en.Wedoany.com Reported - German precision fixture manufacturer ALSTO Präzisionsspannsysteme GmbH, based in Bolladingen-Hausen, Baden-Württemberg, has reduced fixture runout error from 0.01 mm to 0.003 mm at spindle speeds of 18,000 to 24,000 rpm by introducing BLUM measurement systems, eliminating the traditional cylindrical grinding process.
These fixtures, produced by the German "hidden champion," are critical components for high-speed cutting in woodworking CNC machine tools. In modern woodworking operations with spindle speeds up to 18,000 rpm, feed rates of 30 m/min, and machining accuracy requirements of ±0.01 mm, fixture stability is paramount. Founder Alexander Alber noted that any runout deviation of 0.01 mm can be amplified at high rotational speeds, potentially leading to tool damage.
ALSTO's precision upgrade began in 2013 with the replacement of probes. Production manager Thomas explained that probes from other brands occasionally triggered false signals, requiring manual verification. After switching to BLUM's TC62 probe, its 0.3-micron repeatability and IP68 protection eliminated these issues, ensuring stable operation even under 60-bar high-pressure coolant flushing.
On ALSTO's flagship equipment—the Doosan MX2600 dual-spindle turn-mill center—the BLUM TC62 probe acts as a "guardian" of the automated production line. Before the robotic arm transfers blanks to the finishing station, the probe immediately checks clamping correctness and dimensional compliance, directly rejecting any issues without human intervention. Night shift supervisor Martin stated that the probe's definitive answers enable unattended nighttime production.
The technical confidence provided by the measurement system allowed ALSTO to eliminate the cylindrical grinding process for fixtures. Traditional processes required turning plus grinding to ensure roundness. Now, after high-precision turning, real-time thermal deformation detection and compensation by the BLUM probe directly meet specifications. Quality manager data shows runout error reduced from 0.01 mm to 0.003 mm, below the average level of grinding processes.
ALSTO deploys diverse measurement solutions for different needs. In a temperature-controlled workshop at 20±0.5°C, a Hardinge lathe is equipped with a TC54-10 T probe for producing the highest-precision fixtures with tolerance requirements of ±0.005 mm. Engineers explained that a 0.5°C temperature fluctuation causes a 1 to 2 micron accuracy impact, and the BLUM probe helps maintain the final micron-level requirements. The Doosan machine uses a combination of the LaserControl NT-H 3D system and TC76 probe, enabling measurement of tool length, diameter, and complex contours at full spindle speed, reflecting real operating conditions.
On two Chiron machining centers responsible for nighttime production, the LaserControl Micro Single NT system is dedicated to tool breakage detection. The duty engineer noted that when a chipping occurs at 3 a.m., the system automatically alarms and instructs the robotic arm to change tools, allowing production to continue without the operator leaving the control console. Alber mentioned that BLUM's service response is fast, but the system itself is highly reliable.
From its founding in 2006 with three used machines and a team of three, ALSTO has grown to operate ten modern machines with a team of 15, becoming a supplier to Germany's top woodworking machinery manufacturers. Founder Alber believes that fixture precision represents the standard of German precision. He emphasized that in the era of high-speed machining, higher precision means longer tool life, more stable machining quality, and lower overall costs.
Discussing the competitiveness of "invisible" products, Alber noted that fixtures rotate at high speed inside the machine, invisible to users, but precision determines final product quality. This responsibility drives the team to maintain reverence for every 0.001 mm. The BLUM probe also works silently inside the machine; the best technology is often that which makes its presence forgotten.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
