METAV Digital 2021 Showcases Flexible Automation Solutions and Digitalisation

Frankfurt am Main, Germany – METAV digital, the industry event for production technology from March 23-26, 2021, focuses on precision tools and processing machines as well as act as a platform where production experts get together to compare notes. In addition to machining technologies, the spotlight will also be on automation solutions designed to raise the efficiency levels in production especially more so now since the arrival of Industry 4.0.

Innovative ways to reduce cost of production

Grooving, side turning and slot milling tools developer, Paul Horn GmbH focuses on tools for bevel gear cutting as well as for the precision deburring of gears at the digital event, and interlocking is set to play a decisive part for the company. In addition, it will present innovations in the fields of high-feed milling, high-gloss machining, grooving, profile turning and shaping. Robotics, automation, and digitalization are on the rise and are useful additions in many areas, helping reduce locational disadvantages in comparison to low-wage countries. “Horn has worked closely with the Kistler Group to refine a globally unique solution for real-time tool monitoring. The innovative PTS system is ideal for use in turning operations,” explained Christian Thiele, Press Spokesman and Head of Communications, Paul Horn GmbH. “Alternative measurement methods are less effective here because of the small deviations.” The solution does not involve intervention in the CNC control, the application is machine-independent and only takes up a small amount of space in the machine. PTS use reduces production costs and inverses production capacity.

Refining machine tool digitalization

Hallein-based machine tool manufacturer in Austria, Emco GmbH, looks forward to connecting with all interested parties and customers through the secured platform at the event. It offers solutions through machine tools, flexible software platform (Emconnect), and a complete automation package, to digitalize production for manufacturers. The company expanded its successful MMV series and the 5-axis moving column machining centres are available with extended traverse paths (X= 4200 / 5200 / 6200 mm). The systems can be used for the complete machining of large and heavy parts in a single clamping for workpieces up to 8,000 kg. The automation options of the Umill series of universal machining centres represent a further highlight with available customized solutions for almost all variants of certain processing machines. Or efficient and flexible adaptable automation solutions for the smaller Umill models, the compact dimensions, short set-up and makeready times and simple operation of which are particularly impressive. These solutions are also available for Emco lathes. “Digitalization of machine tools is being talked about by everyone in the industry – we're constantly refining it, making it less complicated and more accessible for users,” reported Dr Stefan Hansch, CEO, Emco GmbH.

World firsts at the digital event

Ettlingen based tool specialist, Iscar Germany GmbH, will be presenting several world firsts from its new Neologiq campaign. These include solutions for turning, grooving, drilling, and milling along with a number of innovative digital tools, as well as showcasing tools offering extremely high productivity. “Iscar has developed tools that require no set-up time. Furthermore, we offer tools in all product ranges that are ideally suited for high-performance cutting,” explained Erich Timons, CTO / Technical Director and Member of the Executive Board, Iscar Germany GmbH, as many companies are currently struggling with smaller batch sizes and machine set-up times.

Modular robotics for flexible solutions

TU Dortmund University sees an excellent opportunity to network in the interactive 3D experience event, as it has set up several interdisciplinary projects aimed at exploring the various challenges facing industrial production. In addition to research projects such as the ‘Adaptive Intelligence of Factories in a Dynamic and Complex Environment’ research group or the ‘Availability of Information through Analysis under Resource Constraints’ collaborative research centre are exploring key ideas that can be put into practice within the framework of industrial partnerships. And new solutions are available for special tasks, such as [Tool]prep integrated cutting-edge preparation for tool grinding machines.

During the corona conditions, integrative solutions with end-to-end connectivity and extensive automation have become even more important for manufacturing companies. It is essential to network people, machines, and companies if overall increases in productivity and sustainability are to be obtained. “The development of interface standards is therefore crucial for achieving this within a reasonable space of time,” added Prof Dirk Biermann, TU Dortmund University, Head - Institute of Machining Technology (ISF) and Member - WGP (German Academic Association for Production Technology). “Furthermore, there are some interesting developments that allow secure processing and analysis of sensitive data locally. Intelligent edge systems can use these to provide data protection of AI-based applications in the end device.”

Image Source: VDW/ METAV