Why HSK technology continues to transform moulding productivity
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
For more than 25 years, Weinig has delivered solutions that provide real productivity benefits to woodworking companies worldwide, including applying HSK (Hollow Taper Shank) tooling technology to moulders
During this time, thousands of machines have been installed around the world, with hundreds in daily use across the UK and Ireland by companies of every size, from small workshops to large-scale manufacturers. This outstanding success is a direct result of the financial benefits delivered by Weinig’s HSK tooling system.
Perhaps the most obvious advantage is the speed of tool changes. Instead of using an awkward two-handed spanner, tooling can be changed at the touch of a button. Simply press the conveniently positioned release button to activate the tool release mechanism and remove the tool in seconds rather than minutes. Insert the new tool, press the same button to lock it securely into position and the machine is ready to be set up for the next profile.
This dramatic reduction in changeover time allows manufacturers to profitably produce small batch orders that would previously have been uneconomical on conventional machines, delivering an immediate impact on the bottom line.
The engineering principles behind HSK tooling provides another significant advantage. By virtually eliminating the tolerances between the spindle shaft and the bored tooling block found on conventional moulders, spindle speeds can be increased to as much as 12,000rpm.
On a conventional machine running at 6,000rpm, a feed speed of around 12m/min would typically be required to achieve a high-quality finish. By doubling the spindle speed, feed speeds can also be doubled, allowing Weinig HSK users to significantly increase production while maintaining excellent machining quality.
These two benefits alone – rapid tool changes and higher feed speeds – deliver a swift return on investment. For example, in many applications, a single HSK-equipped moulder can replace two or even three conventional machines.
Additional financial benefits include lower electricity consumption for both the machine and extraction system, together with more efficient use of valuable factory floor space. This proven technology is available across a wide range of production capacities and investment levels.
The range starts with the compact five-head SOLID PROFILE P 700 and extends to the nine-head SOLID PROFILE P 3000, capable of operating at feed speeds of up to 120m/min.
The best-selling model – the SOLID PROFILE P 1500 – is ideally suited to moulding and joinery companies. Exceptionally flexible and available in a wide range of specifications, each machine is built to order to meet individual customer requirements. As a result, the P 1500 has become the go-to machine for forward-thinking businesses looking to improve productivity, increase margins, minimise costs and provide exceptionally fast delivery to their customers.
The flexibility of the Weinig HSK moulder range extends to tooling compatibility. All common tooling systems can be used, provided the recommended operating guidelines are followed. Weinig UK provides expert advice to help customers select the most appropriate tooling solution for each application.
High-volume production of standard MDF profiles is ideally suited to HSK diamond tooling, while bespoke MDF profiles are best produced using double-back HSS/TCT systems. Most hardwood and softwood applications are ideally matched to HSS serrated-back tooling, while specialised profiles such as tongue & groove can be produced using solid profile tooling.
Whatever the application, Weinig offers an appropriate solution. With such a wide variety of tooling systems available, it’s essential that machine specification matches production requirements. Spindle speed plays a critical role in optimising the relationship between tooling, material and feed speed, which is why variable spindle speed is a popular option. Where 12,000rpm is unnecessary, Weinig also offers an 8,000rpm alternative.
With more than 25 years of experience applying HSK technology to woodworking machinery, Weinig has the expertise to recommend the right solution for every application. Practical advice, proven engineering and industry-leading technology combine to ensure customers achieve the maximum return on their investment.
If you’re not already benefiting from the Weinig HSK system, now’s the ideal time to speak with one of the company’s specialists and discover how investing in a Weinig HSK-equipped moulder could improve your productivity and profitability.
For further information on the Weinig product range, contact Weinig UK on 01235 557 600 or email sales.uk@weinig.com.
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