Okamoto Machine Tool Europe GmbH, a leading manufacturer of grinding machines based in Germany, recently held its two-day event called Grinding Days 2025. The event offered trade visitors an exclusive look into the future of high-precision machining. It included live demonstrations and expert lectures.
Atsushi Kobayashi, managing director of Okamoto, welcomed visitors on both days. The first day’s sessions were in English, while the second day’s were in German. He introduced a program that combined top-level lectures with live demonstrations of the latest Okamoto grinding technology. These technologies suit a wide range of applications.
Thomas Loscher, Okamoto’s technical manager, explained the challenges the company faces in today’s market. He said, “Okamoto aims to help its business partners achieve sustainable and profitable high-precision production using modern grinding technology.” He added that one major challenge is maintaining efficient production during a shortage of skilled workers. To address this, Okamoto offers automation solutions developed in-house and with partners. Another key solution is the intelligent control system called ‘iQ.’ This system allows even unskilled workers to program complex grinding tasks easily.
One example is the PRG series of rotary table surface grinding machines, now equipped with the ‘iQ’ system. These machines enable manufacturers in various industries to achieve very precise flatness down to the micron level quickly and economically.
The PRG machines are designed as gantry-type rotary table grinders. They are used for single-sided machining of components such as rings, ball bearings, and other parts requiring high surface quality. The round magnetic clamping table rotates the workpiece, while the grinding tool moves sideways or across the surface. Depending on the grinding program, the machine can operate with varying table speeds and maintain a constant cutting speed of the grinding tool.
Thanks to the ‘iQ’ control system, users can adjust grinding positions at any time using a teach-in function on a touch screen. The system guides the user through the process with dialogue prompts, even while the machine is running. This makes programming complex grinding tasks easier and reduces the need for deep technical knowledge. As a result, training and programming time is shorter, and many processes are automated.
Another highlight is the Okamoto IGM 15 NCIII-2B Boxer type internal grinder. This high-performance machine is robust and features two spindles that move independently. It comes with software supporting a 10-stage grinding program and enables cone and contour grinding with two-axis parallel control. The Boxer spindle assembly is designed for fast, easy adjustments without concerns about spindle or workpiece collisions.
The event also featured exhibits from other premium technology suppliers and partners. Among them were NORITAKE grinding wheels, SAV clamping solutions, MST Cooperation, and WBA Aachen tooling.
Mr. Kobayashi emphasized the growing demand for high-performance grinding solutions. He said, “Speed, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and efficiency are crucial factors that no component manufacturer can compromise on.” He added that Okamoto continuously improves its products to meet future demands.
“Grinding Days was a great success,” Kobayashi said. “We showed that Okamoto is an innovative grinding machine maker and a modern service provider with high service quality.”
Okamoto plans to showcase its technologies next at EMO 2025, scheduled for September 22-26 in Hanover.
