, quality and service have allowed Cobra to develop a strong reputation as a leading manufacturer of wire harness and cable harness braiding machinery.
Cobra manufactures and supplies braiding machines and equipment for a wide range of wiring harness markets including heavy vehicles, agricultural equipment, construction and mining equipment, military and defense vehicles, marine engines and aerospace. 95% of the braiding machines Cobra manufactures are exported overseas to countries including the USA, Mexico, Europe, China, Japan and Australia. “Teaming up with Wardwell gives us the confidence that our customers will continue to receive the performance and support they are accustomed to getting from Cobra,” said Neil Hyde.
Wardwell is a member of the Wilms Group which includes other major equipment manufacturers around the world such as SKET, Henrich and Spirka-Schnellflechter. This global network of suppliers to the industry has improved each member’s market position. The Wardwell braiding machine offerings will now include the entire Cobra line, highlighted by the industry-recognized Cobra 450, according to John Tomaz. “We see the Cobra line, when joined with ours, creating a positive synergy in sales and marketing for us on a global scale.”
For more information on this development, please contact:
John Tomaz, Vice President
Wardwell Braiding Co.
1211 High Street
Central Falls, Rhode Island 02863
USA
Phone: 401-724-8800
Web: www.wardwell.com
Email: sales@wardwell.com
Wardwell is a world-leading supplier of braiding equipment. Since its founding in 1911 by Simon Wardwell, the Company’s engineers have continually introduced advancements in machine technology that have made Wardwell braiders the industry standard for overall value.
Wardwell machines are entirely designed, engineered, manufactured, tested and shipped from its factory in Central Falls, Rhode Island, near Providence. Our global network of partner companies reaches all industrialized countries.
Continue reading
With the FZU/FZP42 machine line, Zimmermann Inc. offers users efficient 5-axis portal milling machines for heavy workpiece machining. The specific aspect of these improved machines is a thermo-symmetrical design, incorporating a centrally-guided Z-slide. This particular construction, as well as the guide layout, increases machine stability, while also saving weight – resulting in a more dynamic, productive and energy-efficient machine.
“We have developed suitable machine designs for light processing, such as composite materials or aluminum used in aerospace, as well as for highly dynamic heavy machining,” reports Cornelius Kiesel, president at Zimmermann Inc. in Detroit, the U.S. operation of F. Zimmermann in Germany. While further developing its machine portfolio in the last several months, heavy machining for automotive, other transportation and off-highway are gaining an even higher priority in the company’s market targets. At the same time, Zimmermann is on the cutting-edge in its traditional segments, explains Frieder Gaenzle, CEO of F. Zimmermann. “We are focusing less on classic heavy machining, using large tools and high material removal rates per cut. Instead, the FZU/FZP42 model range provides tool and mold makers with a 5-axis system for highly complex components, which enables more dynamic milling of free-form surfaces.”
Dynamic heavy machining is precisely the challenge in this new market segment. Because the more difficult it is to process the materials, the higher the requirements for rigidity in the machine, Kiesel further notes. Weighting in at several tons on average, the machines are quite massive. How can this massive design deliver great dynamics, so that users can work even more productively?
“Our machines mill out contours with a maximum speed of 60 m/min and may accelerate with 3 m/s2, if needed. “This resembles a motorcyclist, accelerating in a curve to run it more dynamically,” says Kiesel. Despite the acceleration, the machines must be able achieve very high accuracy as well as high-quality surfaces. “This connection of dynamics and heavy machining may be compared to a truck, loaded with stones, performing in a Formula 1 race,” Kiesel muses.
Thermo-symmetry for more precision
In order to achieve this result, Zimmermann is setting up its complete machine portfolio thermo(load)-symmetrically. This occurs because changing ambient temperatures, as well as processing temperatures, inevitably influence machine geometry featuring a portal design. The idea behind a thermo-symmetrical design is based on the ability to substantially absorb incurring thermal influences, achieved by the design of the machine structure itself. Considering this factor, Zimmermann engineering has appropriately designed and intelligently arranged the machine structure and drive unit components and guides, as well as other components responsible for accuracy, for all machines in this newly developed portfolio. In this way, the machine structure may expand in directions that are non-critical.
