Walter AG (www.walter-tools.com) — a leading provider of specialised machining solutions that has a UK subsidiary in Bromsgrove) — says its C-line automated-carousel tool-vending station is the ideal entry route for companies looking for fully digitised tool management.

“The new machine has tool compartment sizes and spacings that can be easily and quickly adjusted, enabling a user to make an immediate start in tool management and subsequently make any adjustments that may be necessary. This compares to a traditional drawer system, for example, where a time-consuming detailed overview of quantities, sizes and frequency of removal/use is often needed before the system can be utilised.”

Walter says that the C-line station will also enable users to quickly identify areas that have the potential for optimisation; indeed, the company suggests that around half of the cost-driving factors in tool logistics will be identified by this tool management system.

It also says that tool costs usually represent about 6% of total production costs, and that all the logistics processes surrounding tool procurement and maintenance have considerable potential for optimisation and cost reduction.

“Savings in such areas will soon prompt users’ next steps in digitally supported tool management. For example, instead of a central dispensing point that logs tool output and input while also taking care of reconditioning, automated tool stations can be positioned throughout the shopfloor, and feedback can be sent automatically to the purchasing division, with re-orders being placed according to demand — via the purchasing team or tool supplier.

"We have installed this easily accessible form of data-based tool management for numerous customers, and the automated tool stations can hold any tools required — not just those supplied by Walter.

“The highly detailed data relating to the control and analysis of a tool’s lifetime within a company is based on Walter software that processes live production and tool logistics data in line with the scope of production; the system also calculates what tools are required and in what quantities to machine the next components.

"Furthermore, the software’s analysis capabilities can — for example — also highlight peaks in consumption.”

With its Walter Multiply service programme, the company offers a range of solutions, from tool dispensing through to digital analysis and control of the tool management system, including installing and equipping individual dispensing cabinets.