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MOTION 02 2012 1
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion02.2012
The customer magazine of
the SCHLEIFRING Group
The best grinding programs:
Motion shows the past
and future of software
development – from page 8
INNOVATION 100 years of grinding experience in a chip
INTERVIEW What makes corporate management sustainable?
INTERNATIONAL The SCHLEIFRING Group conquers South America
INDEPTH The secret of luxury Swiss watches
EN_Umschlag_Motion_02_2012 44-1 15.11.12 12:4115 11 12 12 41Koerber_En.indd 1Koerber_En.indd 1 04.12.12 12:0404.12.12 12:04
SCHLEIFRING GRUPPE RUBRIK
2 Motion 02.2012
Cove
r: R
agnar
Schm
uck, P
hoto
s: R
agnar
Schm
uck, S
chaub
Stierli,
pic
ture
alliance /
Bild
agentu
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ub
er
IN THIS MOTION YOU WILL FIND:
The front cover of this
Motion issue on the topic
“Software in Grinding
Technology” shows a
photograph of Ragner
Schmuck in the production
plant of Blohm Jung GmbH
in Hamburg-Bergedorf
3 WELCOME
Stephan Nell, Chairman of the Management Board of Körber
Schleifring AG, on the connection between customer benefi t
and success
4 NEWS
World map: The global service density of the SCHLEIFRING
Group; Research: Dr. Josef Mayer, prizewinner of the STUDER
Award; Cylindrical grinding: News on the favoritCNC and S41;
Tübinger Technology Days: Globalization as an opportunity for
midsize companies
8 INNOVATION
Grinding with bits and bytes. Considerably more precise and
complex products can be manufactured cost-effectively with
electronic control system and software. Today a chip can
contain 100 years of grinding experience
14 INDEPTH
A passion for precision. The secret of Swiss watch manufactur-
ers also lies in the quality of the grinding tools used
18 INSIDE
What are you doing now? Employees of the SCHLEIFRING
Group from the USA, India, China and Germany talk about their
specifi c contribution to success
20 INTERVIEW
More than just fi ne words. Stephan Nell, Christian Wriedt,
Körber Foundation and expert Christian Geßner discuss the right
approach to the challenge of sustainability
26 A DAY WITH …
... Daniel Huber. The Head of the Internal Grinding
Competence Center in Biel, Switzerland, represents a very
special success story
29 TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
News from the SCHLEIFRING Group: MÄGERLE MFP 100,
KRONOS S 125, Helicheck Basic 2, FlexGrind M
36 INTERNATIONAL
A continent with its sights set high. The SCHLEIFRING Group
in South America. Plus: Stopover in Rio de Janeiro
40 IDEAS
The Vanguard of Globalia. Professor Hermann Simon explains
his concept of the “Hidden Champions”, who are asserting
themselves in the world markets
43 INTOUCH
The Motion calendar: The most important trade shows
and dates
EDITORIAL DETAILSPUBLISHER Körber Schleifring AG, Jubiläumsstraße 95, 3005 Bern
RESPONSIBLE Sandro Bottazzo PUBLICATION MANAGER Peter Lütjens
CHIEF EDITOR Michael Hopp (responsible for the purposes of press law)
ART DIRECTION Jessica Winter MANAGING EDITOR Niels Baumgarten
PICTURE EDITING Sylvi Egert AUTHORS Klaus Jopp, Volker Marquardt
(copy editor), Johanna Pruski, Nils Schiffhauer, Ira Schrörs LAYOUT Tobias
Heidmeier PRODUCTION Claude Hellweg (manager), Stefanie Albrecht PUB-LISHING HOUSE AND ADDRESS OF EDITORIAL OFFICE HOFFMANN
UND CAMPE VERLAG GmbH, Harvestehuder Weg 42, 20149 Hamburg,
Tel. +49.40.44 188-457, Fax +49.40.44 188-236 MANAGING DIRECTORS Dr. Kai Laakmann, Bernd Ziesemer PUBLICATION MANAGER Inga Borg
LITHO PX2, Hamburg PRINTING Neef-Stumme premium printing, Wit-
tingen. Printed on FSC® certifi ed paper (FSC®-C 1857)
26
36
8 MOTION 02 2012 1
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion02.2012
The customer magazine of
the SCHLEIFRING Group
The best grinding programs:
Motion shows the past
and future of software
development – from page 8
INNOVATION 100 years of grinding experience in a chip
INTERVIEW What makes corporate management sustainable?
INTERNATIONAL The SCHLEIFRING Group conquers South America
INDEPTH The secret of luxury Swiss watches
EN_Umschlag_Motion_02_2012 44-1 15.11.12 12:41
EN_2_Motion_02_2012 2EN_2_Motion_02_2012 2 15.11.12 13:1215.11.12 13:12
Motion 02.2012 3
WELCOME
“OUR GOAL IS TO INCREASE YOUR COMPETITIVENESS!”
DEAR READERS, You are holding the new Motion in your hands. Starting
with this issue we have renewed the layout and the mix of topics. New
series such as “A day with …” (from page 26) and “Inside” (from page 18)
will give you the opportunity to get to know different SCHLEIFRING GROUP EMPLOYEES in each Motion issue. In the “Tools & Technology” special
(from page 29) you will fi nd detailed innovations and developments of the
SCHLEIFRING Group - SOLUTIONS WHICH WILL INCREASE YOUR COMPETITIVENESS!
We all live and work in a volatile environment with constantly changing
currents and scenarios, and I believe it is important never to lose sight of the
long-term goals. CUSTOMER BENEFIT is a CRUCIAL FACTOR for long term
success and ultimately leads to sustainable development of our compa-
nies. Your success ensures our future.
An important success factor in grinding is EXPERIENCE and
KNOW-HOW: Each of the eight brands of the SCHLEIFRING Group can
count on the experience of more than 100 years.
Important grinding experience, which is central to the development of
their own machine software. You can fi nd out more on this topic in our
title story from page 8.
The SCHLEIFRING GROUP has over 300 of its own sales engineers and
service technicians and more than 100 long-standing sales partners
IN YOUR AREA - WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE WORLD. We illustrate this from
page 36 using the example of Latin America. Wherever your production
facility is located, you’ll fi nd us close by. I wish you enjoyable reading!
Stephan Nell,Chairman of the Management Board,
Körber Schleifring AG
“Customer benefi t
is a crucial factor for
long term success”,
Stephan Nell,
Chairman of the
Management
Board of Körber
Schleifring AG
EN_3_Motion_02_2012 3EN_3_Motion_02_2012 3 15.11.12 12:1815.11.12 12:18
4 Motion 02.2012
Gra
phic
: iS
tockp
hoto
MACHINES MUST consistently fulfi l customer
requirements, operate cost-effectively, be
constantly available - and function reliably.
To guarantee all of this more than 450
qualifi ed and experienced After-Sales
Service staff are available to customers of the
SCHLEIFRING Group for the entire working
life of their machines. The above map shows
the distribution of the over 250 Service staff of
the SCHLEIFRING Group (dark colored) and
that of the technicians belonging to its
international representatives (light colored).
This customer-oriented and extensive Service
sets SCHLEIFRING apart from all other
companies in the industry. The Service experts
around the world have a broad knowledge
of hardware and software. Not only technical
expertise, but also personal contacts are of
prime importance. Intensive basic training and
annual internal further training courses in the
group’s own “Service Academy” ensure that
the experts’ knowledge is always up-to-date.
They also have constant access to updated
databases (including ICOS from STUDER),
which assist them in troubleshooting and the
subsequent problem solution.
CONTACT [email protected]
www.schleifring.net
PRESENT ALL OVER THE WORLD
SERVICE
450 QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED AFTER-SALES SERVICE STAFF ARE AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS OF THE SCHLEIFRING GROUP FOR THE ENTIRE WORKING LIFE OF THEIR MACHINES
Service employees in the SCHLEIFRING Group
Technicians from international representatives of the SCHLEIFRING Group
THE ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE- QUICK PROBLEM SOLVING
with over 50 helplines in many different
time zones and languages
- OVER 70 PART MANAGERS
precisely identify the original
SCHLEIFRING parts
- MORE THAN 250
of our experienced service technicians
are available to customers worldwide
- MOST PRODUCTION CENTERS offer their own overhaul department
with over 60 staff
- BROAD SERVICE PORTFOLIO in factories: from prevention through
maintenance to complete overhaul
SCHLEIFRING GROUP NEWS
EN_4_Motion_02_2012 4EN_4_Motion_02_2012 4 15.11.12 13:1815.11.12 13:18
Motion 02.2012 5
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
OVER 15 DEGREES CELSIUS – this was the
temperature variation in a tool hall on one day
alone, says Josef Mayr, currently associate
professor in mechatronics at MCI Manage-
ment Center Innsbruck. The result: “A meter
of steel becomes 12 micrometers longer, if
the temperature rises by just one degree.” But
precisions of less than one micrometer are the
goal when machining workpieces. The invisible
deformation of machine tools could previously
only be detected in air-conditioned production
halls. In his dissertation the mechanical engi-
neer, born in 1977 and awarded a doctorate
at ETH Zürich in 2009, developed a method
which allowed thermal changes in machines
to be analyzed, predicted and reduced during
the development phase. In September 2012
Mayr received the Fritz Studer Award 2011,
endowed with 10 000 Swiss francs.
Motion: Congratulations on the award! What is the essence of the method which you have developed? Josef Mayr: The thermal behavior of machine
tools has become a limiting factor in the preci-
sion of workpiece machining. The deforma-
For the third time STUDER has presented the Fritz Studer Award for an
outstanding piece of research: Josef Mayr received it for his dissertation, which
presents a new way of “assessing and compensating temperature variation in
machine tools”. His method offers the prerequisite for more effi cient production
of high-precision workpieces
FRITZ STUDER AWARD
“TEMPERATURE OPTIMIZATION MAKES SMALL BATCHES MORE COST-EFFECTIVE”
tion of machine tools due to temperature
changes within a factory building can exceed
the targeted precision by orders of magnitude.
The aim of my work was therefore to develop a
method for simulating these thermally caused
displacements. This enables the development
of temperature-optimized machine tools.
Motion: What is the concept of your method? Josef Mayr: It simulates deformation due to
temperature changes. To do this it combines
two methods – the Finite Element Method
(FEM), for representing deformations due to
the application of force, and the Finite Differ-
ence Method (FDM), with which heat transfer
problems can be solved. My software uses
“HIGH PRECISION WITH REDUCED WARM-UP PHASE.”Dr. Josef Mayr, Management Center Innsbruck
FEM and FDM to calculate the displacement
of the tool in relation to the workpiece. This
also incorporates a 3D model, which enables
the causes of this thermal deformation to
be found and reduced in the design phase.
This process is very quick, whereas previous
models occupied a PC for an entire week – for
a single modeling!
Motion: What will your work achieve? Josef Mayr: It allows the targeted develop-
ment of machine tools with thermally opti-
mized behavior – because at present we still
don’t really know why one machine is better
than another in this respect. And it enables
more precise, quicker and therefore more
cost-effective production of workpieces. The
reduction of the warm-up phase primarily af-
fects individual parts and small batches, while
in high volume production a machine tool usu-
ally reaches a stable range after some time.
This opens up new possibilities, which can
be achieved without recourse to expensively
air-conditioned workshops.
Award: Fred Gaegauf,
Managing Director of
Fritz Studer AG (r.), presents
the Fritz Studer Award 2011
to winner Dr. Josef Mayr
from ETH Zürich
EN_5_Motion_02_2012 5EN_5_Motion_02_2012 5 15.11.12 13:1815.11.12 13:18
6 Motion 02.2012
FROM THE OUTSET the new S41 CNC universal cylindrical grinding ma-
chine has attracted a high level of interest among customers. Kaspar
Schaerer, Head of Sales Support, is delighted: “We only won a big
‘Automotive’ order from the USA on the strength of the many advan-
tages of the S41!” The S41 succeeds the S40, which set standards
worldwide as the fl agship over 20 years ago and has been continuously
further developed. One of the key components is the solid, extremely
rigid and thermally stable machine bed, cast from Granitan® S103. This
provides the stable reference point for a precision which, in conjunction
with the new StuderGuide® guideway system and the linear drive, en-
sures the highest positioning and interpolation accuracies. In addition
to precision further objectives of the around ten year long development
were even better handling, shorter cycle times of the overall grinding
process and effi cient software support. The development of the S41
was based on the requirements of customers and their feedback from
practical experience, so that STUDER was able to consider a large
range of applications and diverse requirements in respect of handling
and work process.
CONTACT [email protected]
www.studer.com
STUDER
THE S41 CYLINDRICAL GRINDING MACHINE DEFINES THE “STATE OF THE ART”
MACHINE AND PLANT MANUFACTURE
931 000 PEOPLE WORKED IN MACHINE CON-STRUCTION IN GERMANY IN 2011 Source: Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau, 2012
THE SUCCESSFUL favoritCNC model, which is based on the S33 and
specializes in external and internal cylindrical grinding of small to
medium-sized workpieces, has found wide acclaim since its introduc-
tion in 2006. The machine enables quick set-up, simple operation with
a perfect view of the workpiece – and is particularly versatile thanks to
the modular system. STUDER is now offering a revised model. “The
machine has been specifi cally expanded with individual options to
increase customer benefi t”, says Fred W. Gaegauf, Managing Director
of Fritz Studer AG. New features include a hydraulic barrel retraction
and modifi cation to a distance between centers of 1000 millimeters.
