How do you ensure this quality is maintained over extended production periods?
We have developed a highly stable material removal technology that operates reliably over months—without the need for warm-up programs or diameter and length corrections. An integrated compensation measurement references each tool within seconds. This means that even during continuous operation, the machining quality remains consistently at the highest level. Our extensive testing has proven this.
Precision is the basis of quality
With the VLaser 370, VOLLMER has developed a machine that puts precision above all else. In this interview, Product Manager Christopher Lang discusses how they consistently ensure quality at the micrometer level and why the VLaser 370 sets new standards in tool machining.
The VLaser 370 is a laser machine that processes tools made from ultra-hard cutting materials. What makes it so special in terms of precision?
The core of our machine is the innovative kinematics. All five axes are arranged so that the processing point always lies at the pivot of the C-axis. This ensures that the laser beam’s focus is always precisely in the center, without the need for large compensating movements. As a result, it delivers exceptionally high path accuracy and stable process control—whether working on straight profiles or complex contours.
What specific advantages does this kinematics provide for the quality of the cutting edge?
By minimizing axis movements, the machining process remains extremely stable. Long travel distances and large compensating movements, commonly seen in other laser machines, are avoided. This results in clean, precisely defined cutting edges with minimal tolerances. Even with rising or falling contours, the highest level of precision is achieved. Users benefit from tools being manufactured with consistent, reproducible quality throughout the entire production process.
Could you provide an example where this level of precision is particularly critical?
Take complex tools such as thread mills or circular cutters, for example. These require closed contours and very small radii. With the VLaser 370, we can reliably process radii as small as 20 micrometers—without any additional pre-processing steps. This level of precision gives our customers a real competitive advantage, as their tools offer longer service life and better cutting quality in use.
The VLaser 370 is the machine that processes tools with micrometer precision – ensuring this quality consistently and reproducibly.
The VLaser 370’s ability to operate continuously for months without corrections or cleaning is also due to the machine’s optimized extraction system. This allows vaporized microparticles to be efficiently removed, preventing contamination of the protective glass in front of the palm-sized lens.
What role does the machine design play?
A central role. The laser source and the beam guidance housing are rigidly connected to the polymer concrete block. This eliminates the effects of vibrations or machine movements. This stable foundation is the key to ensuring the laser beam acts precisely where it is intended. For us, precision is not a byproduct but the result of a deliberately robust design.
Yes, the VLaser 370 also excels in terms of speed, doesn’t it?
For the Asian market in particular, our VLaser 370 stands out by performing sharpening processes with very high speed and precision. Comparative tests with laser machines from our competitors in Asia have shown that we can, for example, process simple and straight tool profiles twice as fast — and for complex profiles, the complete manufacturing of the tool is up to 12 to 14 times faster.
In a single sentence, how would you describe the VLaser 370 in terms of precision and quality?
The VLaser 370 is the machine that processes tools with micrometer-level precision — consistently ensuring this quality in a durable and reproducible way.
How can interested parties verify this independently?
Interested parties from all sectors can test the VLaser 370 at VOLLMER in Biberach by carrying out trial machining on tools. In addition, we offer cost-effective leasing options that allow customers to test the laser machine over extended periods and integrate it into their own production.
