Cutting Tool Measurement, Compensation Expands to Meet Tool Needs

Zoller measurement machines and ANCA software are intended to easily communicate with each other, simplifying and improving tool measurement, wheel measurement, form measurement and compensation processes. The partnership between the two companies aims to provide benefits to customers by automating and refining the tool measurement process. For cutting tool manufacturers, it is imperative to ensure geometry is precise to maintain superior cutting performance.

Zoller measurement machines are effective tools for measuring complex geometry of cutting tools. The Zoller system is set to automatically measure a diverse range of tool features. According to the company, Zoller is typically used for more detailed tool measurement during tool setup or intermittently during batch runs to ensure features remain in tolerance.

Data can be transferred using a direct network communication if both Zoller and ANCA machines are on the same network. In addition, data can also be transmitted through a USB stick.

In developing a measurement and feedback process, ANCA and Zoller worked together to agree upon a fixed Zoller measurement process and a fixed ANCA grinding parameter adjustment which are directly linked. Wheel adjustments are not supported as an option for this method of compensation; adjustments are applied to parameters for compensation without changing the design parameters.

In a cooperative development with Zoller, the range of tool features that can be measured for providing direct feedback to an ANCA grinding program has been expanded. Many of the features included were done at the request of customers, the company says.

According to the companies, the ToolRoom Measurement Wizard remains the easiest way to set up ANCA-Zoller measurement feedback. The Wizard guides the user through the available list of features for a given tool. The user can then select which features can be measured and have compensation applied.