What once began with the manufacture of measuring tools is now home to and the production site of world-renowned brands in knurling technology. Hommel+Keller produces all tool solutions for the zeus and QUICK brands at its own site in Aldingen. With our own test machines and a strong drive for innovation and research, we are continuously developing our product portfolio. This results in tool solutions that allow our customers to always benefit from the latest developments in technology and innovation. Our successes have been recognized, for example, with the “Innovative through Research” seal from the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft e.V. (Donors’ Association for the Promotion of Sciences and Humanities in Germany).
CUT KNURLING
Cut knurling is the milling alternative to form knurling. During feed, material is removed. This technique is especially suitable for thin-walled work pieces, soft materials or difficult to machine materials.
Cut knurling is characterized by very high precision and is suitable for the production of visual profiles, among other things.
This technique produces minimal material waste and the load on the workpiece and the machine is very low.
FORM KNURLING
Knurling involves forming the surface of the workpiece without cutting.
This is a cold forming of the metallic material.
The forming process increases the outer diameter in this method.
A major advantage of this knurling technique is the versatility of the application area.
All profiles as well as end knurls, inner knurls or conical knurls can be produced.
This technique can also be used to knurl right up to the collar
CHOOSE THE APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY
PRECISE SURFACES FOR A SECURE GRIP
Knurling is used to create a functional and visual surface texture on workpieces. There are two types of knurling techniques:
- Form knurling –non-cutting forming by pressure
- Cut knurling – cutting machining by material removal
Both techniques have specific advantages and areas of application. While knurling scores points for its ease of use and high mechanical strength, knurling milling is always the first choice when maximum precision, thin-walled components, or perfect visible knurling are required.
FUNCTIONALITY OF knurling
Knurling involves deliberately texturing the surface of a rotating workpiece using a special knurling tool. Depending on the knurling method, knurling is either carried out by pressure, whereby the profile is embossed into the material (form knurling), or by cutting, whereby the profile is milled out (cut knnurling). Several process parameters are crucial for a uniform knurling pattern, including:
- Rotational speed and feed rate
- Feed force or cutting depth
- Suitable pre-turning diameter for form knurling
- Workpiece diameter matching the knurling pitch
- Use of suitable cutting or cooling lubricants
The precise coordination of these factors results in accurate, functional, and visually high-quality knurling.
Areas of application for knurling
Knurling is used wherever a secure grip, precise operability, and high functionality are required. Typical areas of application for professional knurling are:
- Mechanical and plant engineering (control elements, adjusting screws)
- Toolmaking and crafts (handles, clamping and adjusting elements)
- Medical technology (surgical instruments, precision adjusting elements)
- Precision engineering and optics
- Automotive and supplier industry
- Electrical engineering and electronics
- Consumer goods and design products
- Assembly technology (threaded bushings)
High-quality knurling not only improves grip safety, but also meets visual, ergonomic, and safety requirements.
MINIMAL WEAR. MAXIMUM SPEED
When knurling, the tool can be applied to any point on the workpiece.
We always have the right tool for your application in our portfolio:
- The RD1 series for knurling is highly effective. They can be used for a wide variety of knurling applications and are also easy to operate. All profiles and lettering can be produced. Knurling can also be carried out at any point on the workpiece.
- The tools in the RD2 series are primarily used to produce RGE profiles in the axial machining direction. The knurling width can be selected as required thanks to the longitudinal knurling.
- Our RD3 series for the axial machining of end pieces meets the high customer expectations for stability and precision when machining the smallest diameters. This series is primarily used in the precision engineering industry.
The service life of a knurling wheel determines process reliability and production costs. One of the most important factors for this is maximum precision through the tightest tolerances. For decades, Hommel+Keller has been manufacturing knurling wheels using state-of-the-art technology that ensures the highest precision in concentricity and axial runout.
The result for customers who purchase our knurling wheels: maximum production volumes per knurling wheel, fewer tool changes, and permanently lower unit costs.
