The Zenith of precision for leading pumping technologies manufacturer

Precision grinding of helical rotor on Zenith 400

Netzsch, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of pumping technologies and their systems, has purchased a ‘special version’ Zenith 400 helical profile grinding machine from Precision Technologies Group (PTG) company, Holroyd Precision.

The Zenith 400 will be installed and commissioned at Netzsch’s manufacturing facility in Brazil during early 2018. Netzsch will use the Zenith 400 to produce a range of pump screws. These will then be used in a number of the company’s innovative pumping technologies, which include cavity, multi-screw and rotary lobe pumps.

Steven Benn, Holroyd Regional Sales Director, said: “We are delighted that Netzsch has recognised the high-precision capabilities offered by the Zenith 400.

“The immense flexibility that Zenith 400 machines bring to production strategies was also a major factor in Netzsch deciding to place this high value order with us.”

Representing the very pinnacle of Holroyd’s helical profile grinding technologies, Zenith 400 models provide high stock removal rates and aggressive semi finishing, with production rates and accuracies tailored to the most demanding of manufacturing requirements. Encompassing advanced innovations and a new control system that incorporates development and production software, Zenith 400 machines have been designed to suit all user needs, in either research and development or mass production.

In standard form, the Zenith 400 is the first machine of its kind to offer all three grinding technologies: aluminium oxide, ultra-hard plated CBN and vitrified, dressable CBN – effectively providing roughing and finishing capabilities on one machine. Holroyd Precision has also developed a process whereby ultra-hard plated CBN can be used for rough grinding, after which a vitrified CBN finishing wheel can be used on the same arbor.

Mr Benn added: “This newly developed technique means we can use high-efficiency plated CBN for rough grinding and the versatility of the vitrified CBN process for finish grinding.

“The vitrified CBN enables us to change the shape of the wheel and also re-dress the wheel in light of any wear.”

In choosing the Zenith 400, Netzsch has also been able to benefit from the unique Holroyd 3D CMM component-scanning probe with fully automatic compensation feedback. Offering class-leading accuracy and improved production rates, the scanning technology removes any need for off-machine component inspection. Instead, parts can be accurately ground then measured, with any deviations being automatically corrected before completion of the manufacturing cycle.

Key features of Zenith 400 helical profile grinding machines include:

• Vitrified Al2O3, vitrified CBN and plated CBN grinding wheel options 
• Accelerated set-up, with fully automated grinding wheel balancing system 
• Powerful, menu-driven touch screen programming
• High stock removal rates, aggressive semi-finishing and precision fine finishing 
• Holroyd’s unique on-board 3D CMM component scanning probe with full automatic compensation feedback 
• High speed spindles and advanced in-process dressing systems to maintain profile accuracy and keep the grinding wheel in optimum condition 
• Complete integration with automated parts handling systems