Complete machining alleviates the shortage of skilled labour

With skilled labour in short supply everywhere, it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain or enhance productivity in metal-cutting production without complete automation. Companies will gain a competitive edge if they pay greater attention to the customer’s perspective during these ongoing labour constraints and contemplate comprehensive machining solutions.
The pressure in metal-cutting production is gradually intensifying due to a decreasing number of qualified individuals in the labour market. The labour situation is likely to deteriorate as the current skilled workforce begins to retire in the next five years. Furthermore, those workers still willing to work may lack the necessary skills for many essential tasks.
An effective approach for transforming shops could involve their tool partner. If tool manufacturers consider the perspectives of customers and users, they possess tools and solutions that facilitate machining operations requiring fewer staff. This is particularly relevant in machining scenarios where fully automated processes are not feasible.
One forward-thinking tool manufacturer is ARNO Werkzeuge from Ostfildern near Stuttgart. The family-run company possesses a wealth of expertise derived from its proximity to customers. This is reflected in various tools that prioritise complete machining wherever possible, enabling users to rely on rapid and user-friendly tool-changing systems for both fixed headstock and Swiss-type automatic lathes.
The Swabian company has recently added height-adjustable holders for back working to its product range. These holders boast several impressive features not found in conventional systems. The newly introduced height-adjustable holders for machines without a Y2 axis can be finely pre-adjusted off the machine using an adjustment device, enhancing production and machine running times whilst making the process easy to learn.
The easy-to-install system comprises a basic holder, spacer plate, top holder, and coolant supply attachment. The basic holder is precision clamped and secured by a simple dovetail guide, featuring smooth surfaces to prevent chip accumulation. ARNO Werkzeuge’s new holders preserve the centre height setting when the tool holder is replaced, guaranteeing repeat accuracy and saving considerable time.
Tool-changing scenarios always present challenges that can cost time and create sources of error. For trained lathe operators, these are everyday tasks. However, semi-skilled workers may lack the skills required for today’s highly developed turning processes. Tool manufacturers who consider these scenarios now will have a competitive edge.
When tool changes can be entirely eliminated, tasks naturally become easier. ARNO Werkzeuge has developed fixed holders with tools for machines featuring a Y2 axis, where the adjustable axis determines the centre height. These holders are designed in collaboration with machine manufacturers to ensure optimal dimensions whilst offering high stability.
The company’s patented AWL tool holder system can accommodate between two and eight tools, depending on the machine design, enabling a wide range of turning operations without human intervention. The AWL direct mount has an integrated coolant supply with two separate cooling channels supplying coolant to the cut point at high pressures of up to 150 bar.
If tool changes are necessary, the AWL direct mount is supported by the AFC quick-change tooling system. Removing or fitting two-part tools requires only a few straightforward operations. Interchangeable tool holders can be fitted and removed swiftly, with only the front section needing detachment to attach the new insert.
In view of the skilled labour shortage now and in the future, tool manufacturers need to rethink their approach. ARNO Werkzeuge, whose products are easy to use, adjust, change and handle, exemplifies achieving this transformation.