More functions via software

Individual indexable inserts can also be detected with the LC50-Digilog. The blow nozzle for tool cleaning is visible as a "nose" underneath the tool. © Blum

Blum not only revised the hardware, but also expanded the range of functions with the help of software. Examples include integrated concentricity control and concentricity error correction, recording of the signal curve (sine) and the elimination of outliers, as well as the measurement and visualization of tools.

Digilog cycle "3D ToolControl" enables the recording of complete tool contours, which was previously only possible with expensive image-processing systems. The associated LC-Vision visualization software allows a quick target/actual comparison and a direct assessment of the tool on the control screen. The laser measurement technology enables very large contours to be scanned.

Other new features include the "SpindleControl" and "Fast single cutting edge control" functions. With the former, the laser measuring system can record the condition of the spindle bearings and indicate bearing damage and the resulting inaccuracies in machining at an early stage. This data can also be used for preventive maintenance - a spindle can be overhauled in good time before a total failure and unplanned machine downtime occurs.

The "Fast individual cutting edge check" function, on the other hand, enables individual tool cutting edges to be monitored for chipping. The check is carried out at working speed and not at a fixed number of revolutions dependent on the number of cutting edges.

Modular system

The LC50-Digilog laser measurement system with the smart-Dock interface (left). © Blum

The Blum smartDock is also new. This standard interface serves as the basis for all new carrier systems and contains all the necessary pneumatic valves in addition to the electrical, mechanical and pneumatic connections between the machine and laser measuring system. This means that instead of three pneumatic lines for tool cleaning, lens sealing and sealing air, only a single armored line for air and a further line for the electrical connection are required. The separate pneumatic unit required for the LaserControl NT can even be dispensed with completely if the compressed air quality complies with ISO 8573-1 class 1.3.1. When developing the smartDock, the company placed particular emphasis on a space-saving and user-friendly design. In the event of a replacement, the laser measuring system can be replaced quickly, as there is no need for mechanical alignment using a dial gauge and it only needs to be recalibrated after replacement.

The blowing nozzle for tool cleaning has also been redeveloped from scratch. The HPC cleaning nozzle can now be mounted on both sides of the measuring system, with the shape preventing chips from accumulating on the nozzle housing. The air flow has been optimized by means of flow analysis and the cleaning pressure has been increased by 25 percent compared to the previous nozzle.

The dirt shields have also been completely redeveloped. The new shape increases the effective width of the laser measuring system, allowing up to 30 percent larger tools to be measured, depending on the version. The new shape is also advantageous when measuring tools that are clamped for a short time, as the tool holder can be positioned deeper between the system's transmitter and receiver. In addition, the dirt shields can be attached and removed without tools thanks to the bayonet lock.

Laser optics revised

The heart of a laser measuring system is the optics it contains, and these have also been adapted in the new LC50-Digilog to increase absolute accuracy. For example, the beam diameter has been reduced by 30 percent and the beam shape has been optimized, enabling greater measuring accuracy for tools with corner radii, such as ball cutters. The homogeneity of the laser beam has also been further improved, which has further reduced the influence of coolant mist, for example.

According to documents from Blum-Novotest / ag

Blum-Novotest celebrates its 50th anniversary

Blum-Novotest celebrates its 50th anniversary © Blum

It all began as a one-man engineering office in 1968, when aerospace engineer Günther Blum founded an engineering office for the machine tool industry in Schmalegg. He took on contract designs for machine tool manufacturers and developed rotary transfer machines and swivel chucks, among other things.
From the 1970s onwards, the young company was also involved in electrical planning and introduced the first semiconductor-based adaptation control for machine tools. In the 1980s, the company moved into production and laser measurement technology and expanded its portfolio for machine tools. The one-man engineering office became a family business with three divisions: testing technology, measuring machines and measuring components.
At the end of the 1990s, the company took its first step into the wider world. The first subsidiaries were founded in the USA, Japan, France, Italy and the United Kingdom.
After Alexander Blum took over the operational management in 2001, the "Sales & Service Roll-out" followed; further branches were opened in Singapore, Korea, Taiwan, China and Spain, thus expanding the network across the whole world. Since 2008, the company, headquartered in Grünkraut, Baden-Württemberg, has focused on local coverage.
Branches have been established in India, Poland, Russia and Turkey, among others. The family-owned company now employs more than 550 people worldwide. For the current financial year, those responsible are also expecting turnover to grow above the normal market trend to over 80 million euros. Production capacity is also being expanded: In Grünbach, production capacity is being doubled with a new assembly building (5,500 m2), while a new 600 m2 assembly hall is also being built in Willich.