New technologies in grinding technology - Automated & precise grinding

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Anca: Anca EPX-SF Revolutionizes Tool Quality

At EMO 2025 in Hannover, Anca introduced the launch of the EPX-SF machine for vibratory finishing, designed as a complement to Anca's advanced tool grinding systems. By integrating the finishing process, cutting tools achieve a level of precision and performance that surpasses what grinding alone can provide.

Our customers are always looking for optimizations and unique selling points. Anca grinding machines already produce cutting tools with unique geometries and tolerances in the micrometer range. The EPX-SF takes this even further, offering control of tool design and geometry in the submicrometer range. While these changes may seem minor, the improvements in tool performance and service life are undeniable, allowing tools to stand out in a competitive market.

Duncan Thompson, Anca-Produktmanager

The EPX-SF finishing process works by immersing the cutting tools into a rotating drum with media, carefully selected for the specific cutting material and desired outcome. With 11 axes for motion control, each tool can be precisely guided and positioned to achieve specific geometric features.

Gallery

After vibratory finishing on the EPX-SF machine.(Image: Anca)

The multi-range internal grinding spindle.(Image: Studer)

With the robotic automation of the proven AeroLap system, Okamoto introduces a unique solution to the market, offering a true performance booster, especially for tool manufacturers and mold makers.(Image: Okamoto)

Gallery with 11 images

The EPX-SF addresses three key aspects of cutting tool performance:

Cutting edge rounding: Grinding can result in cutting edges that are sharp but brittle, sometimes with nicks visible under a microscope. EPX-SF creates a defined, controllable radius on the edges – eliminating irregularities, strengthening the cutting edge, and extending the tool's service life. Consistent edges also improve coating adhesion and quality.
Deburring: Tools made of high-speed steel (e.g., taps) or stainless steel (e.g., orthopedic shaft tools) often exhibit burr formation after grinding. The EPX-SF efficiently removes burrs and, if needed, simultaneously hones the edges without altering the tool geometry.
Surface polishing: The process achieves surfaces with nanometer-level roughness, unattainable through grinding alone. Polished surfaces improve chip formation and evacuation, reduce material adhesion (common with aluminum or Inconel), and enhance coating adhesion by smoothing surfaces and achieving uniform coating thicknesses.

Beyond technical precision, the EPX-SF is designed as a productive and reliable investment. It enables fully programmable multi-stage finishing processes, allowing operators to tailor the process to the unique geometry of each tool.

Productivity is further increased by three independently controlled work heads that operate continuously – submerged in media or picking up the next tool via the Robomate loader. The standard automation ensures unattended production, while the flexible tool grippers allow parts with different diameters to be processed in the same batch.

The EPX-SF is designed to seamlessly integrate into Anca's automation toolbox. This allows users to benefit from the advantages of integrated production in terms of quality, output, and flexibility.

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Anca: Anca EPX-SF Revolutionizes Tool Quality

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