Formteknik Värnamo, based in Sweden, is known for producing high-pressure die casting tools and related components. The company also provides contract manufacturing for large components. To meet the demanding standards of precision and efficiency in production, Formteknik Värnamo partnered with Grob, a manufacturer of versatile and powerful machines.
The initial collaboration between Formteknik Värnamo and Grob began in 2022. The company aimed to optimize its machining processes, focusing on completing parts in a single operation to reduce setup times and machining steps. Additionally, there was a need to improve chip management for efficient, unmanned production.
After an in-depth analysis, Formteknik Värnamo chose the Grob G550 universal machining center within three months. The G550 provided the perfect balance of high precision, flexibility, and reliability. Following the successful installation of the G550, the company purchased a second Grob machine, the G750, to accommodate increased demand and produce larger tools.
Dennis Martinsson, one of Formteknik Värnamo’s owners, highlighted the benefits of these machines: “We now have a solution to produce parts in a single operation. The training and service are excellent, and we can leave the machines running without supervision.”
With the new machines, Formteknik Värnamo significantly improved its production processes. Machining times were reduced from 50-60 hours to just 2-3 hours. Elvir Sijaric, also an owner, shared, “We’ve doubled our capacity and drastically cut machining time. What used to take 40 hours to drill holes now takes just 20 minutes.” This efficiency boost has allowed the company to increase production capacity, improve utilization, and enhance competitiveness.
High Dynamics and Stability
The Grob G550 and G750 machines offer flexibility for both series and small series production. They are known for their high dynamics, stability, and fast chip-to-chip times. One key advantage is the design of the machines: horizontal spindles that allow chips to fall directly downward. This design enables the machines to run without constant supervision, making them ideal for unmanned operations. The G750 also allows the company to produce larger tools and quickly adapt to new customer demands.
In addition to the quality of the machines, Formteknik Värnamo values Grob’s top-notch customer service. Fast response times for machine servicing are a major benefit. Martinsson recalled, “After a spindle crash, we were back in production within just five days. The training courses were also excellent, helping us get the most out of the machines.”
Close Cooperation with Sales Agent
A key factor in the success of this project was the close collaboration with Grob’s sales agent, Johan Nordström. Nordström provided valuable support throughout the process, ensuring the smooth integration of the machines and helping Formteknik Värnamo maximize the potential of the new technology.
Magnus Friedland from Johan Nordström added, “It’s exciting to see small companies grow with new machines and technology. The customers are well cared for, and it’s gratifying to see the machines perform so well.”
Future Plans and Success
Although Formteknik Värnamo doesn’t plan to purchase additional machines at the moment, the company is confident that if another machine is needed, it will choose another Grob. Sijaric concluded, “We would recommend Grob anytime. The machines are reliable, efficient, and suitable for companies of all sizes. Our collaboration with Grob and Nordström has elevated our production to a new level.”
In conclusion, the investment in the Grob G550 and G750 machines has been a major success for Formteknik Värnamo. The company has significantly boosted efficiency and production capacity, while also enhancing production quality. This success demonstrates that Grob’s solutions not only benefit large OEMs but also provide small and medium-sized companies with the right products and advantages.
