Machining tools tie up considerable capital, depending on the sector or production process. Keeping this capital commitment as low as possible is an important factor in resource planning for a company. Tool management is one of the most effective variables in this sense. Smart, digital-based solutions can quickly make a significant impact, not only on the aspect of capital commitment. Tool management solutions from Walter also provide essential information to optimise production and procurement processes. Readers can read the Cutting Tools Tips column in this issue.
From tool dispensing systems to complex tool management
“In many production halls there are already automated tool stations whereby removal of the tools is controlled by a digital access control – users must identify themselves using a numeric code, chip or proximity card. Only then will the cabinet open. Tool vending systems differ considerably in terms of the possible extra functions they offer, depending on the model and provider. From simply registering accesses and removals to specifically limiting individual accesses to certain tools, right up to integrating the vending machines into a complex tool management system,” describes Markus Görg, Tool Management Systems Expert at Walter.
The machining specialist Walter is now expanding its range of tool management systems with a new software solution, as well as two new C-line tool station models. C-line stands for carousel cabinet – the Walter Toolstation TX750 can be divided into 987 height-adjustable compartments. The Toolstation VX500 comprises a maximum of 628 compartments, with the option of six height-adjustable drawers. The new Walter tool station models are individually adapted to the defined requirement profile.
Obtain information relevant to reporting and processing from your data
“Machining tools and their management have particular requirements. With the new generation of Walter tool stations, we are presenting a solution that is specifically developed for machining tools,” says Markus Görg. Enabling access to tools is not the only thing users can do with it. Functions such as “product access groups”, “cost allocation“ and “status-based tool dispensing”make it possible to gain an overview of complex production processes, as well as manage the complete life cycle of a machining tool up to the last reconditioning.
Product access groups (“access modules”) are one of the basic elements of every tool vending system. With Walter tool stations systems, the product access groups and access rights can be individually assigned via the access module – up to and including specific individual tools. On the one hand, the cabinets reduce the risk of physical access errors by only opening certain compartments or sliders. In addition, the tool station monitors and controls not only which tool may be removed – using the “status-based tool dispensing” function, used and reconditioned tools are dispensed as a priority. The system ensures that there are always enough machining tools of the required quality available. On the other hand, according to parameters that can be individually set, it withholds tools that need to be reconditioned and informs tool logistics. Already reconditioned tools are prioritised over brand-new tools, so that tool life cycles are fully utilised and costs can be reduced. New orders can be automatically synchronised with stocks and tools returning from being reconditioned.
The “cost allocation” function detects patterns and significant variations in tool usage: Does the use of a machine differ from that expected from process calculations, for example? Or how does wear vary between different process steps or different machines? There is a wide range of options for reporting and process optimisation available to those responsible for processes and costs at companies. These can be available daily, if required. Users can individually configure their dashboard for access to the system, regardless of the user rights assigned to them. The user screen at the point of withdrawal is designed to function intuitively, to a large extent.
Automated processes for data transfer and orders
“The quality of the tool management stands and falls on the quality of the stored tool data. Manually entered data carries with it a high risk of being incomplete, or of becoming out of date due to irregular data maintenance. Therefore, the software package for the new Walter Toolstations TX750 and VX500 includes access to a catalogue of tools from Walter and other manufacturers,” explains Markus Görg. Further catalogues can be added via an interface to Tools United. This guarantees that the tool data used are up to date and complete. The Walter Toolstation software includes interfaces to the ERP systems that are commonly used in the sector. Repeat orders can be carried out automatically or are sent to the corresponding pre-defined points for approval.
Hosted as a Cloud solution, Walter guarantees that the software is up to date and secure.
Article by: MEGA Tech & Walter (Thailand) Co., Ltd. << Click here