ANCA Launches Performance+ Productivity Program for Cutting Tool Manufacturers
ANCA has introduced Performance+, a new productivity-focused program aimed at helping cutting tool manufacturers improve grinding efficiency and reduce production cycle times amid rising operating costs and increasing market pressure.
The company says the premium consultancy-based program is designed to help manufacturers achieve measurable productivity gains through a combination of software optimization, process improvements, hardware enhancements and operator training. ANCA states that customers who follow the program’s recommendations are guaranteed a minimum 10% reduction in cycle time, with some applications demonstrating significantly higher improvements.
Addressing Productivity Challenges in Tool Manufacturing
The launch comes at a time when cutting tool manufacturers continue to face higher raw material costs, tighter delivery schedules and increased global competition. According to ANCA, improving machine efficiency and maximizing throughput have become critical priorities for many manufacturers, particularly as carbide costs continue to rise.
Performance+ begins with an evaluation of a manufacturer’s grinding operations, including machine setup, cycle time performance and production goals. ANCA experts then provide recommendations designed to improve efficiency and optimize grinding processes while maintaining or improving tool quality.
The program also includes implementation support and application training intended to help operators integrate best practices into daily production.
Focus on Grinding Process Optimization
ANCA says the program targets several areas that can affect productivity across the grinding process, including:
- Grinding software optimization
- Machine performance behavior
- Consumables and wheel strategies
- Coolant management
- Process refinement
- Operator techniques and training
The company noted that Performance+ builds on several of its existing technologies, including ToolRoom RN35 optimization software, Motor Temperature Control (MTC), Grind Point Velocity and Tool Runout Compensation.
Rather than using a standardized package, the program is configured around each manufacturer’s production priorities and focuses on the three most critical tool types in a customer’s operation.
Reported Productivity Improvements
According to ANCA, manufacturers participating in Performance+ have reported productivity gains ranging from 10% to as high as 35%, depending on the software, wheel configurations and process refinements implemented.
The company shared several example results based on a production schedule of 16-hour shifts operating five days per week, including:
- Between 123 and 659 additional tools produced per month
- Monthly time savings ranging from 30 to 80 hours
- Estimated monthly production value increases of AUD $3,000 to AUD $8,000 per machine
ANCA says these improvements are intended to help manufacturers increase output using existing equipment and production footprints, potentially improving return on equipment investments without sacrificing tool quality.
Growing Demand for Manufacturing Efficiency
As manufacturers continue looking for ways to offset higher production costs and maximize machine utilization, productivity-focused optimization programs are becoming an increasingly important part of advanced manufacturing operations.
ANCA says manufacturers interested in the program can request an evaluation to determine eligibility and estimate potential savings based on their current production volumes, cycle times and tooling requirements.