This increase of 350 millimeters enables customers worldwide to ma-
chine larger workpieces. The favoritCNC can optionally be equipped
with in-process gauging, balancing system, contact detection, length
positioning or the StuderGRIND programming software.
CONTACT [email protected]
www.studer.com
STUDER
favoritCNC: ONTO THE WORLD MARKET WITH A DISTANCE BETWEEN CENTERS OF 1000
SCHLEIFRING GROUP NEWS
EN_06_Motion_02_2012 6EN_06_Motion_02_2012 6 19.11.12 10:5519.11.12 10:55
Motion 02.2012 7
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
GLOBALIZATION
1.7 IN THE LAST TEN YEARS INTER-NATIONAL TRADE HAS INCREASED BY A FACTOR OF 1.7.Source: CPD Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis, July 2012
HOW CAN EUROPEAN COMPANIES best utilize the
opportunities provided by globalization? The
Tübinger Technology Days 2012 organized
by WALTER and EWAG at the end of June
provided an answer to this question. Professor
Dr. Hans-Jörg Bullinger (top), member of the
Senate and Ex-President of the Fraunhofer-
Gesellschaft, highlighted the capacity for
innovation of European companies, which is
a key criterion for success in global competi-
tion. The scientist sees the increase in energy
costs as the driving force for innovative and
future-oriented companies, whose solutions
TÜBINGER TECHNOLOGIE DAYS 2012
Discussion in a high-tech
environment: one aspect of the
Tübinger Technology Days
have reduced energy consumption. Innova-
tions come from competent and dedicated
staff, for whom the right working environment
must be created. Elements contributing to this
were presented by Dr. Hans-Erich Polkowski
from the Management Partner consultancy. He
called for active personnel management and
presented alternative working time models. A
100-strong audience came together for these
presentations in Tübingen: “With this event we
have enabled our customers, suppliers and
partners to see their own environment in the
light of future challenges and to discuss this
with each other”, summed up Christoph Ehrler,
WALTER manager for the event. Trend fore-
caster Christian Hehenberger fi nally presented
an encouraging prognosis: “The fact is that the
economic coordinate system will undergo a
global shift in the next few years. The EU will be
among the winners!” Perhaps the participants
in the next Tübinger Technology Days are
already convinced of this.
CONTACT [email protected]
www.walter-machines.com
Visionary:
Member of the
Senate of the
Fraunhofer-
Gesellschaft,
Prof. Dr. Hans-
Jörg Bullinger
TRENDS
To look beyond the boundaries of our own industry and country - this is the purpose of the
Tübinger Technology Days organized by WALTER and EWAG in June. Experts expressed their
view on the opportunities offered by globalization for small and medium-sized businesses
EN_7_Motion_02_2012 7EN_7_Motion_02_2012 7 15.11.12 13:2215.11.12 13:22
8 Motion 02.2012
GRINDING WITH BITS AND BYTES
100 years of grinding experience in a single chip.
How Sophisticated software tools simplify and accelerate
the control of machines
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INNOVATION
EN_8_Motion_02_2012 8EN_8_Motion_02_2012 8 15.11.12 13:2715.11.12 13:27
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 9
Photo
s: R
agnar
Schm
uck
Teamwork:
Kim Bruhnsen (right)
and Waqar-Azeem
Chaudry program
the Profi mat control
system for machining
a new workpiece at
Blohm Jung GmbH
in Hamburg
EN_9_Motion_02_2012 9EN_9_Motion_02_2012 9 15.11.12 13:2715.11.12 13:27
10 Motion 02.2012
Photo
s: R
agnar
Schm
uck
PRECISE GEOMETRIESToday funnel geometries of a forging
die can be produced in a single
clamping in just a few minutes using
modern grinding software
SOPHISTICATED ALLROUNDERSWhether peel grinding
longitudinal contours
(top) or pendular
grinding prismatic
surfaces (bottom) –
modern software can
master all challenges
FOR CENTURIES MACHINES WERE operated solely by people. For workpiece
machining this means: the workpiece quality was only ever as good as the
machine’s stability and reliability and the operator’s experience and ability.
“Even then, outstanding precision could be achieved with the right per-
son”, says Torsten Runkowski, software developer at Blohm Jung GmbH.
But it was laborious. Frank Maier, application technician for software
and grinding technology and deputy department manager at WALTER,
knows this too. When he began his training as a tool grinder, he learned
manual grinding. That was a laborious business: every angle and sur-
face to be ground required a new clamping. For each measuring process
the workpiece had to be removed from the machine, measured and then
reclamped. Errors could quickly creep in and the reject rate was high.
The fi rst step towards automation was NC machines (NC stands for “Nu-
meric Control”). Their control system read the control commands present
on data carriers and converted them into movement sequences (see time
bar below). The big advantage: by changing the data carrier – still perforated
tape at that time – the machines could be quickly adapted to a new task,
which is why NC controls were at fi rst primarily used in machine tools. With
advancing technological development, computer technology also found its
way into the production process. CNC technology (CNC stands for Com-
puter Numeric Control) began to assert itself in the mid 70’s. It provided
higher fl exibility and thus enabled rationalization in series and single part
production. The SCHLEIFRING companies also began to develop their
own software solutions for their processes at an early stage. With these
new technologies the working life of Frank Maier and his co-workers also
changed: machine control and software tools performed an increasing
number of tasks independently. Today the machine components are con-
trolled by software – from axes through automatic loaders, tool changers
and dressers to tailstock, chuck and high frequency spindles. On systems
which run 24 hours a day, up to 365 days a year.
Thanks to electronic control and software tools, much more precise and
complex products can be manufactured cost-effectively today, in contrast
to the past. This was still impossible ten years ago. “Through the use of
software combined with modern measuring and drive technology, today
processes can be operated with high reliability and reproducibility in quality
ranges which were still inconceivable just a few years ago”, says Prof. Paul
Helmut Nebeling from Reutlingen University (interview on page 13). This
also applies for the manufacture of stepped and profi le tools, for example.
“Pine tree cutters and thread milling drills as well as micro tools for the med-
ical sector can only be manufactured thanks to modern software”, says
Torsten Wörner, Product Marketing Manager at WALTER. Modern soft-
ware technology also simplifi es and accelerates the production process in
the manufacturing of guide vanes for aviation turbines (photo on page 8).
In the past, these components were machined very time-consumingly
on large horizontal rotating grinding tables. “The trend towards ever
larger driving mechanisms resulted in rotary tables with diameters of two
and a half meters. The grinding centers needed a correspondingly large
amount of room in production”, says Peter Oppelt, Technology Team
Leader at BLOHM JUNG. Today, thanks to the CNC technology and soft-
ware developed by BLOHM, they can be manufactured quickly, easily
and reliably on relatively small 5-axis complete machining centers. The
big advantage: four CNC centers will fi t on the area of one horizontal
rotating grinding machine. This increases fl exibility for the user, who can
utilize the capacity of these machines effi ciently with different sized parts,
depending on the order situation.
In addition, the users require programs which will allow them to manufac-
ture complex parts as cheaply and quickly as possible. At the same time
the precision requirements on the workpieces are increasing. While 0.01
millimeters was suffi cient a few years ago, today precisions of under 0.005
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INNOVATION
EN_10_Motion_02_2012 10EN_10_Motion_02_2012 10 15.11.12 13:2815.11.12 13:28
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 11
OF THE DEVELOPMENT COSTS IN THE MACHINE TOOL
INDUSTRY ARE ACCOUNTED FOR BY ELECTRONICS AND
SOFTWARE
40%Up to millimeters are the rule. For comparison: a human hair is 0.07 millimeters
thick. In order to achieve this precision, application software, hardware
and machine control must harmonize with each other. This is only possible
if the software developer has the relevant expertise and possesses sound
knowledge of mathematics, control technology and grinding technology.
Finding appropriately specialized staff is a challenge. “In our Software De-
partment we employ physicists, mathematicians and engineers, many of
them in dual vocational training and with their ear on the pulse of research
in the universities”, explains Wolfgang Labus, Head of Product Engineer-
ing at STUDER. With his team of software specialists he developed the
StuderTechnology technology computer in around fi ve years; this system
stores the company’s entire grinding know-how in a database and sug-
gests the optimal setting for the machining parameters, irrespective of the
operator’s knowledge.
The StuderGRIND grinding software and all other software modules ac-
cess this when programming a new grinding process. The advantages are
much shorter changeover and set-up times without rejects, and optimal
production results from the outset. It is a similar story at WALTER: here the
ToolStudio software is available for virtual programming and machining, as
well as an extensive database of knowledge for tool grinding. When creat-
ing these software developments the companies in the SCHLEIFRING
Group work closely with control system manufacturers, universities and
research organizations as well as their sister companies in the group. The
result is programs such as the Heureka setting aid from MIKROSA or
EWAG’s LaserSoft for the control of laser and machine in the EWAG La-
serLine. With Grips, BLOHM, EWAG and JUNG offer a programming aid
for profi ling grinding wheels and develop grinding programs which can be
parameterized application-specifi cally for individual workpiece families.
Common to all software solutions developed by the SCHLEIFRING Group
is simple, intuitive operation and familiar Windows-based user interface.
EN_11_Motion_02_2012 11EN_11_Motion_02_2012 11 15.11.12 13:2815.11.12 13:28
12 Motion 02.2012
Photo
s: R
agnar
Schm
uck, p
riva
t
But these software solutions by no means mark the end of development.
“The importance of grinding software will increase, because in future it
will be the most important distinguishing feature in competition”, predicts
Wolfgang Labus. The SCHLEIFRING companies take very different ap-
proaches in the further development of their software solutions. EWAG, for
example, is working on further standardization of its software, WALTER is
focusing on profi le tools and regrinding, while STUDER, with Studer Train-
ing and Programming, is working on a program which will enable cus-
tomers to execute “grinding dry runs” on a laptop. Blohm Jung GmbH is
currently performing initial tests for the automatic calibration of workpieces
using a 3D scan; this will enable the machine to select the appropriate
grinding program with the aid of the CAD drawing and then grind the work-
piece from the drawing. But one thing is common to all developments: the
more complex the software processes running in the background become,
the simpler the operation of the machine.
IRA SCHROERS
CONTACT [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], thomas.fi [email protected]
SOFTWARE OVERVIEW BLOHM AND JUNG - GRIPS: programming aid for grinding profi les
- FlexTouch: enables three control widths and adapts the
Buser interface to the respective grinding task
- PA 37 K: compensates contour errors through automatic
measurement of dressing tools
EWAG - ProGrind: complete solution for all grinding and eroding tasks
with integrated automation tool
- LaserSoft: effi cient laser ablation, 3D cavities and precise external
contour machining in a single clamping
SCHAUDT AND MIKROSA - Online Monitoring: monitors machine status
- Heureeka: ssoftware-supported setting aid
STUDER- StuderWIN: Windows-based user interface
- StuderGRIND: for systematic offl ine programming - StuderTechnology: over 100 years of grinding know-how
- Quick-Set: reduces set-up times by up to 90 percent
WALTER - Helitronic Tool Studio: programming tool for the virtual simulation
and machining of rotation tools
- Adaptive Control: adapts the infeed speed of the workpiece
profi le and minimizes auxiliary times
- Easy Check: tool measurement and profi le detection
When setting machining
parameters users can use the
company’s grinding know-
how for themselves, thanks to
StuderTechnology
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INNOVATION
EN_12_Motion_02_2012 12EN_12_Motion_02_2012 12 15.11.12 13:2815.11.12 13:28
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 13
Motion: How important are modern soft-ware solutions for machining?Helmut Nebeling: The mechanics of present-
day machines are comparable and inter-
changeable. European and German machine
manufacturers in particular live on their special
process know-how. This know-how must be
bundled in a software package and made
available for automated processes. Only then
can software solutions replace the decreasing
number of technologically experienced people
in companies.
Motion: What are the driving forces for new software developments? Helmut Nebeling: Primarily new technologies
and the associated requirements on produc-
tion systems and tools. The technological
know-how packed into the software is a crucial
factor for implementation of these innova-
tions. The software must be further developed
across departments.
Motion: What does that mean? Helmut Nebeling: Well, in the cross-depart-
mental further development of software the
individual disciplines - mechanics, electrics,
software etc. - mutually infl uence each other.
It is important that the development occurs in
parallel - or, better still, synchronously - in the
individual departments. This also saves time
and money.
Motion: But presumably it’s not very easy to synchronously develop the functionalities of the individual departments?Helmut Nebeling: That’s true. A clear descrip-
tion of interfaces and specifi cation of the
module functionalities are crucial. Then we will
succeed, and resources can also be saved.
Motion: What is the current focus of re-search?Helmut Nebeling: We are studying the effects
of new materials, coatings and geometrical
designs on grinding processes. A further
aspect is the integration of process chains and
systems. Here the data is made accessible and
usable between Development, Production and
Logistics. We are also working on the adapta-
tion of processes to production systems and
their holistic consideration.