The centrally guided Z-slide of the portal in double-bridge construction has a large cross-section which makes it especially stable. Using this design, Zimmermann achieves a very high degree of rigidity. Since there is no possible one-sided temperature rise, accuracy is greatly increased, as well. With this structural design, the machine manufacturer constructively reduces the effects of error-inducing variables to a minimum. Due to the fact that less leverage forces apply in comparison to a serial design with a classic guide layout, Zimmermann has increased rigidity of the FZU/FZP, without having to increase the cross- sections of the components. Because less mass needs to be moved, the machine works faster and more dynamically. “Moving less mass also requires less energy. This results in clear cost benefits”, states Kiesel. Additionally, the thermo-symmetrical design makes it possible to omit complex cooling circuits, which also has a positive impact on cost reduction.
By offering the new FZU/FZP42 machine lines, Zimmermann seeks to gain a better foothold in heavy machining. For a long time, the machine manufacturer only occasionally sold systems in this market segment. This has changed following these new developments. “We are already seeing the first successes in the market, says Kiesel. “We were able to sell three ‘heavy’ machines in the first quarter alone.” The company’s customers are equally convinced about the technical data and the price-performance ratio. “A particular customer only wanted to purchase one of our machines for post-processing, since they were already using a heavy machining system provided by a competitor. During the discussions, they then spontaneously decided on a second machine from Zimmermann,” notes Kiesel.
Among the new customers for this line is an automotive manufacturer, who required a new machine for their tool making, in order to process large sheet-metal forming tools and to replace older systems. In the end, Zimmermann was able to successfully assert itself against the competition with its FZU42 machine. The customer realized that this innovative machine concept will enable them to meet their requirements to a high machining accuracy with excellent surfaces on their tools. The high tool weights of up to 40 tons do not pose a problem for the FZU42 system, because the components are not being moved. The movement system, consisting of the portal, Z-slide and milling head, can operate with consistently high dynamics, regardless of the tool weight.
Flexible setup
“We were able to successfully impress the customer with our concept and our price-performance ratio,” says Kiesel. Another important aspect adds to this scenario. The FZU system does not require a solid machine foundation and can therefore be placed flexibly on the factory floor. Extensive construction, which creates high costs and disrupts manufacturing, are completely eliminated.
“We continue to develop and are able to find the right answers for many applications, concludes Frieder Gaenzle. “We have the right overall package. We offer these improved machine concepts in all market segments. Besides the machine structural upsides, these improvements include fitting mounts for the spindles, milling heads for the tools and an extensive service package for our customers.”
About the company
F. Zimmermann GmbH in Germany is a leading global high-tech builder of portal milling machines. These machines are characterized by large workspaces, substantial machine dynamics and cutting performance. The company, founded in 1933 by Friedrich Zimmermann, now has over 250 employees worldwide. With its product range, this innovative company has one goal above all: to offer the right solution for its customers and to be able to guarantee high economic efficiency. “Quality made in Germany” is its motto. Zimmermann special machines are used worldwide in the automotive, aerospace, off-highway, moldmaking and transportation sectors. The company has its North America headquarters in Wixom, Michigan, near Detroit, where it operates a full tech center, offering engineering assistance, commissioning, parts and retrofit services, as well as multiple machines for demonstration purposes.
For more information, please contact:
ZIMMERMANN INC.
30587 Century Drive
Wixom, MI 48393
Phone: 248-956-8511
www.zimmermann-inc.com
Ms. Lena Kiesel, Marketing Manager
lena@zimmermann-inc.com
Guill Tool, global leader in extrusion tooling, recently announced the hire of two new employees. Nick Comeau and Brandon Ribeiro join Guill as Design Engineers. The announcement was made by Chuck Paull, Chief Marketing Officer, at the company’s West Warwick, Rhode Island headquarters.
Nick Comeau obtained his Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Hartford, Connecticut, where he worked part-time as a senior machine shop manager. As a Design Engineer at Guill, he has several responsibilities including new product design concept generation and research and defining customer requirements using job quotations, purchase orders and customer interactions (emails, phone calls, conference calls). He also develops the design concept for customer requirements, works on the detailed design using SolidWorks (Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) programs), database searches, along with proprietary design tools. Next, Comeau prepares the design to release it to operations for manufacture by ensuring accurate and complete drawings and Bill of Materials (BOMs), performs project reviews to define and implement process/product improvements and presents to customers at trade shows.
