Production is the key factor in tool manufacturing. The challenge is obtaining high production rates without sacrificing tool quality. Traditionally this has left manufacturers with one of two choices; produce tools complete in one machine or use a grinding cell concept. Producing tools complete, in a single machine, helps to ensure tool quality by eliminating multiple clampings, but results in longer cycle times. The only way to shorten these cycle times is to increase feedrates; often resulting in undesirable surface finishes.

The RTG Multi Station Grinder was built with these limitations in mind. This machine concept combines the production rate benefits of a cell grinding operation with the quality benefits of producing a complete Tool (Drills, Endmills or similar Tools) in one clamping. The machine consists of three separate stations: Two grinding stations and a loading station. A vertical column mounted through the middle of the machine base is equipped with an Index table featuring three collet workheads that are mounted vertically, with the collet facing downward.