Motion: What will the future bring? Will there soon be “grinding apps”?Helmut Nebeling: SGrinding apps? No, I don’t
see that yet. But the interaction of software,
mechanics and electrics opens up brand
new functionalities. However, the software
must allow the design of (customer-) specifi c
geometrical functions. Only in this way can
the know-how of companies be implemented.
Cost-effective production systems also
need integrated data networks, not closed
data islands.
Motion: What does that mean?Helmut Nebeling: The software must have
open and defi ned interfaces, so that the
individual departments such as Development,
Production, Re-working, Logistics etc. can
be effi ciently linked with the help of software
solutions. The integration of process moni-
toring using sensors and adaptive process
control are also aiming in this direction. Here
too the aim is to optimally utilize the capac-
ity of production systems and thus improve
product quality and the cost-effectiveness of
processes.
INTERVIEW: IRA SCHROERS
CONTACT [email protected]
INTERVIEW
“MAKING KNOW-HOW USABLE IN AUTOMATED PROCESSES”
What does the future hold for software development in grinding
machine technology? What are researchers working on currently?
A conversation with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Paul Helmut Nebeling, specialist in
Machine Tools, Production Systems, Control Technology and
Rapid Prototyping at Reutlingen University
“WE ARE RESEARCHING THE EFFECTS OF NEW MATERIALS AND COATINGS ON GRINDING PROCESSES”Prof. Dr.-Ing. Nebeling, specialist in machine tools at Reutlingen University
EN_13_Motion_02_2012 13EN_13_Motion_02_2012 13 15.11.12 13:2815.11.12 13:28
14 Motion 02.2012
A PASSION FOR PRECISION The Swiss watch industry and the SCHLEIFRING Group:
They have enjoyed a successful partnership for decades.
The legendary IWC watches demonstrate the importance
of the precision of grinding machines for watchmaking
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INDEPTH
EN_14_Motion_02_2012 14EN_14_Motion_02_2012 14 15.11.12 13:3815.11.12 13:38
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 15
SWITZERLAND IS THE LAND OF WATCHES: Rolex, Bre-
itling and Patek Philippe, Andemars Piguet and
Vacheron Constatin are global brands. It‘s not
just chronometer lovers who hold them in high
regard. The industry‘s major players also include
the International Watch Company in Schaffhau-
sen whose studio windows, just a few kilome-
ters from the Rhine Falls, look out directly onto
the river. The English name, frequently abbrevi-
ated to IWC, is no coincidence. Surprisingly, the
founder of the watch factory was an American
engineer: Florentino Ariosto Jones launched the
company in North East Switzerland in 1868.
At that time Schaffhausen could already look
back on a long tradition of watchmaking. Back
in 1409 the fi rst documented watch was manu-
factured in Rheinau Abbey, ten kilometers down
the Rhine, destined for St. John‘s Church in
Schaffhausen. From 1583 there was evidence
of watchmaking at this location by the thun-
dering Rhine Falls. As a young man Jones was
deputy director of the E. Howard Watch & Clock
Precision in the micron range:
the individual parts of a watch
movement with tweezers (top):
Right: An IWC Portofi no with
hand-wound precision movement
and moon dial
Company in Boston, one of the leading watch
manufacturers in the world at that time. He now
wanted to produce high-quality pocket watch-
es for the American market in the then low-
wage country of Switzerland. Still under Jones‘
management, the original IWC factory was built
directly on the Rhine in 1875. The company still
occupies this building, in which almost 200 em-
ployees worked in Jones‘ time.
The Swiss watch industry also played a decisive
role for Ewag AG, which was founded in 1946
for the purpose of supplying this industry with
high-quality tool grinding machines. The start-
ing point was the high requirement for preci-
sion, which became increasingly important in
watchmaking. „In fact the requirements have
constantly increased. A hundredth of a millime-
ter used to be suffi cient in machining, but now
it has to be in the thousandth range,“ explains
Dieter Carld, responsible for tool procurement
and use at IWC Schaffhausen. „In order to take
account of this trend towards ever higher preci-
sion, we replaced our grinding machines with a
WS 11 from EWAG in 2003.“ The watch manu-
facturer uses the manual grinding machine to
manufacture special tools for prototypes and to
perform tool corrections. „Each year we manu-
facture around 30 new tools, most of which are
unique. I use the machine for around one hour a
day on average, but the working time can vary
throughout the year, depending on the order
situation,“ says Carld.
Precision is essential in watchmaking, espe-
cially for classic mechanical watches like those
at IWC. Here a micron, or a thousandth of a mil-
limeter, is the measure of all things. And pre-
cision perfectly suits IWC‘s philosophy, which
combines the passion for watchmaking, an in-
defatigable pioneering spirit and technical per-
fection. „Without modern high-precision tools
the production of our watches, with their intri-
cate mechanical interior, wouldn‘t be possible
at all“, says Kay Brüninghaus, Associate Direc-
tor of Production Components at IWC. As a re-
EN_15_Motion_02_2012 15EN_15_Motion_02_2012 15 15.11.12 13:3815.11.12 13:38
16 Motion 02.2012
Photo
s: IW
C S
chaffhausen
sult of this process the watches will last for de-
cades, with appropriate maintenance and care.
Against this background the long-established
company adapts the tools used to the individual
quality requirements in its own workshop – us-
ing the EWAG WS 11. After machining, single-
toothed and fi llet cutters, gravers and prototype
tools go into internal component supply, case
manufacture, pre-assembly and watch assem-
bly. 80 percent of them are special tools, which
have one thing in common: Their precision is in
the range of just a few microns. This also ap-
plies for the WS 11, which can even grind tools
with a diameter of 0.1 millimeters. „The machine
fulfi ls our requirements for minimal dimensional
tolerances. It is used above all when we need
to make quick corrections to tools“, says Carld,
who has worked at IWC for 23 years.
THE SWISS WATCH INDUSTRY: QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY
The world‘s largest watch manufacturer is China -
as far as quantity goes, at any rate. The giant empire
exported over 682 million in 2011, at an average
price of just two dollars. Second in the ranking
comes Hong Kong, with 402 million watches. Swit-
zerland follows in third place with just 29.8 million
watches, but with a value of almost 22 billion dol-
lars. The country is therefore clearly in the lead as far
as value goes. IWC also contributes to this success.
According to the estimates of the Swiss Sunday
newspaper, the turnover of the Schaffhausen fac-
tory was over 650 million Swiss francs in 2011, with
an operating profi t of over 150 million Swiss francs.
Highest concentration: The assembly
of the almost 100 parts of the
tourbillon at IWC requires precision
work - and, of course, precision-
manufactured tools
With its knowledge of precision structures, IWC
has consistently set important trends for the
mechanical watch – as witnessed by the com-
pany‘s recognition of the huge potential of the
emerging wristwatches at the end of the 19th
century, for which brand new movements had
to be developed. The „Ingenieur“, launched in
1955, has achieved world renown. No other
watch has cemented IWC‘s reputation for
technical expertise as strongly as this fi rst chro-
nometer with automatic movement housed in a
soft-iron inner case for protection against mag-
netic fi elds. The giant leap from hand-wound to
automatic movements had already been made
four years previously, with the then revolution-
ary 85 caliber. However, it was only with the
Ingenieur that IWC catapulted itself into the
vanguard of Swiss manufacturers competing
to create the fi rst bidirectional automatic move-
ment. Its winding system, featuring a rocking
bar and rollers in the automatic 85-caliber fam-
ily, set new standards in watchmaking. In 2005
the „Ingenieur“ celebrated a resounding come-
back – „mechanical engineering at its purest in
the shape of a watch“, wrote IWC itself at the
launch of the new generation, which withstood
shocks, impacts and vibrations, and functioned
reliably in the presence of the magnetism now
emitted by an increasing number of machines
and appliances.
Equally well-known are IWC‘s Pilot‘s Watches,
which have been ensuring correct departure
times since 1936 and coping with the special
requirements of pilot and crew. In the pioneering
days of aviation, the main priority was to protect
the sensitive movements of watches against
dust, extreme temperature fl uctuations and
the strong magnetic fi elds created by cockpit
instrumentation. The hallmark from the begin-
ning has been the optimum legibility of the dial.
The best-known Pilot‘s Watch is the „Mark 11“
manufactured from 1948 onwards, the stan-
dard watch for the Royal Air Force. The Mark 11
was in use for more than 30 years – it now en-
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INDEPTH
EN_16_Motion_02_2012 16EN_16_Motion_02_2012 16 15.11.12 13:3815.11.12 13:38
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 17
„EACH YEAR WE MANUFACTURE AROUND 30 NEW TOOLS OURSELVES. MOST OF THESE ARE UNIQUE“Dieter Carld, responsible for tools at IWC Schaffhausen
Double check: Designers
and engineers (top) work
closely together at IWC.
Before an IWC watch leaves
the factory in Schaffhausen
it is subjected to a water-
tightness test at different
pressures (right)
joys cult status and is a sought-after collector‘s
watch. Today IWC Pilot‘s Watches - like the
models in the current TOP GUN collection - can
withstand thirty Gs, have a wide variety of func-
tions and are made from high-tech materials
such as ceramic and titanium. High-precision
tools, like those manufactured by Dieter Carld,
are consistently used in the manufacture of IWC
Schaffhausen‘s watch collection. Carld‘s fi nal
verdict on the WS 11: „It runs as precisely as
clockwork.“
KLAUS JOPP
CONTACT [email protected]
www.walter-machines.com
EN_17_Motion_02_2012 17EN_17_Motion_02_2012 17 15.11.12 13:3815.11.12 13:38
18 Motion 02.2012
NEU-DEHLI
Bangalore
WASHINGTON D.C.
Miamisburg
WHAT ARE YOU DOING NOW?
“WE HAVE 6,000 SPARE PARTS AVAILABLE IN OUR WAREHOUSE”
“I am in the materials warehouse, checking the shipping documents for
outgoing shipments. I started at United Grinding in Miamisburg in 1994.
In those days we still had to order special spare parts from Europe. And
so my team and I started building our own warehouse. Today it has a
total of 6,000 spare parts and a surface area of 774 square meters.
We also have four Lean Lifts and a vertical storage carousel. The tower
operates as follows: when a spare part is deposited, a chain pulls it
upwards and then a new one appears. This system has enabled us to
hugely increase our effi ciency. We can now optimally utilize the existing
area and store thousands of spare parts in a minimal space. So in addi-
tion to offering our customers a wide range of parts, we can also supply
them quickly. As Supply Chain Manager I am responsible for purchasing,
inventory and planning. I fi nd that travel is a great antidote to my working
life. I have already been to Mexico, Germany and the Czech Republic. I
would also like to go to China and Finland.”
“I am advising a customer on the most suitable machine from our range.
As Deputy Sales Manager I market and sell STUDER products through-
out India. I started my career at STUDER in 1996, before which I worked
for a STUDER agent for 10 years. I have been representing the entire
SCHLEIFRING Group since 2007 I have now been here for 16 years –
longer than any other employee. The customers, with some of whom
I have worked continuously over the years, also benefi t from my many
years of experience. Sometimes they even call me on the weekend.
I don’t mind: my phone and laptop are always ready in hand. Before I
go to the offi ce in the morning, I always have a 45 minute walk in one
of Bangalore’s many parks. This keeps me fi t and helps me to mentally
prepare for the tasks ahead.”
NAME: Hoovegowda Prabhakar
POSITION: Deputy General Sales Manager
at Körber Schleifring,
Bangalore, India
CONTACT: [email protected]
NAME: Dean Tackett
POSITION: Supply Chain Manager at United
Grinding Technologies,
Miamisburg, USA
CONTACT: [email protected]
“I HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH MANY CUSTOMERS FOR YEARS”
Over 2,000 people work for the SCHLEIFRING
Group around the world. But what do they
actually do? In the new series we will introduce
four employees in each Motion edition, such
as Jessica Qian from Wuxi in China
TEXTS: JOHANNA PRUSKI
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INSIDE
EN_18_Motion_02_2012 18EN_18_Motion_02_2012 18 19.11.12 11:0019.11.12 11:00
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 19
PEKING
Wuxi
Etziken
BERLIN
Tübingen
BERN
“I MAKE SURE THAT THINGS GO SMOOTHLY WITH OUR CUSTOMERS”
“I ADVISE OUR CUSTOMERS ON SITE BEFORE THE MACHINE IS EVEN INSTALLED”
“I have just returned from a meeting attended by all the salespeople and
assistants from the WALTER and EWAG team. We meet every four to six
weeks to discuss projects and work together to solve problems. As Tool
Grinding Machine Sales Management Assistant I communicate with all
departments, help my boss to coordinate his diary, make appointments,
draw up a provisional budget plan or deal with accounting. I do everything
to ensure that things function smoothly and that we can quickly meet all
customer requirements. What I particularly enjoy about my job is dealing
with customers. I fi nd it interesting to meet different people. When I have
some time off I like to get to know new countries. I’m going to Taiwan
next. I’d also like to visit England, Spain and Germany. At any rate, a
country where I can watch live football in a stadium.”
