The United Grinding Group unveiled a ground-breaking automation solution in the field of tool machining at the prestigious GrindingHub trade show, held from 14 May to 17 May, 2024 in Stuttgart, Germany. Under the theme ‘Stay Connected’, the company captivated visitors with a host of innovative connectivity solutions.

A significant highlight of the event was the introduction of the Walter innovation by the United Grinding Group. On the opening day, a multitude of eager attendees flocked to the group's trade show booth, eagerly anticipating the unveiling. At precisely 10 a.m., the covers were ceremoniously removed, revealing an awe-inspiring sight—a mobile transport robot that effortlessly maneuvered between the Helitronic Vision 400 L high-end tool grinding machine and the fully automatic Helicheck Plus measuring machine. This revolutionary automation solution, aptly named ‘Automated Tool Production’ (ATP), enabled the seamless loading and unloading of cylindrical precision tools. 

Technological Advancements

Boasting a front-accessible robot cell and a mobile transport robot responsible for ferrying workpiece pallets and individual components between storage and processing stations, this cutting-edge system seamlessly integrated into existing setups, including machines from third-party suppliers.

In addition to the ATP system, Walter astounded attendees with another game-changing innovation—the introduction of laser technology through the all-new Vision Laser machine. This remarkable machine was primarily designed for machining cutting tools with inserts and harnessed the power of an innovative, highly reliable, and industry-proven laser system. Equipped with encapsulated optical modules, the Vision Laser machine ensured exceptional machine availability and performance in day-to-day operations.

The GrindingHub trade show provided an ideal platform for visitors to explore the group's latest technological advancements, showcased across an impressive array of 12 machines encompassing the realms of grinding, eroding, lasering, measuring, and additive manufacturing. BLOHM, a prominent brand within the United Grinding Group, captivated the audience with its unveiling of the tool changer for the Planomatxt. This unique and cost-efficient solution revolutionised the automatic changing of grinding wheels in the surface and profile grinding market segment. Meanwhile, STUDER showcased its cutting-edge automation system, insertLoad, which masterfully combined the advantages of standardisation and flexibility. The insertLoad facilitated the automated loading and unloading of the S31 and S33 cylindrical grinding machines. 

Simultaneously, IRPD made waves with its revolutionary machine development in the field of additive manufacturing—the Impact 4530. Hailed as the first industrial additive machine tool ‘Made in Switzerland’, this ground-breaking creation boasted remarkable attributes such as high repetition accuracy, user-friendliness, and the ability to manufacture metal parts. The IMPACT 4530 set new benchmarks in terms of accuracy, quality, and scalability within its market segment.

Connectivity Solutions

Under the overarching theme of ‘Stay Connected’, the trade show appearance went beyond showcasing cutting-edge innovations. Visitors were also treated to a comprehensive overview of the group's connectivity solutions. These included an assortment of digital customer care solutions, the state-of-the-art digital assistance systems offered by United Grinding Digital Solutions™, and the universal, manufacturer-independent umati data interface. The umati interface served as a pivotal tool for connecting the group's machines, as well as third-party machines, with their respective production environments, unlocking new levels of efficiency and productivity.

Interactive Activities

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere, a touch of excitement was added to the proceedings as four fortunate individuals emerged victorious in a C.O.R.E. panel game, earning themselves a coveted PlayStation PS5. Congratulations were in order for the winners, who not only revelled in the group's innovative technologies but also walked away with a much-coveted gaming console.

In addition to the grand showcase of technological advancements, the United Grinding Group took the opportunity to hold a press conference at GrindingHub. During the conference, Stephan Nell, CEO, provided valuable insights into the company's business performance. Nell astounded the audience, comprising representatives of the international trade press, by stating that the previous year had been one of the three most successful in the history of the group. Despite the challenging economic and geopolitical climate, the group not only maintained its market-leading position in 2023 but also expanded it. However, Nell cautioned that the industry should brace for a potential decline in sales in the current year, aligning with the broader trends observed in the machine tool industry. Nell attributed this uncertainty to external factors and the intricate dynamics within different regions and industries. While acknowledging the difficulty of making accurate forecasts given the unpredictability of global events, he expressed optimism regarding an upswing in incoming orders towards the end of the year, offering a cautiously positive outlook for the future.

Commitment and Impact

During his presentation, Nell highlighted a notable regional shift in machine tool market volumes, drawing from an external market analysis. “As a group, we are also very aware of these shifts in volume and demand. In addition to our traditional home markets of Europe, particularly the DACH region, North America, and China, we are therefore intensifying our activities in South East Asia and have established a group branch office in Singapore. Eastern Europe has also moved into our strategic focus. We already intensified our sales activities there some time ago. We will gradually expand the regional diversity of our group, which has always been one of our great strengths, to remain close to our customers in the future and maintain the group’s stable base. Based on how we are underway, I am optimistic about the future.”

The United Grinding Group's remarkable presence at GrindingHub underscored the company's unwavering commitment to innovation, connectivity, and the agility to adapt to evolving market demands. With a strong emphasis on automation solutions and technological advancements, the group showcased its ability to remain at the forefront of the tool machining industry. The awe-inspiring innovations presented during the event, coupled with the comprehensive range of connectivity solutions, affirmed the group's position as a global leader in its field. The United Grinding Group left a lasting impression on attendees at the end of the GrindingHub.