KELCH launches smart measuring gauge for HSK tool tapers

Networking to Industry 4.0 standards

Weinstadt, 21 April 2021 – Companies need to carry out comparative measurements of their HSK tool holders and HSK spindles at regular intervals to obtain optimum production results. Digitalised production processes can then bring to light new requirements. KELCH GmbH, the system supplier of components and services for the machining industry, has therefore added a smart HSK measuring gauge to its range, which can be conveniently connected to a PC or laptop. The software combines all the requisite steps: visualisation, the measuring process, the saving and output of data, and efficient networking to Industry 4.0 standards.

The smart HSK measuring gauge does not require any additional measuring columns, but can be connected by USB to any PC or laptop in any measuring environment to save space. The portable system permits fast measurement with pre-configured programs for all HSK sizes. This innovation obviates the need to program each individual size, as was required in the previous versions and also enables the required programs to be saved. This also eliminates the need for users to read off from the measurement scale and manually note the values, a process that was often prone to errors. The features of the smart HSK gauge include the simple change of gauges for different HSK taper sizes by plug and play and the one-click selection of the appropriate measuring program. The data collected can be immediately saved, logged and made available to all interested parties. The new development therefore fulfils the most important prerequisite for successful digital processes in production: integration into an efficient information and data flow. No special preparations are needed to use the smart HSK gauge. As all the measuring programs are pre-installed, users only need to connect them up and can start the application immediately.

Positioned in the Industry 4.0 product range

Kelch is once again bringing its long-standing expertise in production-related measuring and test equipment into digitalised processes with its smart HSK measuring gauge. Alongside its traditional measuring and test equipment, the SafeControl 4.0 digital measuring system has also been part of the production range for some time: a development designed to check the pull force of machine spindles. A further range, Kelch Smart Factory solutions, supports networked processes with a high degree of customisability.

The specific special solutions that Kelch is developing together with MySolutions AG deliver comprehensive complete solutions to Industry 4.0 standards. The focus here is on internal operational logistics and warehousing processes. Together with Teamviewer and Vodafone, KELCH IoT (Internet of Things) offers cloud-based process control and status monitoring to prevent impending system outages and costly production downtime. The smart HSK measuring gauge is thus another building block for machining companies wishing to successfully network their processes.