“After convincing our biggest customer in England to take out mainte-
nance contracts for his WALTER machines, I am back in Tübingen at
our Demo Center, preparing for a meeting with a potential customer.
As Service Customer Advisor I present upgrade options and services
such as maintenance contracts, general overhauls or the possibility of
networking our machines. All of this is done beforehand, not just when
the machine is installed. Through my advice the customer learns how
he can optimize his products and how processes can be made more ef-
fi cient. I travel abroad a lot, so that I can advise each customer on site. In
2010 I visited around 120 customers throughout Europe. Many of them
had several WALTER machines. When I’m not traveling I enjoy reading
a good book after work like Paulo Coelho’s “Aleph” or listening to Norwe-
gian musician Kari Bremnes.”
NAME: Jessica (Huan) Qian
POSITION: Assistant to Head of Tool Sales
at Körber Schleifring Machinery
(Shanghai), Wuxi, China
CONTACT: [email protected]
NAME: Daniel Grasser
POSITION: Service Customer Adviser at
Walter Maschinenbau, Tübingen
(D) and Ewag AG, Etziken (CH)
CONTACT: daniel.grasser@walter-machines.
com
EN_19_Motion_02_2012 19EN_19_Motion_02_2012 19 15.11.12 16:0715.11.12 16:07
20 Motion 02.2012
The three participants in the Motion interview,
from left: Expert Christian Geßner, Stephan Nell,
Chairman of the Management Board of KÖRBER
SCHLEIFRING, and Christian Wriedt, Chairman
of the Executive Board of the Körber Foundation
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INTERVIEW
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MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 21
MORE THAN JUST FINE WORDSStephan Nell, Christian Wriedt and expert Christian Geßner
take part in the Motion interview on the perspectives
which the issue of sustainability offers the SCHLEIFRING Group –
for customers and for staff
EN_21_Motion_02_2012 21EN_21_Motion_02_2012 21 15.11.12 12:4515.11.12 12:45
22 Motion 02.2012
Motion: Today the concept of sustainability adorns business reports and ser-mons. Listed corporations document their competitiveness with information on sus-tainability. Can you remember when this issue fi rst started gathering momentum?
Christian Wriedt: It was during the oil crises of
1973 and 1979, when we were able to walk on
the motorway on car-free Sundays. But no one
had come up with the term „sustainability“ yet.
Dr. Christian Geßner: The Club of Rome and
Dennis Meadows with „Limits to Growth“ in
1972 were the determining factor for me. This
book resulted in the development of this issue
from the environmentalist scene. But it was only
in 1992 during the World Climate Summit in Rio
that sustainability was established as a political
paradigm, because 178 nations said: „We want
to become more sustainable and develop sus-
tainability strategies for our countries.“ In the
years that followed, the issue wasn‘t exactly
important in commerce. At most it was consid-
ered under the aspect of risk management and
it was stressed that not only economic risks, but
also social environmental risks are important.
We were not allowed to utter the word „sus-
tainability“. No entrepreneur wanted to hear it,
because it was „eco“. That has changed now.
Today it‘s noticeable how much has been done
in companies. Today it‘s rather: We have a lot to
offer in all three pillars of sustainability.
Christian Wriedt: But this must always be based
on a functional and cost-effective business
model, otherwise you mustn‘t even talk about
sustainability. Unfortunately this basic under-
standing constantly takes a back seat. Conse-
quently the concept is now also a little worn in
my view.
Mr. Nell, when did you fi rst enter the world of sustainability?
Stephan Nell: Exactly 22 years ago. My fi rst em-
ployer came from the aluminium sector, which
consumes extremely high amounts of energy.
We were therefore intensively concerned with
this issue at that time.
Today sustainability is a concept by which
people understand many different things. And
unfortunately it is now often only used from a
marketing perspective. There is a term for this
too: Greenwashing. But sustainability is then
not really a living concept, but serves only to
make the company in question look good.
Why is sustainability not an inherent part of human actions? And which factors have led to the development of non-sustainable actions?
Stephan Nell: Non-sustainability is the result of
short-term goal orientation and egotistical be-
havior. Sustainability takes time. But the world
of commerce was characterized by quick re-
sults for decades.
Christian Wriedt: This is because of our capital
market system. In this respect what we have
already said is 100 percent correct. Vice-ver-
sa, however, this means: Sustainability and
longer timescales must not result in slower
progress – because the market would penalize
this immediately.
Stephan Nell: Companies need a long-term
time frame for sustained positive development.
At some point we realize that effi ciency must not
be allowed to suffer.
Christian Wriedt: I‘ll try to express this in busi-
ness management terms: Sustainability means
„JUST A FEW YEARS AGO WE COULDN‘T UTTER THE TERM SUSTAINABILITY - NO BUSINESSMAN WANTED TO HEAR IT. THAT HAS CHANGED.“Christian Geßner
STEPHAN NELLStephan Nell (44) took over as Chairman of the
Management Board of KÖRBER SCHLEIFRING on
1 January 2012. Nell joined Fritz Studer AG as Head
of Sales in 2003. He has been a member of the
Management Board since 2005 and has headed
Management since 2007. Within the framework
of the restructuring of the SCHLEIFRING Group in
February 2011 he assumed responsibility for Sales,
Service and Marketing.
CHRISTIAN WRIEDTChristian Wriedt (61) is a professional banker and
worked in the asset management branch of a life
assurance company from 1972. From 1992 he was
private asset manager for Kurt A. Körber. When
Körber‘s private assets went to the foundation after
his death, Christian Wriedt joined the Körber Found-
ation as Managing Director. He has been a member
of the Executive Board since 1996 and Chairman
since 2001.
DR. CHRISTIAN GESSNER
Christian Geßner (42) studied economics in
Münster and Heidelberg and received a doctorate
in business management at Hohenheim University.
At the beginning of 2009 he founded the „Center
for Sustainable Corporate Management“ (ZNU) at
Witten/Herdecke University.
IN CONVERSATION
Discussion in the Körber foundation in Hamburg: Sustainability expert Christian Geßner in
conversation with Stephan Nell and Christian Wriedt
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INTERVIEW
EN_22_Motion_02_2012 22EN_22_Motion_02_2012 22 15.11.12 12:4515.11.12 12:45
Motion 02.2012 23
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
conserving resources on all levels, because
resources cost money. At the end of the day
something that is more sustainable is also more
successful. But the more long-term way of
thinking must not lapse into indulgence, inertia
or complacency.
Christian Geßner: I believe it is possible to use
the egotism, which is also necessary in a com-
pany, productively. The entrepreneur says:
I want to create something, I want to build
something – but I will have to disregard certain
environmental aspects, so that I can develop
something. However, we must ask the ques-
tion: What are the political boundary conditions
for companies to develop more sustainably?
Politics has failed here in the past, because it
has not internalized external costs such as en-
vironmental pollution. If the costs incurred by
society due to non-sustainable activity were
refl ected in prices, we would very quickly have
a sustainable economy. In the present structure
the prices are always yesterday‘s. When crude
oil was cheap, we built motorways. At some
point we designed infrastructures accordingly.
Today there is a problem because petrol and
therefore driving are becoming increasingly ex-
pensive. We must ensure that the prices refl ect
reality - and thus encourage the right structures
for the future.
Christian Wriedt: If we still lived in a world that
thought and acted less globally, it might be eas-
ier to enforce more sustainable standards. But
today our competitor is in China – and not just
our competitor, but perhaps our customer too.
Other cultures and societies place different pri-
orities on sustainability, so that they can catch
up with our standard of living quickly.
Christian Geßner: Nevertheless, the Chinese
are also concerned with this issue. But what are
we doing? In the automotive industry growth is
not coming from the domestic market at pres-
ent, but through exports. We are manufacturing
three-liter cars and selling the big gas guzzlers
to Asia. We have to ask: Is this what the cus-
tomer really needs?
Stephan Nell: Sustainability doesn‘t just start
with the end products, like this three-liter car.
Sustainability must also shape the production
process. In machine construction this means:
We need machines that operate more effi cient-
ly. Machines that not only consume less energy
but also operate for shorter periods, so that the
process is accelerated. This is a key future issue
for our industry and we must therefore invest in
research and development specifi cally from this
viewpoint. This is already expected and reward-
ed by many customers today. And if a customer
is not yet focused on the issue of sustainability,
he still gets a more effi cient process.
To put it bluntly: Do you have to be able to afford sustainability, or is it the key to higher value creation?
Stephan Nell: We are currently in between these
two positions. I am confi dent that it will be pos-
sible to make money with sustainability in future.
The larger European corporations in particular
are now ready to invest in sustainability - also in
order to earn more money later.
Christian Wriedt: I also believe that we are po-
sitioned somewhere in the middle. This starts
with the business model: Do I have a product
which the market needs? Why should cus-
tomers go to the SCHLEIFRING Group if they
want to solve a grinding problem? They do it
because they get an increased benefi t from the
SCHLEIFRING companies. This also includes
saving resources: Energy, material consump-
tion and all types of emissions; also the footprint
of a machine. All of this plays an increasingly
important role, in addition to technology, and
brings competitive advantages to the business
idea and the supportable business model.
Christian Geßner: I don‘t believe that we can‘t
afford sustainability. The question doesn‘t even
arise. The room for maneuver is decreasing all
the time. As soon as politicians acknowledge
the issue, companies will no longer have much
room for maneuver. At present sustainability is
still not cashfl ow-effective, but it is already a
perceptible strategic advantage.
Stephan Nell: Energy is expensive, and so
everyone is worried about power consumption.
This is purely a matter of money. I often go to
Stephan Nell explains which changes can be made in a machine construction company
in order to drive development in the direction of greater sustainability
„SUSTAINABILITY MUST ALSO SHAPE THE PRODUCTION PROCESS. IN MACHINE CONSTRUCTION THIS MEANS: WE NEED MACHINES THAT OPERATE MORE EFFICIENTLY.“Stephan Nell
EN_23_Motion_02_2012 23EN_23_Motion_02_2012 23 15.11.12 12:4515.11.12 12:45
24 Motion 02.2012
China on business. More and more Chinese are
starting to focus on sustainability. If they build
their own airplanes, for example, then they build
lightweight ones.
How can a grinding machine manufacturer act sustainably? The grinding machine is always integrated into processes. But what can be done on the machine itself?
Stephan Nell: That starts with our own produc-
tion process. We use systems that avoid waste.
One example: Normally a machine needs a
warm-up phase. We use preheating units that
bring it up to temperature much more quickly.
Or: Previously no attention was paid to the fact
that units keep running even when they are not
needed. These can now be switched off using
an intelligent control. So there are many differ-
ent approaches: Do I cool a building with an air-
conditioner or with a heat pump and consume
far less energy? And, of course, our machines
help to improve our customers‘ processes. I‘ll
give you an example of this too: Until recently
an eco engine manufacturer needed fi ve ma-
chine tools to produce a part. Processing time
two weeks, with intermediate storage and
everything that goes with it. Today he makes it
on a single machine. The part is ready in just a
few minutes and no longer needs to be stored.
Are grinding machines also sustainable, because they are durable products?
Stephan Nell: This essentially depends on the
customers. In the past they often had purely
„CUSTOMER BENEFIT IS THE KEY TO OUR LONG-TERM SUCCESS. BUT THIS IS MORE THAN JUST PROCESS OPTIMIZATION.“Stephan Nell
Christian Geßner (left) and Stephan Nell discussing the question of to what
extent the corporate form affects the sustainability strategy – very strongly, the
discussion participants agree
Stephan Nell (left) also relates the concept of
sustainability to the issue of staff motivation
short-term goals. They purchased machines
for a specifi c part, used them for three to fi ve
years and then disposed of them. Today a
high percentage of the machines that we sold
twelve years ago are still in use. Previously the
conversion of machines was often diffi cult and
very expensive. Today we are following a brand
new concept with the S22 from STUDER, for
example: the platform. If the part which the cus-
tomer produces on the machine is discontinued
after a few years, the customer can completely
replace individual modules and so continue to
use the machine.
The driving force is always the search for the most intelligent process for the customer.
Stephan Nell: I am convinced that customer
benefi t is the key to our long-term success. But
this is far more than process optimization.
We constantly ask ourselves: What must we do
to be successful in the long term? We don‘t just
think about being successful in the next one or
two years. We want to still be Number One in
ten or twenty years. We will only succeed in this
if we provide our customers with the best solu-
tions for their requirements.
How does corporate form infl uence the ability to act sustainably?
Christian Geßner: In listed companies, the is-
sue of sustainability is driven purely by external
factors. The rating agencies check sustainabil-
ity criteria. So all are moving in a defi ned direc-
tion. Family businesses are also increasingly
asking themselves: What good things have we
done in the last few years? Why don‘t we high-
light these?
Christian Wriedt: There are different driving
forces for listed companies. Entire fund groups
advertise that they only keep sustainable shares
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INTERVIEW
EN_24_Motion_02_2012 24EN_24_Motion_02_2012 24 15.11.12 12:4515.11.12 12:45
Motion 02.2012 25
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
„ALL OF THE FACETS OF SUSTAINABILITY MAKE A COMPANY ATTRACTIVE TO GOOD NEW EMPLOYEES IN THE GLOBAL COMPETITION FOR TALENT.“Christian Wriedt
Christian Wriedt introduced the perspective of the Körber Foundation to the discussion
in their portfolio. If this acts as a marketing tool
with investors, the fund collects more value and
has to sell more shares. With the result that: The
share price rises. The executive board is ulti-
mately paid via a variable remuneration in share
options and in this example profi ts from its busi-
ness decision in relation to sustainability.
