»mμFocus« – Measurement with the Highest Precision

WEMA Zerspanungswerkzeuge GmbH in Pfaffenhofen benefits from proven and innovative optical measurement technology from ZOLLER. Special tools with cutting geometries specifically adapted to materials, in particular, require comprehensive quality assurance. Florian Prem is convinced of this. 

He is a third-generation managing director and is responsible for technical development and process control at WEMA Zerspanungswerkzeuge GmbH in Pfaffenhofen, Bavaria. As Florian Prem emphasizes, it is absolutely essential—especially for special-purpose tools—to fully measure and inspect all ground cutting edge geometries. “This is the only way we can ensure that the designed tools, with their special cutting edges, also meet the requirements placed on them. Using the measurement methods that have been standard for many years, we can adequately capture and measure the essential shapes and dimensions of tool cutting edges on drills and milling tools.” 

For this purpose, WEMA uses, for example, a »pomBasic« inspection system from ZOLLER. The cutting edges of ground tools are inspected and measured using the reflected light method. To verify the contours and dimensions, the operator compares the geometries of the tool cutting edges on the large screen with an overlaid contour that matches the CAD design exactly and measures them using an on-screen ruler. This allows the operator to quickly and reliably determine whether the ground milling and drilling tools meet the specifications.

 

Perform precise rounding of the cut edges

To ensure that specialists work exclusively with precisely profiled sets of grinding wheels during the grinding process, WEMA uses ZOLLER’s »smartCheck« measuring device, which has proven its effectiveness over many years. This universal measuring device displays the contours of the ground grinding wheels via a projection. These can then be measured and documented using the enlarged image on the color screen. 

However, according to Florian Prem, it is essential to supplement the tried-and-true measurement methods used to date. Increasingly, our customers are asking us to round the cutting edges of ground drill bits and end mills according to individual specifications. Of course, we must document that we meet these specifications. This is only possible with innovative technologies. That is why we have invested in the »mμFocus« measuring device from ZOLLER». Florian Prem can fully justify his decision in favor of ZOLLER technology: «Comparisons between different measuring devices and procedures have clearly demonstrated ZOLLER’s exceptional expertise. 

Measuring cutting edges is quick, easy, and reliable. At our company, even apprentices can work with the »mμFocus« measuring device». At WEMA, Thomas Gruber is the one who primarily uses the measuring device to verify and document the rounding of cutting edges. He completed his training just a few months ago and now works in the cutting tool post-processing department. He is primarily responsible for rounding high-performance drill bits according to individual specifications using various types of rounding. «

To do this, he makes full use of the advantages of the ZOLLER »mμFocus« measuring device. Operation is extremely simple. Above all, the measuring device requires minimal setup effort. I can position the tools to be measured quickly and easily and focus on the cutting edge to be measured». The enlarged display of the cutting edges on the screen is a great help in this regard. The fully automatic measurement process takes only about a minute. «Afterward, just a few taps on the touchscreen and clicks with the mouse are enough to view, analyze»,« and document the measurement results», explains Thomas Gruber.«

These short measurement cycles allow you to fully measure and document each of the sanded tools. For a detailed analysis of edge rounding, the measuring device provides a selectable number of cross-sections within the measurement area. The rounding can be measured and verified by comparing it to a circular shape displayed on the color screen.

They meet the expectations of specialized staff and integrate seamlessly into daily processes. In addition, there is a cordial partnership with the manufacturer, which is geared toward medium-sized companies. At ZOLLER, they always listen carefully to our wishes and suggestions. The specialists in Pleidelsheim continuously develop measurement technology in line with practical needs and requirements. As a result, ZOLLER’s measurement technology solutions also offer WEMA some additional, customized functions and options for documenting measurement results directly on their measuring devices and in their software. 

As Florian Prem confirms, ZOLLER’s experts consistently impress with their high level of expertise and qualifications. When it comes to innovative, practical measurement technology for tool grinders and manufacturers, we have undoubtedly chosen the right partner in ZOLLER», agree Florian and Max Prem.«

Extremely precise measurements

As Florian Prem notes, radii between 10 and 20 μm are typically required. ZOLLER’s »mμFocus« measuring machine is capable of reliably measuring radii on cutting edges with a repeatability of less than 1 μm. Florian Prem highlights additional benefits of the quick and easy measurements performed with the »mμFocus« measuring machine: "Even in the field of quality assurance, we must meet increasingly stringent requirements. Whereas in the past it was customary and sufficient to statistically measure about one tool in ten or even one in twenty, many manufacturing companies now require that we measure and document every single tool without exception. Naturally, the simple, fast, and reliable measurement with ZOLLER’s »mμFocus« measuring machine is a great help to us."

Florian Prem highlights as a further advantage the fact that the features and functions of ZOLLER measuring machines are tailored to user needs. His father, Max Prem, owner and co-managing director of WEMA Utensili di truciolatura GmbH, adds: "For many years, we have had excellent experiences specifically with ZOLLER measuring machines. They are perfectly suited for use in production."


The controls are extremely simple. With just a few taps on the touchscreen and clicks of the mouse, you can view, analyze, and document the measurement results.

Florian Prem Managing Director of WEMA Utensili di Truciolatura GmbH