A Smooth Setup

A brand-new gear grinding machine is whirring in the production hall of Tasowheel Gears. The acquisition decision was made in December, and, thanks to an exceptionally smooth commissioning process, the new machine is already in full swing.

Liebherr is a trusted supplier for Tasowheel in gear hobbing machines, but LGG-280 is the first Liebherr-branded gear grinding machine in the Tampere factory. The modern new machine with advanced automation replaced two gear grinding machines of previous generations without automatic features.

The new machine brings more efficiency and capacity in high-volume production with its integrated ring loader and short grinding times. It also creates direct value to the customers.

This was a clear investment in service quality. The increased capacity enables a better, faster, and more efficient service for more customers, Manufacturing Manager Aleksi Isoaho says.

A new machine acquisition project starts with a need definition. In this case, there was a clear understanding of own and customer needs right from the beginning.

We knew exactly what we wanted: more automation and efficiency.

Next, a team of experts from both Tasowheel and the supplier defined and implemented the project.

We had a great team with participants from different areas of expertise, ranging from production and production management to technical and customer service.

A multi-phased process

Machinery commissioning is a multi-phased process. First, a product plan is made of the products to be transferred to the new machine. Next, the custom fixtures – the special tools that attach the workpiece to the machine – are designed and manufactured for each product. Before this, proper user training and acceptance test runs are required.

Sometimes, the installation and commissioning of a new production machine can be a timely and demanding process. This time, everything proceeded fluently, following the predefined stages and in the given schedule. Even the communication was good, despite the pandemic restrictions.

This was a great example of a smooth commissioning project, thanks to our engaged and active team.

Also, the internal training has gone well: the personnel are already on board with the new machine – and happy with it.

The new machine has advanced features that support its effective and user-friendly operation, says Senior Operator Lauri Mäkelä.