The lightweight and robust linear units in the Movitec product line enable the construction of sturdy and rigid gantries - without additional structures. © Dr. Tretter

How do you respond to special customer requirements, for example if the application cannot be implemented using the modular system?

The design and production of the Movitec series is precisely tailored to special requirements. For example, we can quickly produce linear units with special lengths, special surface treatments or with customer attachments. We design the linear axes to suit the application - for example, if they are used in foundries and need to be particularly robust or if very high precision is required for PCB assembly.

What direction is your further development of these components heading in, and what advantages will machine manufacturers benefit from?

We consistently continue to optimize the components. This applies in particular to their mechanical properties and cost-effectiveness. The aim is to be able to offer the customer a linear unit or multi-axis system that is perfectly dimensioned for their task - and at attractive conditions in terms of price and delivery time.

You presented trapezoidal screw drives for the first time in Stuttgart. Why did you include these components in your range?

More and more customers approached us and asked for these components. And the trapezoidal screws complement our wide-ranging product portfolio very well. In certain applications, they can be an economical alternative to the more expensive and more precise ball screws. Trapezoidal screws consist of the trapezoidal screw spindle and a trapezoidal screw nut. High strength can be achieved by rolling the trapezoidal screw spindle. If the thread flanks also have a high surface quality, the unit achieves exceptionally good running properties. They also require less installation space. Our trapezoidal screw drives are manufactured exclusively in Germany. This enables us to ensure short delivery times.

How specifically can you respond to your customers' applications?

We cover a wide range of diameters and pitches with our trapezoidal screw drives. We machine the ends of the rods according to customer drawings. The maximum length that we manufacture is six meters. With butt joints, users can assemble the shafts to any length beyond six meters. Our expertise lies primarily in the cost-effective machining of small and medium quantities. Our customers particularly appreciate the fact that we can also offer prompt processing of shafts for very small quantities and individual parts. We have eight highly flexible lathes and three milling machines at our disposal for this purpose. We are also able to supply special materials and surface treatments at any time.

Where can they ideally be used?

This is just as broadly diversified as the linear units. They are often used for machine tools in CNC technology. They are also used in feed, automation and handling units. However, designers also use them efficiently for manual adjustment units.

How important is Motek for Dr. Tretter?

Motek is a very important trade fair for us, perhaps even the most important. This is because the majority of our customers are based in Baden-Württemberg. And with its location in Stuttgart, it is right in the middle of our catchment area. Of course, this also has to do with the fact that medium-sized special machine manufacturers are very strong here in the region. At the trade fair, we meet both existing and many potential customers. The quality of the discussions is very good. We always make exciting contacts.