With increasing digitalization and Industry 4.0, the processes involved in modern production are also changing. The central challenge here is to provide work equipment in line with requirements. The tool service provider and system supplier Hahn+Kolb is also aware of this and is constantly developing new possibilities for individualized, automated and user-friendly procurement in the area of modern purchasing processes for manufacturing companies. This is also based on the company's experience in selling tools and machines since 1898. From the very beginning, founders Hermann Hahn and Adolf Kolb worked closely with customers and suppliers to improve the quality of machines and tools and make work processes more intelligent.

Procurement 4.0 the digital way
Hahn+Kolb was the very first tool retailer to publish its catalog online back in 1997, with thousands of items already available at the time. In order to make procurement processes as lean and efficient as possible, Hahn+Kolb consistently invests in digital solutions for Industry 4.0. The result is intelligent and self-sufficient, self-managing procurement modules such as HK-MAT or individual e-catalogs that offer the right industrial solution for every need. Among other things, customers have the option of configuring Hahn+Kolb's online store, which now contains 70,000 items, into a personal e-catalogue according to their individual requirements - including, for example, details of their company's own cost centers. The platform can then be accessed directly via your own ERP system using the OCI interface (Open Catalog Interface). This direct connection simplifies and accelerates the approval processes on the customer side.

Another option is electronic data interchange (EDI), in which the user's e-procurement system is connected directly to Hahn+Kolb's merchandise management system. The service provider and customer exchange orders, order confirmations, shipping notifications and invoices via the interface. This significantly reduces manual effort and the potential for errors.

The HK-MAT manages stored tools and measuring equipment around the clock, checks pending calibration data, issues rental equipment and reorders independently. (Image: Hahn+Kolb)

Round-the-clock availability with the HK-MAT
The HK-MAT tool dispensing system is used to ensure a reliable supply of work equipment 24/7. It manages stored tools and measuring equipment, checks pending calibration data and issues loaned equipment after appropriate authorization. Operation is extremely simple: the desired tool is selected via a large control panel and the locked compartment opens after entering a PIN or using a system card. If required, the HK-MAT then automatically and independently triggers an order, which is received directly by Hahn+Kolb. Dispatch then starts within a short time from the new central warehouse built in 2013 with around 440,000 small storage spaces, over 100 shuttles and around 4,300 pallet storage spaces. This ensures a seamless supply to production.

Hahn+Kolb is investing in digital solutions for Industry 4.0 to make its procurement processes as lean and efficient as possible (Image: Hahn+Kolb)

"As with procurement, manufacturing processes are also changing. Our employees must therefore be trained in the latest technologies, because here too we are partners and consultants to our customers. The maxim of our founders, to design better machines and tools together with suppliers and customers, has actually remained the same to this day," emphasizes Katrin Hummel. With a flair for innovation, Hermann Hahn founded a factory for automatic lathes in 1913, which still successfully manufactures CNC machines as Index-Werke, based in Esslingen. The foundation for knowledge in special machine construction was laid and continues to flow into the corporate culture at Hahn+Kolb when it comes to the effective machining of modern materials. The tool service provider is also active in the field of additive manufacturing. Hahn+Kolb has had a 3D-printed chuck from the company's own premium brand Atorn in its range for several years now. And just recently, an industrial 3D printer was added to the range. "We expect to see a number of new developments in this area in the coming years, which we want to support and drive forward - so it will remain exciting in the future," says Katrin Hummel, looking ahead.