Employees must also act sustainably. The SCHLEIFRING Group makes substan-tial investments in the basic and further training of its employees. What does the company actually gain from this?
Stephan Nell: Grinding is an art. No textbook
explains which clamping angle the plate must
have or which speed is right. Hence the claim
of one of our companies: „The Art of Grinding“.
I have learnt how to grind myself and so I know:
Grinding must be felt. Only experienced spe-
cialists can do this. We make substantial invest-
ments in our staff, because we are convinced
that this is ultimately more sustainable, more
advantageous and more effi cient for the com-
pany than a high level of fl uctuation. It also pro-
duces motivation.
Does sustainability also play a part in motivation?
Christian Geßner: There are companies that
appoint sustainability ambassadors and inject
employees with the principles of sustainability
from the outset. I believe it works wonders if
you can manage to place a company‘s practice
in a wider context. Then you can say: We are
making a contribution. Even if this is only mar-
ginal, we are meeting our responsibilities. If we
create a connection between society and the
company, if an exchange takes place and the
employees feel better off as a result, one can
also live with much fl atter hierarchies and del-
egate more. For me this is an important point
with regard to sustainability. This includes staff
recruitment and motivation, but also the issue
of health management. What are the work-
ing conditions like? What am I doing for my
employees beyond the legal requirements?
How do I promote the issue of diversity? We
will need a large workforce from other countries
if we are to continue to be productive. Compa-
nies must be culturally prepared for this.
Christian Wriedt: All of these facets contribute to
the image, the face of the company. This makes
a company attractive for good new employees
in the global competition for talent.
Stephan Nell: Sophisticated technology and
the capacity for innovation have long been
what makes a company attractive in machine
construction. That is still the case today, but
both existing and potential employees are in-
creasingly asking what a company does for the
community. Money alone does not motivate
anyone in the longer term.
The term sustainability is linked with many things today. Is it in danger of becoming arbitrary?
Christian Geßner: Naturally the catchall phrase
is a danger. However, there are many standard-
ization initiatives - in sustainability reports, for
example. In the coming years this will mean that
companies won‘t be able to talk about sustain-
ability so easily, but will have to fulfi l certain cri-
teria. We are thus following a European culture
of verifi ability of values. Our understanding of
sustainability is a growing philosophy.
INTERVIEW: MICHAEL HOPP
CONTACT [email protected]
SUSTAINABILITYTo supplement the Motion interview read extracts from „Values and Principles of the Körber Group“ in the original:
STRATEGIES AND COMMERCIAL GOALSAs the owner of our group the Körber Foun-
dation, in its role as shareholder, requires us
to achieve sustained economic success and
increase our company value. The group‘s long-
term positive development takes priority over
short-term profi t maximization.
SOCIAL AND CORPORATE ACTIONOur business activity is based on corporate and
social principles to which we feel committed in
relation to our staff, customers, suppliers and
other business partners. For us it is an important
goal to use the capital available to us in such
a way that people can fi nd work with us. The
group‘s sustained profi table development is also
essential for our ability to fulfi l or promote social
and corporate responsibilities.
EN_25_Motion_02_2012 25EN_25_Motion_02_2012 25 19.11.12 11:0419.11.12 11:04
26 Motion 02.2012
A DAY WITH …DANIEL HUBERThe manager of Fritz Studer AG’s Internal
Grinding Competence Center in Biel is a true
expert in his fi eld. We accompanied him on
a normal working day
7.50BIEL, Switzerland
Arrival at the company: The sun shines into the corner offi ce, which is fl ood-
ed with light. After a cup of coffee Daniel Huber discusses the day’s schedule
with his assistant, Ingrid Meier. On the desk: Photographs of his children and
toys. “My family is very important to me”, he says.
FOR YEARS DANIEL HUBER was the Managing Director
of Combitec AG in Biel. The company, founded by
his father in 1982, produced high-precision grind-
ing machines with their own operator interface as
well as simulation software specially geared to the
requirements of internal grinding. It has its roots
in the user-specifi c combination of automation
modules. This is also where the name Combitec
comes from. The fi rst customers were manufac-
turers of precision threaded rings. “Our success
story began at that time with a thread grinding
cycle which we developed ourselves, which was
twice as fast as all previously established solu-
tions,” explains Daniel Huber.
Because of the many crossovers in the profession-
al environment, Huber already had a long-standing
intensive relationship with Fritz Studer AG in
nearby Thun. “We used to constantly discuss the
current situation and the outlook for the future”,
says the 48-year old Huber. The idea for a col-
laboration came about in 2007 at the tool industry
trade fair EMO, in a conversation between Huber
and STUDER’s Managing Director, Fred Gaegauf.
“I presented the features of our new software to
him”, he recalls. As the companies complemented
each other ideally, they quickly agreed to partner
up: since November 2008 Huber has managed
STUDER’s Internal Grinding Competence Center
in Biel. Today customers all over the world profi t
from the amalgamation of big and small, of Stud-
er’s global service network and Huber’s expertise
in the application sector.
CONTACT
7.30Departure: After breakfast
with his family Daniel
Huber leaves home well
prepared for the day.
His wife, a fl orist, looks
after their two children
(13 and 15 years old).
“Managing a department
wouldn’t be possible
without my wife’s
support”, says Huber.
SCHLEIFRING GROUP A DAY WITH …
EN_26_Motion_02_2012 26EN_26_Motion_02_2012 26 15.11.12 17:1415.11.12 17:14
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 27
11.15BIEL, Switzerland
Software meeting: He has been
working with his team for a long time.
You can see that he enjoys his job.
“I take pleasure in my work. But the
environment must also be right. You
have to feel comfortable in the team”,
he says. After his lunch break Huber
drives to a meeting in Thun, just under
60 kilometers away.
10.00BIEL, Switzerland
Meeting with the Technology Department: As Competence
Center Manager, Daniel Huber must monitor the activities of the
respective departments. He regularly meets up with his team
to discuss individual machines, develop new components and
discuss current projects.
“WITH OUR SOFTWARE YOU CAN CREATE GRINDING CYCLES AUTOMATICALLY – INPUT ERRORS ARE EXCLUDED.” Daniel Huber, Internal Grinding Competence Center Manager
EN_27_Motion_02_2012 27EN_27_Motion_02_2012 27 15.11.12 12:3915.11.12 12:39
28 Motion 02.2012
15.30THUN, Switzerland
Outside appointment: Huber discusses the current status of a proj-
ect, which is still in the development phase, with executive staff from
the Technology Department. The development of new business areas
is also part of his job. “I like the wide variety of tasks and responsibilities
that make up my job”, he adds.
19.55BIEL, Switzerland
Arrival in Biel: After a 30-minute car journey
Daniel Huber returns to Biel. A busy day,
which is normal for him. He fi nds an antidote
to his job in sport: “I go running or carting
three times a week”, he says.
18.00AARBERG, Switzerland
Client meeting: He has known the customer in Aarberg,
17 kilometers away, for years. But good preparation is
still the be all and end all: “It is important to me that I can
provide expert advice down to the smallest detail”,
explains the perfectionist.
SCHLEIFRING GROUP A DAY WITH …
EN_28_Motion_02_2012 28EN_28_Motion_02_2012 28 15.11.12 12:3915.11.12 12:39
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
NEWS FROM THE SCHLEIFRING GROUP
Blade manufacture: The MÄGERLE
MFP 100 grinds parts for Siemens
AG gas turbines – and contributes
to the world effi ciency record for
power generation
CONTENTS
30 MÄGERLE MFP 100How the grinding center makes not
only gas turbines more effi cient
32 KRONOS S 125How the precision operator pro-
duces even the smallest workpieces
34 HELICHECK BASIC 2 How an inspection camera opti-
mizes tool measurement
35 FLEXGRIND MHow the new absolute measuring
head almost halves working time
35 ORBITHow the newly developed series
is setting standards
EN_29_Motion_02_2012 29EN_29_Motion_02_2012 29 15.11.12 13:5015.11.12 13:50
30 Motion 02.2012
TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
UNIQUE FEATURE – DUAL DOUBLE GRIPPERThe development of the MFP 100 from MÄGERLE is based on the demanding
requirements of manufacturers of stationary gas turbines. Soon other industries
will also profi t from the grinding center’s capabilities
Grinding for
power generation:
a gas turbine from
Siemens AG
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Motion 02.2012 31
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Large machine
with a small footprint:
MFP 100 from
MÄGERLE
GAS TURBINE MANUFACTURERS are particularly de-
manding. They require very precisely designed
turbine stator and rotor vanes, as well as heat
shields, and they want these to be manufac-
tured even more quickly and cheaply. “We
developed the MFP 100 precisely for this pur-
pose!” says Rainer Hungerbühler, Head of Sales
and Marketing at MÄGERLE. This new grinding
center can machine very large workpieces up
to a diameter of 615 millimeters and 547 mil-
limeters in length, also with highly complex ge-
ometries, effi ciently and precisely.
The unique dual double gripper accelerates
tools and diamond rolls exchange yet further. It
exchanges two old for two new tools in a single
operation. In its standard version it can take up
to 30 different tools such as grinding wheels
and diamond dressing discs for continuous
dressing during the grinding process. These
are a maximum size of 300 or 160 millimeters
in diameter.
12 000 KILOS IN A SMALL SPACENot only is the manufacture of ever more com-
plex shapes for stationary gas turbines possible,
but this advancement also impacts on other
machine manufacturers. Because everyone in
this industry appreciates what Rainer Hunger-
bühler expresses as follows: “The less clamping
we have, the more precisely a workpiece can
be manufactured.”
The changer can optionally also be equipped to
take up to 60 tools, such as drilling and milling
tools and measuring probes. The tool data man-
agement is generously designed with a capacity
of around 500 tools. This 12 000 kilogram ma-
chine only requires the smallest space. It stands
on an area of just 4.6 meters by 4.0 meters. “We
have also placed particular emphasis on ease of
operation”, explains Rainer Hungerbühler and
points out that the workpieces can be fl exibly
loaded from the front or the top. The machine’s
ergonomic design not only facilitates access to
the workpiece, but also maintenance.
COST EFFECTIVE IN 24/7 OPERATIONThe modular MFP 100 has also been de-
veloped for the tough conditions of large
batches and high stock removal volumes.
In cost-effective but technically demanding
24/7 operation it operates with a travel speed
of 0.01 millimeters to 40 meters per minute in
the X-axis. In the Y and Z-axis this is between
0.001 millimeters and 30 meters per minute.
The X-axis offers a longitudinal stroke of up to
1000 mm, from which the type designation of
the MFP 100 also derives. The standard NC
table for two axes can be exchanged for one
for three axes. Compact design, high perfor-
mance, short tool change times and versatility
result in very low piece costs of the precision-
manufactured workpieces.
CONTACT
YOUR ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE• Robust and dynamic CD grinding and machining
center with a spindle power of 50 kW
• Particularly suitable for machining turbine rotor
and stator vanes, as well as heat shields
• Quick and fl exible tool changer with a special
dual double gripper
• Can take up to 30 different tools – for example
15 grinding wheels and 15 diamond dressing discs
• Versatile, customer-specifi c machine
confi gurations thanks to modular design
• Short tool change times
• Space-saving footprint
EN_31_Motion_02_2012 31EN_31_Motion_02_2012 31 15.11.12 13:5015.11.12 13:50
32 Motion 02.2012
TOOLS & TECHNOLOGYTOOTOOLLS & TECHNOLOGYGY
PRECISION OPERATORThe KRONOS S 125 enables cost-effective series and mass production of cylindrical,
tapered and convex workpieces - with high precision and effi ciency
WHAT DO NOZZLE NEEDLES AND VALVE NEEDLES,
pump pistons, valve pistons and compres-
sor crankshafts, bearings and fi t bolts have
in common? They all require high preci-
sion during their manufacture. This makes
them ideal applications for the KRONOS S
125 from MIKROSA, which is perfectly fi t for
the high-precision machining of small work-
pieces. More than 100 machines have been
delivered in various industries and for diverse
applications.
The machine features a unique concept with
cross slide systems for the grinding and regulat-
ing wheel, which enables great fl exibility during
grinding. “The KRONOS S 125 offers signifi cant
advantages, particularly for anyone who wants
to combine high productivity with equally high
precision”, states Karsten Otto, Technical Direc-
tor at Schaudt Mikrosa GmbH.
EXCEPTIONAL COST EFFICIENCYThe KRONOS S 125 is equipped with a grinding
spindle mounted on hybrid bearings for periph-
eral speeds of up to 120 meters per second. In
combination with CBN high-speed technology,
the cycle time can be reduced and the cost ef-
fectiveness considerably increased. Centerless
external cylindrical grinding enables effective
series and mass production of cylindrical, tap-
pered and convex workpieces.
Two different process variants are available:
infeed grinding and throughfeed grinding.
