An automated solution was to be found for the punching and forming machines of machine manufacturer Bihler that would deliver consistently high-precision cutting edge results. The team of experts at Otec rose to this challenge. With the Otec systems, optimum cutting edge rounding and high-gloss polishing of the surfaces of a wide variety of tools made of carbide or hardened steel is achieved in just one work step. This ensures the longevity of tools and reduces production costs.

Optimum product quality and the efficient production of stamped-bent parts are decisive competitive factors for the tool industry. At Otto Bihler Maschinenfabrik, optimum cutting edge rounding of 10 to 20 micrometers and high-gloss polishing of the lateral surfaces with a surface roughness of up to Ra 0.02 micrometers apply to cutting punches and dies. With this high-performance quality, the carbide or hardened steel tools achieve consistently precise results and maximum tool life, even at high cycle rates. Modern 3D measuring technology from Keyence ensures constant quality control and documentation.

Automated stream finishing solution

A tailor-made machining process was developed at the Otec Finishing Center to meet the demanding surface requirements. The desired roughness parameters for the stamping and forming tools were achieved using vibratory finishing technology in the stream finishing process; with this SF technology, the workpieces are clamped in a holder and lowered into the rotating container filled with grinding or polishing agents. The granulate-like and abrasive process agent flows around the workpieces and ensures even, homogeneous removal. By adapting the processing parameters and the type of process agent used, both highly abrasive and finely polishing processes can be realized with just one machine.

Thanks to the system's special cycle operation, this process is suitable for a wide range of tool geometries. The angle of the clamped tool is automatically changed again and again during the process: In this way, a wide variety of surfaces can be achieved in a targeted manner. Tool machining in the SF system eliminates the need for manual process steps. The solution delivers consistent results without fluctuations. The interaction of system size, equipment, process media and the appropriate process parameters is determined at the customer's premises and then tested in real-life operation. Bihler was able to successfully commission the system.