At the IMTEX stall, LMT India had tooled up its tools on a DMG MORI machine to showcase its die and mould applications and depicted components that can be produced.
Die and mould making requires high performance tools. They have to machine hardened steel and cast types at enormous cutting speeds and with maximum dimensional accuracy. With roughing and finishing of complex components, in particular, machining tools soon reach their limits. The CopyMax 2 indexable insert features a new design by LMT Kieninger and guarantees top performance in mould and die making. Apart from improved cutting and material properties, the copy milling plate has a fully functional second cutting edge. When the first cutting edge is worn down, the second cutting edge can be turned over and used with the same service life.
Venkatasubramanian said that more Indian consumers are now looking for technology and while there are local manufacturers in India, the idea of a 100-year company offering a robust technology will be good for Indian manufacturers. He added that the company has four manufacturing facilities in Europe and the US together and each country has its own R&D, with a centralised one in Hamburg, Germany.
Reddy said that consumers no longer consider price as the sole factor to make a buying decision. Operational efficiency and adoption of technology are important. “Adoption of technology must commensurate with faster production. Faster productivity in turn brings down the cost per component,” he added. There are a large number of SMEs in India and most of them remain SMEs because they have not invested in technology. Technology will help them scale up their operations.
Joshi said that LMT Tools helps its customers to prolong the life of tools by providing good quality substrate material, advanced and wear resistant coating. A strong service network and a sophisticated service centre for hobs helps the company’s case. It works in close alliance with Balzers who offer the coating suggestions.
Venkatasubramanian said that if one speaks of the top five manufacturing companies, then by and large Indian companies need to absorb more technology, especially in manufacturing. Currently, only China and India are the markets that show good prospects in manufacturing.
Speaking of how there is a tendency among Indian companies to refurbish old CNC machines, Venkatasubramanian said that investing in new technologies calls for investing in new machines. Refurbishing will only change a few technical parts or electronics.