In comparison with other cylindrical grind-
ing processes centerless external cylindrical
grinding offers a higher stock removal rate
combined with high production accuracy, to
which MIKROSA is traditionally committed.
SUPERIOR AXIS RESOLUTIONThe axis resolution is 0.01 micrometers, which
is phenomenal for such grinding processes.
Digital drives enable the highest precision and
fast traversing speeds. This capability is anoth-
er important prerequisite for the safe produc-
tion of workpieces with a tolerance range of
just plus/minus 0.5 micrometers under cost-
effective production conditions.
CONTACT [email protected]
EN_32_Motion_02_2012 32EN_32_Motion_02_2012 32 15.11.12 13:5015.11.12 13:50
Motion 02.2012 33
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
STANDARDIZED AUTOMATIONThe KRONOS S 125 offers standardized
automation as a keyhole solution and variable
gripper systems (single and multiple gripper).
The workpiece change time is maximum
three seconds.
EFFECTIVE INFEED GRINDINGTargeted precision-grinding of diameter and
face in a single infeed (straight or inclined 15°)
is particularly effective. Several operations can
be accomplished by offsetting the workpiece
or grinding wheel. Oscillating infeed grinding
is also possible.
SYNCHRONIZED OPERATIONSignifi cant advantages can also be achieved by
synchronizing workpieces, in a way that several
work operations are linked together.
ALL ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE• Huge fl exibility during set-up of the machine,
dressing and grinding
• Quick and precise grinding due to rigid
machine bed as well as grinding and regulating
spindles supported on both sides
• Reproducibility of grinding results even in
the narrow tolerance range of plus/minus
0.5 micrometers
• CBN high-speed technology (optional)
• Highly precise and exactly reproducible
NC-controlled taper correction function
• Grinding spindle with maintenance-
free hybrid roller bearings and integrated
balancing unit
• Different cooling media such as emulsions or
oil available
• Siemens SINUMERIC 840D or 840D sl
Maintenance-free control system
• MIKROSA software with customized user
interface and self-explanatory symbols and
graphics for simple programming
• Highest environmental and safety standards
due to full enclosure
Optimally suited
for the precise
machining of small
workpieces:
KRONOS S 125
“THE KRONOS S 125 OFFERS SIGNIFICANT ADVANTAGES, PARTICULARLY FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO COMBINE HIGH PRODUCTIVITY WITH EQUALLY HIGH PRECISION.” Karsten Otto, Technical Director of Schaudt Mikrosa GmbH
EN_33_Motion_02_2012 33EN_33_Motion_02_2012 33 15.11.12 13:5015.11.12 13:50
34 Motion 02.2012
TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
Non-contact measurement:
The machines in the Helicheck
series are ideally suited for
integration into the production
process
WHEN A MACHINE LEARNS TO SEE A new inspection camera for the visual inspection of
cutting edges and grinding results improves the potential
applications of WALTER Helicheck measuring machines
LAST YEAR Walter Maschinenbau GmbH
expanded the proven Helicheck series with
an additional optical 3-axis CNC measuring
machine – the Basic 2. The Helicheck Basic 2
is designed for complex profi le or form mea-
surements as well as reliable control measure-
ments such as diameter, step length or runout.
It boasts an attractive price/performance
ratio and is therefore particularly suitable as
an entry model or for in-process measure-
ments. This allows WALTER to offer an ideal
replacement for obsolete, conventional profi le
projectors. The measurement specialists
have provided their machine with an optional
inspection camera which, in addition to the
transmitted light camera (50 times or option-
ally 100 times magnifi cation) enables visual
inspection of the cutting edge and grinding
result in incident light.
Two color cameras with a resolution of
1,280 x 1,024 pixels, integrated LED lighting as
well as macro and micro optics with 35 times
or 400 times magnifi cation generate pictures
of complete tools as well as very small details
of these tools. This allows inspection of the tool
geometry as a whole, as well as the detection
of chips, surface and transition defects and
wear. Thanks to the documentation function
images can also be generated and measuring
microscopes completely replaced.
SIMPLE OPERATIONThe inspection camera is characterized
by its simple and intuitive operation. It has
been integrated into the proven Easy Check
software, so that it is compatible with the other
machines in the Helicheck series. User-guided,
interactive measurements can be performed
on this basis, and the generated measuring
cycles stored for repeat or series measure-
ment. Thanks to their arrangement on a
motorized rotating axis the cameras can be
used for both front and side view, i.e. axially
or radially. With these optical CNC measur-
ing machines WALTER offers non-contact
measurement of rotationally symmetric tools,
grinding wheels and production parts with the
highest precision. Specifi c feedback of the
measuring results enables optimal adjustment
of the grinding machines or machine tools. The
machines in the Helicheck series are therefore
ideal for integration into the production process
or measuring room. With the Helicheck Basic
2 and the new tailor made inspection camera,
the company is strengthening its position
in fully automatic tool measuring technol-
ogy. “We want to react quickly to customer
requirements. We have therefore continually
expanded our product portfolio during the last
few years”, explains Oliver Wenke, Head of the
Measuring Technology Development Center at
Walter Maschinenbau GmbH.
Complete transparency:
The new inspection camera
enables visual inspection
of the cutting edge and
examines the grinding result
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Motion 02.2012 35
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
WELL EQUIPPED FOR THE WORLD MARKET
Measuring controlled grinding of
the bearing seat of a gear shaft
on the FlexGrind M.
THE SHAFTS ARE UP TO FOUR METERS LONG and their weight of 1.2 tons is nearly the same
as that of a VW Golf – even such heavy workpieces are no problem for the FlexGrind
M universal cylindrical grinding machine from Schaudt Mikrosa GmbH. Thanks to its
modular design it can even machine huge workpieces, depending on the version. A
number of options such as external and internal cylindrical grinding, cylindrical and
noncircular grinding and traverse grinding are available. “With eight standard wheelhead
variants a wide variety of applications are possible”, explains Daniel Mavro, Head of
Process Engineering at Schaudt Mikrosa GmbH.
The DIATRONIC 22 absolute measuring head makes the FlexGrind M unique in this
machine class, as it permits measurement of the absolute diameter during the active
grinding process – or in other words: the measuring head controls the grinding process.
SCHAUDT has achieved a signifi cant advantage with peel grinding of rolls with CBN ce-
ramic (CBN stands for cubic crystalline boron nitride): the cycle time can be reduced from
120 to 67 minutes, an improvement of 44 percent.
The outstanding feature of the FlexGrind M is the
absolute measuring head, which allows measurements
while the grinding process is in operation
PRECISION CONTROL OF HEAVY WEIGHTS
FLEXGRIND M
FOR HEAVY WORKPIECESThe FlexGrind M universal cylindrical grinding
machine was developed for large workpieces. These
include rolls, shafts and spindles for machines, engine
parts and railway axles as well as printin rollers, paper
rollers or transmission components for wind power
plants and pumps.
“WE REALIZE A WIDE VARIETY OF APPLICATIONS ARE POSSIBLE FOR MACHINE AND VEHICLE CONSTRUCTION.” Daniel Mavro, Head of Process Engineering at Schaudt Mikrosa GmbH
IT IS NOW READY FOR SERIES PRODUCTION: ORBIT
is the surface and profi le grinding machine for
the small and medium grinding range. All three
sizes with grinding ranges from 500 x 200 to
800 x 400 millimeters are available ex works.
The customer can choose between a CNC
control system with tooling solution from JUNG
or the BLOHM EasyProfi le control unit with
intuitive touch operation for routine workshop
requirements. The ORBIT features a cross
slide concept and hydrodynamic guideways
in the X-axis. This connection ensures a very
consistent grinding pattern. The machines,
produced in China at Körber Schleifring Ma-
chinery Shanghai Ltd. (KSMS), are supplied to
the markets and confi gured in-situ in America,
Europe or Asia. Customers worldwide benefi t
from the short delivery times made possible by
these logistics.
The newly developed ORBIT
series sets standards in
the segment of small to
medium-sized fl at and profi le
grinding machines
EN_35_Motion_02_2012 35EN_35_Motion_02_2012 35 15.11.12 13:5015.11.12 13:50
36 Motion 02.2012
EWAG
GMO Gabelsberger
+ Cia. SA
Buenos Aires. Argentina
TODAY BRAZIL IS the world’s sixth largest economy, after the USA, China,
Japan, Germany and France. Brazil is also an important sales market for
the SCHLEIFRING Group. This was not always the case. However, in the
70’s the land of Sugarloaf, samba and carnival was one of the up and
coming economies: renowned automotive companies moved their pro-
duction to the South American continent. An automotive supply industry
gradually developed, and with it came grinding machine manufacturers.
In 1975 STUDER, already active in Latin America since the 60’s, started
building its own production plant in Santo Amaro in Sao Paulo and fi ve
years later began with the assembly of conventional OC type grinding
machines from kits. In 1984 Studer Ltda. moved into new premises in
Alphaville in the federal state of Sao Paulo, followed by the production of
the fi rst CNC machine, the S20-4, in 1986.
However, at the beginning of the 90’s things started going down-
hill again for Brazil. The SCHLEIFRING companies deliberately fo-
cused on customer proximity and used external dealers to represent
them locally. This year TDA Serviços Ltda has started representing the
Cylindrical Grinding Technology Group in the market, and more
STUDER machines have been sold in the fi rst six months than in the previ-
ous three years. Embraco and WEG, two world-renowned manufactur-
ers of compressors and electric motors, have also been customers of
STUDER, SCHAUDT and MIKROSA for years. Several dozen cylindrical
grinding machines from the SCHLEIFRING Group are in use with these
manufacturers. They are used to produce compressor and electric motor
shafts, as well as individual components for toolmaking.
BRAZIL IS BOOMING AGAINThe tool grinding machine manufacturers in the SCHLEIFRING Group are
also profi ting from Brazil’s positive economic development of the last few
years. As global companies such as automotive component suppliers,
electric motor manufacturers and tool makers as well as medical technol-
ogy manufacturers are rediscovering Brazil as a location, the demand for
standard and special tools is increasing. The WALTER and EWAG team
not only have a service department but also a spare parts warehouse in
A CONTINENT WITH ITS SIGHTS SET HIGHThe SCHLEIFRING Group’s commitment
in South America began in booming Brazil in
the 70’s. Today the group is also present
in Argentina, Columbia and Chile
STUDER, SCHAUDT, MIKROSA
TDA Serviços Ltda
São Paulo. Brazil
WALTERImocom
Bogota. Colombia
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INTERNATIONAL
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MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 37
Upturn in the South:
The branches of the
SCHLEIFRING Group
in South America are
also profi ting from the
positive economic
development
WALTER, EWAGWalter Maquinas Ltda.
Sorocaba. Brazil
EN_37_Motion_02_2012 37EN_37_Motion_02_2012 37 15.11.12 14:4315.11.12 14:43
38 Motion 02.2012
surface quality. Precision and repeatable precision are therefore crucial
for us,” says Herramar’s founder. This was not possible with the older,
conventional grinding machines; many products such as tungsten car-
bide cutters, for example, could not be machined at all. But thanks to the
CNC-controlled grinding machines from Germany not only has the com-
pany been able to solve new grinding tasks, but it has also been able to
substantially improve both quality and productivity and offer its customers
tools at an impressive price/performance ratio.
INITIAL SUCCESSES IN CHILEIn other countries of Latin America the SCHLEIFRING companies are
exclusively represented by dealers and cultivate relationships with their
customers from Switzerland and Germany. One of the most recent results
of this relationship management is the sale of a Helitronic Power to Chile.
After the global fi nancial crisis and the severe earthquake of 27 February
2010, with material damages of around 30 billion US dollars the Andean
nation is back on a stable growth track. “The importance of this sale can-
not be overstated, as classic industrial production is of secondary impor-
tance in Chile”, says Wolfgang Liebmann, export manager at WALTER
and responsible for all Latin American countries except Brazil. He knows
that Latin America is a small, but important market, because Argentina
and Brazil are enjoying substantial economic growth in South America.
“We assume that the South American market is growing in importance
and consequently have developed good contacts in all countries from
Chile through Columbia to Argentina”, says Rolf Grossenbacher, STUDER
Sales Manager for Asia and South America. “t is important to us to be
broadly established in Latin America, so that we can maintain proximity
to our customers and their requirements. In many countries we are at the
beginning of a success story.”
CONTACT [email protected]
Sorocaba in Sao Paulo. This also enables the two SCHLEIFRING com-
panies to deal with Brazil’s restrictive import regulations, which include
complex tax regulations with frequently changing calculation methods,
as well as import quotas and complicated registration with different au-
thorities. This process only becomes simpler for companies domiciled in
Brazil, which import under their own name and with their own resources.
“Having our own warehouse means that our local employees are able to
meet our customers’ requirements quickly and directly at all times. This
service is unique”, explains Christian Dilger, Sales Manager for WALTER
and EWAG. “No other tool grinding machine manufacturer can offer this
in Latin America.”