Brandon Ribeiro received his Mechanical Engineering degree from Roger Williams University, in Bristol, Rhode Island. Before joining Guill, Ribeiro held several positions including metal fabricator, press brake operator, design engineer and automation engineer. His work at Guill involves creating extrusion die assemblies to the requirements specified by the customer. The details are acquired by the sales team along with reference assembly previously created. Once the assembly is completed, Ribeiro contacts the customer to get approval before sending the job to the shop floor for production.
Asked what he likes about working at Guill, Comeau said he’s enjoyed the hands-on-experience and that operating and cleaning assemblies shows the strengths and area for improvement of the current assemblies Guill uses. Discussing what he’s looking forward to learning he said, “I’m looking forward to learning more about CFDs and how similarly we can replicate real world application within a simulation.”
Ribeiro appreciates seeing the friendly faces at Guill that are always ready to lend a helping hand. He’s enjoyed learning how to create complex geometry using the company’s 3D CAD software, SolidWorks.
Commenting on the new hires, Paull said, “We are excited to have Nick and Brandon join the Guill family. They are young professionals eager to learn all they can about the extrusion process to better serve our customers.”
For more information, please contact:
Tom Baldock, Sales Manager, Extrusion
Guill Tool & Engineering
10 Pike Street
West Warwick, RI 02893
USA
Phone: 401-465-5526
tbaldock@guill.com
Partnering with ANCA gave a boost of confidence to the Bengaluru-based company, which extensively uses ANCA machines to make precision cutting tools, prepare blanks, and regrind tools
From a conventional machine operator to the founder of a company that manufactures high-precision cutting tools that employs over 30 people. Sounds like an unbelievable success story? Well, this perfectly describes the journey of Kumar A., a passionate cutting toolmaker from Bengaluru, India. Kumar’s cutting tool manufacturing company, SST Cutting Tools, relies on high-end grinding machines from ANCA to manufacture customized tools for aerospace, defense, and automotive applications. Here’s how it all began…
Journey of growth with ANCA
Kumar started SST Cutting Tools in the middle of the global recession in 2008 with a single tool and cutter grinding machine. The company now has four ANCA machines and many delighted customers.
“I started with one conventional machine and used to regrind tools. My work was received well in the industry and soon I added more conventional machines and operators, but we were not able to speed up the process and procure orders that needed high precision. That’s when I thought of investing in a CNC grinding machine,” says Kumar.
“I had absolutely no idea about CNC grinding machines, as I had never operated one before. All I knew was that I wanted the best one. I evaluated several global brands and found ANCA to be best suited for my application. More than anything, I needed a user-friendly machine, as none of the team members, including me, had any experience with CNC grinding machines,” adds Kumar.
Enhanced output, efficiency, accuracy
SST Cutting Tools added an ANCA FX3 with linear scale technology, which can produce tools with an accuracy of three microns. “We were amazed by the machine’s output and speed. Our efficiency and accuracy went up. This provided a boost to our much-needed confidence and now we’re out in the market looking for precision cutting tools requirements,” says Kumar.
As orders increased, the company grew. A plot of land was purchased and construction of its factory began in 2016. “We were small players, but I always maintained one thing – never compromise on technology. Moving to the new factory in 2017, we added a Zoller tool inspection machine, which could measure any kind of tool profiles with the accuracy of one micron,” he explains.
The company started taking precision cutting tool orders, with many happy customers. “We received several repeat orders and a lot of new inquiries. We needed to enhance our efficiency further by reducing the setup time. I discussed this challenge with the ANCA team, and they suggested the ANCA FX5 fully automatic linear machine. I saw the demo, observed all the features, and opted for it in March 2018. It was the perfect match for my requirements. The machine is equipped with a 2-wheel changer that helps us reduce the number of setups,” informs Kumar. SST added one more advanced version of the ANCA FX5 in 2019. It is fully automatic and provides high accuracy and an in-process measuring camera.
