Solution for intelligent tool selection proves useful in production of lifting materials

In addition to quality tools, PPE and business equipment solutions, the company offers smart solutions that make life easier for the metalworker: the (online) catalog, eShop, eTool, Tool24, the Machining Calculator app, Connected Tools, the Connected Manufacturing software system, the calibration, grinding and re-sharpening service ... These also include ToolScout, the intelligent service to find the right tool, which recently proved its worth at Crosby Europe in Putte, a market leader in lifting materials.

With the ToolScout, users quickly and easily find the appropriate tools for milling, drilling, turning and threading workpieces, as well as the appropriate measuring and testing technology. The integrated library includes tools from GARANT and HOLEX, as well as from other manufacturers such as Kennametal, Kyocera, Stahlwille ... However, there is much more, because the database includes application data and tool and material information, with which one can optimally plan the production process, for example cutting data (feed rate and RPM) and information about the power and torque requirements of the machine. "Since our ToolScout is an online open-source database, anyone can freely search for an appropriate tool, as well as the cutting conditions for a specific work material. One gets information on realistic starting values, which can be generated as a pdf to save in one's tool library," explains Dominique Van Lunter, technical panning specialist at Hoffmann Group. "Using it is child's play, because this tool is based on a clear data matrix with a work material bar and tool coding, just as it is visible in our catalog. Users can download this database for free and implement it in the Hoffmann Machining Calculator app. However, it is also available as a table book. Our experienced experts ensure that this digital tool always includes the most up-to-date information."

A real-life example

The ToolScout, and especially the ThreadScout, recently proved their worth at Crosby Europe, for more than 130 years specialized in the development and production of lifting materials for the most diverse applications: hooks, shackles, lifting rings and clamps, slings, turnbuckles, gripping and crane blocks ... "For many years, we have deliberately chosen to work with the Hoffmann Group because we are satisfied with the quality of their products and support," says Kristof Van Limbergen, CAD/CAM designer, fabricator and set-up technician at Crosby Europe. "For example, we invested in a GARANT Tool24 tool issue cabinet, which allows us to manage all of our tools in a clear way. Among other things, we know who is using a particular tool at what time, and if stock is running low, purchasing is automatically notified so that orders can be placed in time."

Available tools under the microscope

That purchase meant a complete review of all available tools, searching for the right tool for each type of thread as well as the correct backing plate for each application to solve the problem with facets when threading. For example, using the ThreadScout, they searched for the exact helix angles on more than 50 different types of workpieces. "When they entered the thread type in the ToolScout and could thus see the correct pitch angle, they noticed that different underlays were needed at different sizes. For example, at UNC 7/8 - 9 PTI, the thread has a pitch angle of 2.522° and one needs to use a 2.5° sole plate. A sole plate of 0° would have insufficient clearance, increasing the pressure on the insert and creating facets on the threaded flanks," adds Joeri Vlasselaer, account manager at Hoffmann Group. "In practice, people then sometimes manually grind the change plate free, but then they take away the coating and strength of the plate, which greatly affects process reliability, especially on CNC machines. Using the ToolScout, this can be avoided, ensuring continuous quality assurance."