NOT JUST STEAKS FROM ARGENTINAAfter Brazil, Argentina is the second most important market in South
America for the companies in the SCHLEIFRING Group. The main en-
gine of Argentinian economic growth is the steadily growing motor vehicle
industry and the metal industry. A successful representative of this indus-
try is Herramar SRL based in Buenos Aires. The company, established in
1974 by Manfred Arheit, of German descent, produces special tools for
the machining, packaging and plastics industry, as well as for tools and
toolmaking. Arheit has been using WALTER tool grinding and measuring
machines for the last ten years. Herramar’s machine outfi t includes two
Helitronic Basic, a Helitronic Toolcheck and a recently purchased Heli-
tronic Power. Arheit primarily grinds and measures cutters and blades
on these WALTER machines, as well as rotating tools made from tung-
sten carbide and high-speed steel. “Our customers expect outstanding
“IT IS IMPORTANT TO US TO BE BROADLY ESTABLISHED IN LATIN AMERICA, SO THAT WE CAN MAINTAIN PROXIMITY TO OUR CUSTOMERS AND THEIR REQUIREMENTS.”Rolf Grossenbacher, STUDER Sales Manager for Asia and South America
Continuity: The Herramar company in Buenos
Aires has been using WALTER tool grinding and
measuring machines for ten years
SCHLEIFRING GROUP INTERNATIONAL
EN_38_Motion_02_2012 38EN_38_Motion_02_2012 38 15.11.12 14:4315.11.12 14:43
Motion 02.2012 39
Ilha deVillegaignon
Ilha deCotunduba
Ponta de Copacabana
Quinta daBoa Vista Campo
de Santana
Tijuca Park
JardimBotânoco Parque
TivoliJóqueiClube
Parque Nacional da Tijuca
Praiade Diabo
Lagoa
Rodrigo
de Freitas
O C E A N O
A T L Â N T I C O
Enseada deBotafogo
Ensedada Glória
Baía de
Guanabara
Praia do Ipanema
Prai
ade
Copa
caba
na
Praia do Leme
Prai
ado
Flam
engo
Praia do Leblon
ComplexoEsportivo doMaracanã
UniversidadeFederal
de Rio de Janeiro
Estrada de Ferro Corcovado
AeroportoSantos Dumont
R. Teixeira Soares
R. Maris e Barros
R. Haddock
Lobo
R. Conde de Bofim
R. dos Coqueiros
Av. Mem de Sá
Av. In
fante
Dom
Henri
que
Praia
doBo
tafogo
R. São ClementeAv. Pasteur
Av. Infan
teDo
mHenrique
R.
Humait
á
R. das Laranjeiras
R. Jardim Botãnico
R. Jardim
Botãnic
o
Av. Epitácio Pessoa
Av. Epi tá
cio
Pess
oa
Av. Delfim Moreira Av. Viera Souto
R. MárioRibeiro
Av. AtlânticaR. Tonelero
R. General Polido
ro
Av.V
isc.d
e Albuque
rque
R.
Almirante
Ale
xandrino
R. Itapir
u
Av. Atlântica
Av.
Atlân
tica
PraçaParis
PraçaSen. SalgadoFilho
Praça Gen.Alcio Souto
R.do
Calet
e
Praç
ado
Flame
ngo
R. Barão de Itapagipe
Av. EngenheiroFreyssinet
Av. Presidente
Av.PaulodeAv. FranciscoBicalho
Frontin
Kubitschek
Av. Presidente Vargas
Morro daNova Cintra
267
Mirante DonaMarta
363
Pão de Açúcar395
Morro da Urca215
Morro daBabilonia
235
Morro dosCabritos
385
Corcovado704
S e r r a d a C a r i o c a
CENTROSANTOCRISTO
ESTÁCIO
SANTA TEREZA
FLAMENGO
LAPA
COSMEVELHO
SUMARÉ
LARANJEIRAS
BOTAFOGO
COPACABANAJARDIMBOTÂNICO
LEBLON ARPOADORIPANEMA
LEME
URCA
0 1 km
www.kartographie.de
1
2
6
34
5
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
2 FAVELA SANTA MARTA, BOTAFOGOThe now safe neighbor-
hood of Favela is well
worth a visit. Popstar
Michael Jackson shot
a video clip here and an
Austrian energy drink
manufacturer used the
breathtaking backdrop
for a bike competition.
The brightly colored
houses in Santa Marta
designed by different
artists are particularly
spectacular.
6 CONFEITARIA COLOMBOYou’ll fi nd the best coffee in the
“Confeitaria Colombo”,
opened in 1894.
Designed in the style
of a Viennese coffee
house, original pure
Brazilian coffee
is served here
together with typical
sweet pastries.
3 LAPAThere is much to
discover in this
hip district. The
main streets are
lined with beautiful
architectural
features, such as
the impressive
steps between
Rua Joaquim Silva
and Rua Pinto Martin,
designed by a
Chilean artist.
4 SANTA TERESAIn the fi fties the quarter
was in danger of di-
lapidation, before it was
rediscovered by artists
and hippies. Today it
captivates visitors with
its originality and slightly
morbid charm. The
easiest way to get
there is with Rio’s
last remaining tram.
5 PRAIA VERMELHAIn addition to the famous beaches of
Copacabana and Ipanema, visitors to
Rio should also make a detour to this
smaller and friendlier family beach. There’s
no better place to observe the locals.
Sugarloaf, Copacabana and carnival – these are
the world-famous highlights of Rio. But the real face
of this cosmopolitan city can also be discovered
off the beaten tourist path in between two business
meetings. Checklist:
TRAVEL
STOPOVER IN RIO DE JANEIRO
1 COPACABANA PALACEThe Grande Dame,
located directly on the
renowned beach, offers a
superb panorama.
Book a sea view room and
enjoy the sensational
Sunday brunch on the
terrace by the pool.
EN_39_Motion_02_2012 39EN_39_Motion_02_2012 39 15.11.12 14:4315.11.12 14:43
40 Motion 02.2012
14
13,9
13,8
5,4
3,5
3,4
2,8
2,7
1,8
1,7
1,7
1,2
1,2
1,1
1,1
0,9
0,7
0,5
0,5
0,5
0,2
0,1
0,1
0,1
16
What do you think?
What opportunities do you
see in globalization?
Which strategies do you consider
promising in your markets?
Write to
THE VANGUARD OF GLOBALIAThe concept of “Hidden Champions” offers an explanation for the success achieved in exports by
German and Swiss companies. Its creator is the German expert Hermann Simon. Simon explains to
Motion how far, in his view, his theory is confi rmed by reality
In 1986 the renowned Harvard Professor Ted Levitt, who popularized
the expression ‘globalization’, asked me why the Germany economy is
always at the forefront of export. In the 25 years since, little has changed.
We were export world champion ten times during this period. Even 2011
brought another new record. Export, not domestic demand, is respon-
sible for our prosperity and low unemployment levels. Interest in the “Ger-
man model” has never been as great as it is today. Contacts from Korea,
Japan, China, France or the USA constantly want to know the reasons
for our success and what they can learn from us. And will Germany’s
strength in Globalia, as I call the globalized world of the future, continue?
What are the roots of this competitive strength? There are two answers.
Firstly, there is no single, all-encompassing reason. And secondly, it is not
due to the big corporations. The USA has four times and Japan has twice
as many Fortune Global 500 companies as Germany, and even France has
more. And yet the export performance of these countries is far behind that
of Germany.
The main cause for Germany’s continuing export success lies in the strength
of the midsize companies or, to be more precise, the elite of the midsize
companies, the so-called “Hidden Champions”. I have been collecting the
names of these little known midsize world market leaders for the past 25
years. My global list comprises 2734 companies, of which an incredible
1307 come from Germany. The Hidden Champions are responsible for a
good quarter of German exports. They are a unique phenomenon in the
world. Germany has 16 Hidden Champions per million inhabitants, France
has 1.1, the USA 1.2, Japan 1.7. Only Austria and Switzerland have similar
values, with just under 14 Hidden Champions per million inhabitants.
This fact inevitably leads to the question: Why are there so many Hidden
Champions in Germany? When we attempt to answer this question we
encounter a complex set of infl uencing factors, some of which go far back
into history and ultimately explain Germany’s export strength.
HISTORICAL SMALL STATE SYSTEMUnlike France, for example, up until the end of the 19th century Germany
was not a national state, but a conglomeration of small states. Any entre-
preneur who wanted to grow had to internationalize. The urge towards in-
ternationalization is in the blood of German entrepreneurs and still persists
today. They start exporting much earlier and with a smaller company size
than their foreign colleagues. This is the breeding ground on which Hidden
Champions and export success thrive.
TRADITIONAL SKILLSIn many German regions there are century-old skills which refl ect on the
present. For example watches have always been manufactured in the
Black Forest - a process requiring high precision skills. Watch making is
ultimately considered as “the key machine of the modern industrial age”
(Lewis Mumford). In the Tuttlingen region on the edge of the Black Forest
there are now more than 400 medical technology companies, which have
developed from this precision tradition - some even directly from watch-
makers. Or let’s take Göttingen. Why is it that it has 39 manufacturers of
measuring technology, many of them world market leaders? The explana-
tion is that the Faculty of Mathematics at Göttingen University has been
a leader in this fi eld for centuries. Some of these companies go back to
principles discovered by Carl Friedrich Gauss (“Measuring the World”). The
former Siemens CEO Edward Krubasik says: “Germany uses the technol-
ogy base that goes back to the Middle Ages to be successful in the 21st
GERMANYLUXEMBOURGSWITZERLAND
AUSTRIASWEDEN
SLOVENIADENMARK
NORWAYFINLANDBELGIUM
JAPANNETHERLANDS
ITALYUSA
FRANCEGREAT BRITAIN
ISRAELPOLAND
AUSTRALIACANADA
SOUTH KOREASPAIN
BRAZILCHINA
RUSSIA
ELITE OF THE MIDSIZE COMPANIES: THE HIDDEN CHAMPIONS
16
COUNTRY NUMBER OF HIDDEN CHAMPIONS PER 1 MILLION INHABITANTS
PER 1 MILLION INHABITANTS
GERMANY
SCHLEIFRING GROUP IDEAS
EN_40_Motion_02_2012 40EN_40_Motion_02_2012 40 15.11.12 14:5115.11.12 14:51
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
Motion 02.2012 41
2389
1467
12553
1725
4536
2287
1857
393
45
34
29
16
8
45
3
3
8,4
4,3
3,4
2,7
1,5
1,5
1,2
0,4
0,1
161,4
154,1
102,4
69,5
37,5
29,6
312,7
century”. The entrepreneur Peter Renner, also active in the fi eld of mea-
suring technology with his company Dolphin Technology, puts it like this:
“Germany is still a large engineering fi rm today”.
OUTSTANDING INNOVATIVE POWERFor the sake of simplicity we shall take the patents of European origin
granted by the European Patent Offi ce as an indicator. Germany has more
than twice as many patents per capita as France, four times as many as
Italy, fi ve times as many as Great Britain and 18 times as many as Spain
– not to mention Portugal (56 times as many) and Greece (110 times as
many). Only Switzerland and Sweden are ahead of Germany in the per-
capita patent fi gures.
STRONG PRODUCTION BASEUnlike Great Britain and the USA, for example, Germany has preserved its
production base. While this was considered antiquated until just a short
time ago, we are admired for it today. The correlation between production
base and current account balance is extremely high, at 79 percent. Al-
though Germany may be old-fashioned in this regard, much of its success
in export stems from this.
DEVELOPMENT OF UNIT LABOUR COSTSGerman exports have profi ted enormously from the favorable develop-
ment of unit labor costs in the last ten years. These only increased moder-
ately or even fell between 2002 and 2010, with the exception of the crisis
years 2008/9, while they rose by a total of 22 percent in the eurozone and
26 percent in France. The increase in Germany, on the other hand, was
just 6 percent.
STRONG COMPETITIONMichael Porter has highlighted the close correlation between strong
internal competition and sustained international competitiveness. The
chief competitors of a third of Hidden Champions are to be found in Ger-
many, often even in regional proximity. This strong internal competition
makes a signifi cant contribution to the export and competitive strength
of Germany companies.
INDUSTRY GROUPSThese include traditional groups, such as cutlery in Solingen, roller bear-
ings in Schweinfurt, locking technology in Velbert or pencils in Nürnberg.
Others, such as the fan group in Hohenlohe, the interface group in East-
ern Westphalia, the vacuum vessel group in Wertheim or the wind energy
group in Northern Germany are of more recent origin. Such groups, which
consist almost solely of midsize companies, generally concentrate the
world’s highest expertise in one region and promote top performance.
There are dozens of such groups in Germany.
DUAL VOCATIONAL TRAININGThis system, unique throughout the world, is regularly mentioned as one
of the major reasons for German competitive strength - and rightly so.
“Germany is in a very good position”, says an OECD study on vocational
training from 2010. Nothing further needs to be added, except perhaps
that more and more countries are endeavoring to align themselves with
the German system.
CENTRAL GEOSTRATEGIC POSITIONDistances and time zones exist even in Globalia, the globalized world of
the future. Germany holds a unique central position in this respect. We
can telephone Japan and California within normal offi ce hours. This is
not possible between America and Asia, as the time differences are ten
to twelve hours. Our travel times to the world’s most important business
centers are also shorter than for Asians or Americans. Even within Europe
we have a central position. These are advantages that become increas-
ingly important as globalization increases. However, we share them with
our European neighbors.