It’s all about meeting requirements
One of the most important and challenging activities for cutting tool manufacturers is to prepare precision blanks with close tolerances. The right blank can define the overall cutting tool. “With time, customers have also become very demanding. They want a cost-effective and accurate product on time. However, in 2021, the volume of orders we had in our current setup needed an upgrade, especially for the preparation of blanks. I wanted to reduce the blank preparation time with 100% accuracy and decided to opt for the ANCA 4 Axes CPX blank preparation machine,” says Kumar.
The CPX Linear is capable of achieving a surface finish better than 0.2Ra with a run out of less than two microns. “With the addition of a CPX Linear, we can make tools in a few hours, thereby meeting urgent requirements,” he adds.
Focus on quality, accuracy for applications
Talking about his vision, Kumar says, “I want to be a world-class manufacturer of cutting tools and provide services to the customer’s speculated time with zero defects and a high degree of accuracy.”
The company specializes in customized cutting tools such as drills with sizes ranging from Ø1 to Ø25 with the L/D ratio of Ø X 12; endmills with sizes ranging from 0.8mm to 25mm and 2flutes to 12flutes; and reamers and holemills, with sizes ranging from 1mm to 25mm, within the tolerance of 0.002 mm. Additionally, the company works with threading tools, boring tools, ID and OD grooving tools, pico bars, and angle grooving tools.
Kumar comes from a very humble background. At the age when most children enjoy their school days, he worked part-time to make ends meet. At the age of 18, Kumar started working as a machine operator in one of the job shops in Bengaluru, the IT and manufacturing hub of India. Motivated to learn more, he took up a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in the evenings.
“I wanted to learn the fundamentals of mechanical engineering, the functionality of the latest machines, and various advantages of grinding applications. I used to work for 10-12 hours during the day and attend classes in the evening,” he recalls.
SST Cutting Tools’ drive and versatility is also highlighted in their multiple #ANCATooloftheYear entries, showcasing their skill and creativity with ANCA software as well as an enthusiastic commitment to the community of cutting tool manufacturers.
Proudly highlighting one of his projects, Kumar says, “When COVID cases were at their peak, we did our small bit by helping the Indian government make ventilator parts quickly with the help of our ANCA machines. Since the project was related to medical equipment, the accuracy and surface finish needed were high and the turnaround time was short. We acted quickly, gathered all our technical staff and halted all our other projects. I am glad we were able to play a small role in the fight against Corona.”
More growth ahead at home and abroad
After close to 15 years of operations and many happy customers in India, the company is now eyeing exports, and expanding their infrastructure to accommodate more machines. “We are looking forward to adding more ANCA machines in the coming days,” says Kumar.
He adds, “We have big plans for the future. However, it is worth looking back at the journey and remembering all that has worked in our favor. Choosing ANCA was one of the best decisions in my career. ANCA has not only enhanced the efficiency and productivity of SST Cutting Tools, it has also given our confidence the much-needed boost.”
“The ANCA team is well-versed with the technical know-how and their service is nothing short of excellent. Whenever we faced any technical hurdles, the team would quickly respond. We never had to face any major delays in our projects thanks to their prompt support. In fact, there have been instances of executives from ANCA flying down to Bengaluru from Australia only to help us better understand the machine’s features. I am looking forward to working with ANCA; they are our growth partner and not just a vendor,” concludes Kumar.
For further information, please contact:
Amanda Bakun
Marketing & Communications Manager – Americas
248-497-1168
amanda.bakun@anca.com
ANCA is a market leading manufacturer of CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia where the company still has its global headquarters. ANCA has offices in the UK, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil and the USA as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide.
ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across a diverse range of competitive industries including cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and medical.
Using MX7 Linear, the Canadian company helps automotive company make tools within spec and regrinds 1,100-1,500 tools each year
Founded in 1987 by Clorindo Mattei, Clortech Precision Cutting Tools is a family business with wife Carmela handling bookkeeping, while son Patrick is the vice-president of production and sisters Emilia and Mena are the managing director and quality assurance director respectively. The company is a Montreal manufacturer of custom precision tools that sells to various industries including aerospace, recreational vehicles, rail and automotive. Products include shafts, gauges, broaches, bushings, extra-long reamers, special diameter formed end mills, special contouring tools.
