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Specialized Grinder and Software Speeds Part Production F inding new ways to perform processes in a shop is necessary to run a successful business. If one partic- ular process is time consuming, it's always a smart business decision to look into other options. Crowley Tool Co. (Hendersonville, Tennessee) did that with its grinding process since its setup times on its grinding machine were slow. Once the company implemented a new grinder, it not only saved time during setup, but it improved machine uptime and eliminated the need to purchase additional simulation software. e story starts at the Precision Machine Technology Show (PMTS) in Columbus, Ohio, about 10 years ago, when company president Ed Crowley saw a Schütte grinder that had many features he knew would make a difference for the company's operation. But because of budget limitations at that time, Mr. Crowley was not able Edited by Lori Beckman to purchase a new machine. However, he heard from one of the sales and support specialists at Schütte that a used 325linear grinder was available, so the company bought it. After some training and familiarization with the machine, Crowley's Eddie Boland, an experienced machinist, was pleased with the service from Schütte as well as the machine's performance. "When we had any issues with the mechanical side of the machine, a Schütte specialist was there to help," he says. "Likewise, when software questions arose, Scott Topa, Schütte software and programming specialist, was there with the answers. ey were able to resolve everything for us, and that kept us productive. e machine made a difference in our grinding operations almost immediately." Crowley Tool specializes in the design and manufacture of custom insertable form tools for multi- and single-spindle screw machines. For OD work, the company produces a line of quick-change form and shave tooling systems in dovetail, circular, flat form and modular configurations. For ID work, it manufactures either HSS, solid carbide or insertable CASE IN POINT 40 PRODUCTION MACHINING :: NOVEMBER 2016 :: ABOVE: This cylindrical grinding system features extended x-y paths plus two auxiliary slides.