MENTAL INTERNATIONALIZATIONInternational business has always required broadened cultural horizons.
“The best language is the customer’s language”, in the words of Anton
Fugger. Among the large countries, Germany is some distance ahead in
mental internationalization. However smaller countries such as Switzer-
land, the Netherlands and Sweden are even further ahead.
CONTINUOUS GROWTHAt the beginning there are always goals. Goals relating to growth and their
systematic implementation are of central importance for the strategy and
development of Hidden Champions. Growth is a hugely important goal for
most. The growth targets are often extremely ambitious and are formulated
at an early stage. The sales of Hidden Champions have quadrupled on
average since 1995. The growth of Hidden Champions is characterized by
INNOVATIVE POWER AS TRADEMARK: EUROPEAN PATENTS 2010
COUNTRY PATENTS PATENTS PER 1 MILLION INHABITANTS
SWITZERLANDSWEDEN
GERMANYNETHERLANDS
FRANCEITALY
GREAT BRITAINSPAIN
CZECHIAHUNGARY
PORTUGALGREECE
SLOVAKIAPOLAND
BULGARIAROMANIA
312.7PATENTS PER 1 MILLION INHABITANTS
SWITZERLAND
EN_41_Motion_02_2012 41EN_41_Motion_02_2012 41 15.11.12 14:5115.11.12 14:51
42 Motion 02.2012
Photo
: S
imon K
ucher
a high degree of continuity. It seems better to grow continuously rather
than erratically. Surprisingly, the growth rates of Hidden Champions do
not differ signifi cantly depending on size. This strong growth has resulted
in the emergence of numerous large corporations and even DAX corpo-
rations (SAP, Fresenius Medical Care) from midsize companies. How-
ever, growth is not a panacea. There are also Hidden Champions who
are successful in the long term, without growing signifi cantly. However,
these companies generally operate in markets which are characterized
by special conditions.
LEADING THE MARKETHidden Champions claim to lead their market. For many Hidden Champi-
ons market leadership is an identity-forming goal, which plays a key role in
self-image and strategy. The defi nition of market leadership solely in terms
of market share is seen as being too narrow by most Hidden Champions.
Indeed, they associate with this concept an extensive claim to leadership
in relation to market participants such as customers and suppliers through
to competitors. The most important defi ning characteristics of the claim to
leadership lie in technology, quality, recognition and prestige, followed only
then by sales and quantities.
CLOSE FOCUSINGIt takes focus to become world class. Anyone who tries to win the gold
medal in both 100 meters and marathon will fail in both disciplines. Con-
centration is the essential prerequisite for top performance. Most hidden
champions are closely focused. This focusing can have different objects:
Customers, product, performance portfolio, expertise, access to resourc-
es, parts of the value creation chain, price segments etc..
CREATING UNIQUENESS THROUGH DEPTHIn management, depth is particularly connected with concepts such as
depth of the value chain or vertical integration. We also talk about in-depth
or detailed knowledge, an in-depth involvement with a problem, deep in-
sight and depth generally. Depth is an aspect that touches the very heart
of many hidden champions. Many hidden champions are convinced do-it-
yourselfers with a vertical integration of over 70 %. And in these companies
the commitment to making everything themselves does not appear do
have grown any weaker. They also transfer this attitude to new products.
When it comes to core competencies, hidden champions show a skeptical
attitude towards outsourcing.
GLOBAL MARKETINGAs we have seen, close focusing combined with depth forms the fi rst pillar
of the hidden champions’ strategy. It is the prerequisite for achieving and
maintaining world class. But focusing makes the market small. How do
we make the market big? Through global marketing! This is therefore the
second pillar of the hidden champions’ strategy. The hidden champions
are resolutely heading in the direction of Globalia. Although they are mid-
size companies, many of them have become truly global enterprises. The
world is their market, and they work persistently to expand their leading
market position to as many countries as possible. The world market is on
average eleven times larger than the German market. The global market
volume allows the realization of economies of scale even in narrow mar-
kets. Globalization proves to be the most important growth driver of hidden
champions. Any company that wants to grow should use this opportunity.
The conceptual basis for the success of the globalization strategy lies in the
fact that the customers in an industry have similar needs across different
countries. The experiences of the hidden champions show that it is better
to regionally expand in a conceptually narrow market than to enter different
markets in a region.
CUSTOMER PROXIMITYThe greatest strength of hidden champions - even before technology - is
their customer proximity. The “organizational distance” from the customer
is much smaller for midsize companies. The relationships between hidden
champions and their customers are decidedly close. Hidden champions
ensure close customer proximity and maintain close relationships with
their customers. The close customer relationship is constantly refl ected in
all indicators. Complex products, which are typical of hidden champions,
require such a close and interactive relationship with the customer. This
requirement is best met by direct marketing. This form of marketing is prac-
ticed by more than three quarters of all hidden champions.
In comparison with large corporations, the percentage of employees with
regular customer contact is around fi ve times higher. On the other hand
the hidden champions, unlike large corporations, are not marketing pro-
fessionals. However, as company size increases the professionalization of
marketing becomes more important, and considerable attention should
be devoted to maintaining customer proximity. The implementation of cus-
tomer proximity naturally benefi ts from the smaller size of the hidden cham-
pions and the associated less pronounced division of labor.
PERSISTENT INNOVATIONCompanies become world market leaders through innovation, not imita-
tion. And only through persistence in innovation and constant improve-
ments do they remain at the top. Innovations are one of the foundations
on which the market leadership of the hidden champions rests. Hidden
champions are distinguished by a consistently high innovative power. They
persistently innovate. Innovations are the main cause of the increase in
market shares in the recent past. High R&D intensity combined with high
effectiveness also gives grounds for optimism for the future. An innovation
must either contribute to higher customer benefi t and/or lower costs. In or-
der to achieve this, innovation activities must not just be limited to product
and technology but must also incorporate the customer’s processes. All
facets of business activity offer starting points for improvements and are
actually used by hidden champions.
is Chairman of the Simon - Kucher & Partners consult-
ing fi rm (www.hermannsimon.com). This article is a
summary produced by the author of his new book
“Hidden Champions – Aufbruch nach Globalia” (“Hid-
den Champions - The Vanguard of Globalia”), which
has just been published by Campus-Verlag Frankfurt.
PROF. DR. DR. H.C. MULT. HERMANN SIMON
WHO IS A HIDDEN CHAMPION?1. Top 3 companies in the world market or No. 1 on a continent:
Market position is generally defi ned by market share. If a company does not
know its exact market share, we use the relative market share/market share of
the strongest competitor. We rely on the companies’ data on market shares,
as an examination of all markets is not feasible. This also applies for
demarcation of the markets, which always contains subjective elements.
2. Turnover below 5 billion Euros: This limit was increased from 3 billion Euros
in 2005, thus allowing for the growth of these companies since 2005. Many
companies with typical hidden champion features have now grown to this
magnitude.
3. Low level of public awareness: This aspect cannot be precisely quantifi ed,
but over 90% of the included companies meet this requirement from a
qualitative point of view.
SCHLEIFRING GROUP IDEAS
EN_42_Motion_02_2012 42EN_42_Motion_02_2012 42 15.11.12 14:5115.11.12 14:51
Motion 02.2012 43
MÄGERLE BLOHM JUNG STUDER SCHAUDT MIKROSA WALTER EWAG
MOTION CALENDAR: THE MOST IMPORTANT DATES IN THE COMING MONTHS
You can fi nd further trade fairs at: www.schleifring.net
The international trade exhibition for metal processing technology, machines and tools is the leading trade show for the Russian machine tool industry. Supported by the Russian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, it will be held for the 14th time. Metal processing equipment and tools will be on show. An economic conference will complete the exhibition program. www.metobr-expo.ru
JUNE 2013
4. 6. - 7. 6. 2013 MACH-TOOL, POSEN, POLAND
One of the largest exhibitions of its kind: Mach-Tool. At the international trade fair for machine tools visitors can see new technologies, materials and applica-tion areas of the industry over a period of four days, as well as catching up on new trends. machtool.mtp.pl
JANUARY 2013
24. 1. - 30. 1. 2013 IMTEX, BANGALORE, INDIA
As the largest metalworking exhibition in India, IMTEX presents the complete range of products and technologies from the mechanical production sector. www.imtex.in
MARCH 2013
5. 3. - 10. 3. 2013 TIMTOS, TAIPEH, TAIWAN
As an international trade show for tools and machine tools, Taipei International Machine Tool Show (Timtos) is both an industry forum and information platform. Established in 1975, it takes place every two years. Among other things the visitor can expect punching and welding machines, as well as machine tools and precision technology. www.timtos.com.tw/
APRIL 2013
22. 4. - 27. 4. 2013 CIMT, PEKING, CHINA
The “China International Machine Tool Show” (CIMT) is the most important machine tool show in China and one of the four largest in the world. All well-known machine tool manufacturers come to Peking every two years. www.cimtshow.com
JANUARY 2013
7. 1. - 10. 1. TEKNO TUBE ARABIA, DUBAI, UAE
24. 1. - 27. 1. WIN, ISTANBUL, TURKEY
24. 1. - 27. 1. MACHINERY ISTANBUL, ISTANBUL, TURKEY
24. 1. - 30. 1. IMTEX, BANGALORE, INDIA
FEBRUARY 2013
26. 2. - 1. 3. INTEC, LEIPZIG, GERMANY
MARCH 2013
5. 3. - 10. 3. TIMTOS, TAIPEH, TAIWAN
6. 3. - 9. 3. METALL MÜNCHEN, MUNICH, GERMANY
APRIL 2013
9. 4. - 12. 4. MTA, SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
16. 4. - 19. 4. INDUSTRIE LYON,
LYON, FRANCE
22. 4. - 27. 4. CIMT, PEKING, CHINA
MAY 2013
20. 5. - 25. 5. FEIMAFE, SAO PAULO, BRAZIL
27. 5. - 31. 5. METALLOOBRABOTKA, MOSCOW, RUSSIA
28. 5. - 31. 5. MACH-TECH, BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
JUNE 2013
4. 6. - 7. 6. MACH-TOOL POSEN, POLAND,
12. 6. - 15. 6. MACHINE TOOL SURABAYA, SURABAYA,
INDONESIA
FEBRUARY 2013 26. 2. - 1. 3. 2013 INTEC, LEIPZIG, GERMANY
From complete machining centers through machine tools, tools, form-ing to individual production: at INTEC metalworking production technology is the center of attention. www.messe-intec.de
MAY 2013 27. 5. - 31. 5. 2013 METALLOOBRABOTKA, MOSCOW, RUSSIA
EN_43_Motion_02_2012 43EN_43_Motion_02_2012 43 15.11.12 14:5815.11.12 14:58
Körber Schleifring Machinery(Shanghai) Co. Ltd.1128, Tai Shun RoadAnting TownShanghai Jiading District201814, ChinaPhone +86-21-395873-33Fax [email protected]
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THE SCHLEIFRING GROUP WORLDWIDE
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Mägerle AG MaschinenfabrikAllmendstrasse 508320 Fehraltorf, SwitzerlandPhone +41-433-5566-00Fax [email protected]
Blohm Jung GmbHKurt-A.-Körber-Chaussee 63–71 21033 Hamburg, GermanyPhone +49-40-7250-02Fax [email protected]
Blohm Jung GmbHJahnstraße 80–8273037 Göppingen GermanyPhone +49-716-1612-0Fax [email protected]
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Schaudt Mikrosa GmbHSaarländer Straße 2504179 Leipzig, GermanyPhone +49-341-4971-0Fax [email protected]
Studer TEC K.K.Matsumoto Bldg. 2F4-10-8, Omorikita Ota-kuTokyo 143-0016, JapanPhone +81-36-80161-40Fax [email protected]
Walter Maschinenbau GmbHJopestraße 572072 Tübingen, GermanyPhone +49-7071-9393-0Fax [email protected]
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Walter Japan K.K.1st fl oor MA Park BuildingMikawaanjo-cho 1-10-14Anjo City 446-0056, JapanPhone +81-556-71-1666Fax [email protected]
Walter MachinesAsia Pacifi c Pte. Ltd.25 International Business Park#01-53/56 German Centre609916 SingaporePhone +65-65-6281-01Fax [email protected]
Walter Machines UK Ltd.B 13 Holly Farm Business ParkHoniley, CV8 1NP KenilworthGreat BritainPhone +44-19-26-4850-47Fax [email protected]
Walter Machines Italia SrlVia G. Garibaldi, 4222070 Bregnano (CO),ItalyPhone +39-031-7708-98Fax [email protected]
Walter Máquinas Ltda.Avenida XV de Agosto, 5.060Sorocaba, BrazilCEP: 18 085 290Phone +55-15-3228-6910Fax [email protected]
Körber Schleifring AG Jubiläumsstrasse 95CH-3005 Bern
Phone +41 31 356 01 11 Fax +41 31 356 01 12
EN_Umschlag_Motion_02_2012 44-1EN U hl M ti 02 2012 44 1 15.11.12 12:41Koerber_En.indd 44Koerber_En.indd 44 04.12.12 12:0404.12.12 12:04