The launch of its VGrind 160 grinding machine sees Vollmer (www.vollmer-group.com) enter the global market for processing solid-carbide cutting tools.

Furthermore, the machine features two spindles, thereby allowing manufacturers to produce large numbers of solid-carbide milling cutters and drills quickly and precisely.

Stefan Brand, managing director of the Vollmer Group, says: “With the VGrind 160, we are establishing ourselves in the international tool-grinding market for the first
time. For us, this is a logical step that will see Vollmer develop its core competency in sharpening and further strengthen the company’s international position as a solutions provider for tool production.”

The VGrind 160 features five CNC axes and can produce solid-carbide drills and milling cutters with diameters from 2 to 20mm; and thanks to short linear-axis travel distances and swivel ranges, the VGrind 160 allows customers to reduce machining times.

Moreover, non-productive times are shortened because the two grinding spindles can be loaded with different tools — plus there is the option of a tool magazine with six grinding-wheel packages that allows tools to be changed over automatically.

Meanwhile, a pallet-type magazine for up to 550 workpieces, as well as further automation solutions, ensures optimal machine utilisation.

The VGrind 160’s multi-level machining ensures precise results, as a workpiece is only ever machined on the fixed bearing side of a grinding wheel set. Furthermore, the set is
always located at the C-axis pivot point, as this allows an accurate sharpening process.

Also contributing to accuracy is a polymer-concrete bed that provides good damping characteristics.