Skiving is one of the most efficient methods for producing gear teeth, but it is technically very demanding. Tool specialist LMT Tools, known for its high level of innovation and consistent customer focus, is now simplifying the process with a new engineering portal that provides targeted support, minimises errors, saves time, and ensures quality.
Credit: LMT Tools
Gear skiving is one of the most efficient methods for producing internal and external gear teeth. Even in cases where there are interfering contours at the gear tooth exit, as on this component, skiving can be used in many cases.
For gear skiving, LMT Fette, a subsidiary of LMT Tools and the group's gear cutting specialist, supplies high-performance, reliable tools that combine the latest research findings with proven application and manufacturing expertise. With their unique combination of excellent cutting edge preparation and individual process simulation, the skiving wheels set standards in terms of machining time, manufacturing costs, component quality, tool life, and process reliability, guaranteeing maximum performance in the production of internal and external gears.
New Engineering Portal for Gear Skiving
Each skiving cutter is unique: the cutting material, cutting geometry, coating, and cutting edge preparation is precisely tailored to the component and the customer-specific process. Accordingly, each tool is individually parameterized and calibrated on the machine. However, the complex adjustment and calibration processes are anything but trivial and regularly cause even experienced users to ponder. A key problem: if deviations occur in the measurement report – for example, during initial commissioning, after prolonged use, or after regrinding – this usually requires consultation with LMT Tools. That costs time. With the engineering portal, LMT Tools is now breaking new ground. “The engineering portal is designed as a digital self-help tool. We enable users to analyse deviations independently and correct them immediately without having to forego our expertise – quickly, easily, and without detours,” says Michel Matzen, development engineer at LMT Tools, adding: “This is uniquely worldwide in this form.”
Intuitive Operation, Streamlined Workflow
After entering the material and serial number (indicated on the tool) and the relevant measured values, the tool calculates the appropriate correction values in seconds and provides clear adjustment instructions, including for the cross angle and kappa angle—two key parameters in roll forming. This transforms a complex correction process into a streamlined workflow. The application is deliberately designed to be simple and intuitive so that machine operators of all experience levels can use the digital tool with confidence. This is ground-breaking considering the shortage of skilled workers and demographic change.
Digital Support for Processes and Tools
The engineering portal is automatically available with every tool purchase and can be used immediately after a one-time online registration. Determining correction values for deviations from the target value is an essential function, but not the only one. Other features include the retrieval of cutting data, an overview of available tools, the provision of setting data sheets, drawings, and tool information, as well as practical application aids. All information is accessible at any time and from any device—be it a PC, tablet, or smartphone.
Comprehensive Solutions for Manufacturing
The advantages are obvious: time savings thanks to immediately available correction values, autonomy thanks to independence from experts, higher gear quality thanks to precise parameterization, and greater process reliability by minimizing sources of error. This leads to measurably higher productivity and lower unit costs. “We see ourselves as partners to our customers and want to make working with our products as easy and efficient as possible. With the new digital engineering portal, we offer practical support and give users a decisive competitive edge,” emphasizes Michel Matzen.
Currently, the engineering portal focuses primarily on roll forming but also includes other tool families. ChamferCut and roll formers are already integrated, with additional tools and services to follow gradually.