In the ‘80s and ‘90s, business was made up entirely of aerospace customers. However, events like 9/11 and the global financial crisis, showed how temperamental that sector could be and prompted diversification beyond it. With its high-performance holemaking tools, including drills and special end mills, Clortech expanded into the automotive industry. It also provides drills for rail and tie installers, as well as tools (reaming, milling and holemaking) to help the Canadian Armed Forces in the maintenance and overhaul of tanks and other military equipment. Besides MRO tooling services, they also offer regrinding and reconditioning services to old tools and kit inventory services. Their 360° Approach is aimed at companies that don’t have the necessary resources or workforce to make their own tools, while the AOG 911 service produces or modifies aircraft tools with the shortest lead times.
Currently, the job shop is equipped with CNC lathes, milling machines, cylindrical grinders, tool and cutter grinders and six 8-axis NC ANCA grinding machines (two TG7 Plus grinders, two TX7 machines and two TX7 Linear machines).
While Clortech uses all of its ANCA machines, Patrick Mattei pointed out that more complex/ higher volume parts are manufactured on the ANCA MX7 Linear due to its speed, precision and software which is more detailed than older machines. The machines are used to make round tools such as: endmills, drills and reamers. Most are solid carbide, while some have carbide tips. All tools are manufactured to customer specifications.
Discussing what features stand out on the MX7 Linear, Patrick mentioned the Toolroom software, which allows them to simulate a tool before making it. This greatly reduces scrap. The program’s integrated 3D graphics make on-machine programming easy, as grinding simulation is performed after any parameter change providing instant feedback. When they are satisfied with the geometry, operators take that program and put it on the machine to run it. “The simulation software and offline programming is a very strong feature allowing the machine to run while [operators] work on other programs for different parts that they will be running later. The versatility with lots of axes allow them to make the most intricate type parts.” The importance of the software is further evidenced by the fact that raw materials are very expensive and hard to come by so the ability to run a 3D model of the tool beforehand makes a big difference. Most of the company’s tools are designed from A to Z, offering a turnkey solution. The 3D model can be taken to the customer, and they can simulate the cutting conditions in their machine tool. Thus, Clortech can give the customer something before the actual part is delivered.
Recently, Clortech helped a customer in the automotive industry who was making dovetail type cutters. These cutters require an extremely high degree of precision, and the company couldn’t maintain the tight tolerances. Clortech received the parts and reground them using the MX7. When completed, not only where the tools done within specification but the “product was better than what the customer was making themselves.”
Before they started using ANCA, Patrick mentioned they were doing a lot of work on conventional machines. Challenges they encountered included capacity and precision. The machines ran continuously but couldn’t match the speed and efficiency of a CNC grinder. Another challenge was having enough people to work the machines. With the integrated automation on ANCA machines, one operator can run more than one machine at once, making the company more profitable and efficient. Additionally, Clortech used to regrind 500-1,000 tools conventionally each year. With CNC machines, they are regrinding 1,100-1,500 each year. This is an efficiency improvement of 1000%. Although the set-up time on a CNC machine is longer, the output efficiency outweighs the time it takes.
The company’s first ANCA machine, a TG7 Plus Grinder, was purchased in 1997 after meeting Russell Riddiford at a trade show. At the time, Clortech was looking to purchase a machine and they chose ANCA because of its software features. Patrick believes ANCA machines symbolize efficiency and reliability, as the first one he purchased is still running smoothly.
Patrick considers ANCA “part of the family” and enjoys speaking to the same people who know the company and his needs. He can call ANCA and there is always someone he can talk to regarding software issues, and everything is always resolved in a timely manner. He added that “… if we want to do something on the machine that hasn’t been done before, ANCA can even develop software for the product. They are always solution focused and working to figure out how to resolve any issue.”
For further information, please contact:
Amanda Bakun
Marketing & Communications Manager, Americas-ANCA
M: +1 248 497 1168
amanda.bakun@anca.com
ANCA is a market leading manufacturer of CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia where the company still has its global headquarters. ANCA has offices in the UK, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil and the USA as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide.
ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across a diverse range of competitive industries including cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and medical.
