So is in-house tool grinding really that rosy?  The cost comparisons we just reviewed look pretty compelling, but only if you can dedicate someone to the task of running the tool grinder.  And with an annual cost of about $70,000 to run the machine, I would suggest making sure you spend at least $200,000 on those types of tools to justify taking on an activity that isn’t part of your core competency.  Beyond that, let’s review some other issues you need to think about before taking the plunge...

Make sure the CNC tool grinder has the versatility you need.

• Can it do the tools you need?  For example, when they say “drills,” do they really cover all the high performance drills you use?

• Can it do the tools you might need in the future?

• Does it quickly change from one tool to another?  For example, it is easy to set-up new jobs?

Getting effective productivity requires both easy software and ripping hardware.

• How easy is the software to use?  Can you setup the machine offline?

• Does the machine have enough horsepower and coolant if you decide to get into manufacturing at some point?

Easy to use software with 3D simulation makes job setup much quicker.
Setting up offline keeps the machines productive. You can review the grinding process before you actually go to the machine.  New jobs can be setup offline, while the machine is producing tools.

Make sure the machine can manufacture tools, not just regrind.  A lot of people who begin regrinding tools in-house eventually will start to manufacture some.  So when you’re looking for a machine make sure it’s got everything it needs to be able to do that.

Getting good tools also requires rigidity & accuracy. 

Weight does not necessarily indicate rigidity.  Some designs haven’t changed in 20 years.  Some are unproven.
And moving heavy masses causes wear-and it’s slow!

Accuracy of controls & motors is very important for getting good geometry.
And good fixturing is key to getting an accurate tool.

Find out if you’ll be able to share programs with outside regrinders.
It’s possible that the machine you’re looking at is already used by your outside regrinders.  You should definitely take a look at what they’re using to grind their tools, because you may be able to share tool programs with them.  If they manufacture the tools, you can regrind the tools more easily.  You also need to make sure there are operators in your area with the right experience.

Service & support are critical in tool grinding.
Automatic probing and powerful software has made tool grinding much easier, but it’s still a specialized niche. It’s especially important to get good support if you’re NOT a dedicated tool grinder, because it’s not your core competency.

Please make sure you can get good training, you get good help with the application, and you can get service.  Examples used earlier in this presentation assume the machine is available approximately 85% of the time.