Research Meets Application: That Was Our “Grinding Innovation Day” 2026!
The demands placed on modern grinding processes are constantly increasing: Maximum precision, economic flexibility, and advancing digitalization are challenging machinists worldwide. On June 26, 2026, we had the opportunity to demonstrate practical solutions to these challenges at our most recent “Grinding Innovation Day” at our Homberg (Ohm) location. We also used this high-profile technology event to mark a historic milestone: Under the proud motto “70 Years of ‘Made in Homberg (Ohm)’,” we celebrated together the deep-rooted tradition of grinding machine manufacturing at our facility.
Instead of a traditional lecture-style presentation, we opted for a dynamic open-space concept. In the heart of our factory halls, we focused on fostering direct, authentic dialogue between users, machine developers, and suppliers. Our visitors took full advantage of the setting to discuss current challenges from everyday manufacturing directly at the exhibits on display.
Leveraging Synergies: A Strong Partner Ecosystem
Our practical program of presentations and exhibits reflected the fact that modern progress can only be achieved through collaboration. We deliberately ceded the stage to our technology partners to provide our trade visitors with a comprehensive update on the entire grinding process chain.
The range of solutions presented was extensive:
Detlev Hofmann GmbH: Demonstrated the efficient use of workpiece holders and rotary axes in grinding machines in a practical setting and highlighted mechanical components, integration solutions, and precision applications.
Günter Effgen GmbH: Using Lapport HPG grinding wheels in practical applications, the company demonstrated how conventional abrasives can be combined with high-hardness abrasives in the context of high-performance grinding.
Polo Filter-Technik Bremen GmbH: Presented forward-looking concepts for efficient coolant filtration and the cost-effective treatment of contaminated coolants in production facilities.
Hengst Air Filtration Germany GmbH: Focused on the important topics of emissions control and occupational safety, presenting modern extraction concepts for the effective control of coolant aerosols directly at the workplace.
Heinz Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG: Under the title “Secret Stars,” the company focused on the latest trends in coolant pumps, particularly with regard to flow optimization and energy efficiency.
This high-caliber lineup in our factory hall was complemented by other renowned industry players: The companies CHRIST-Feinmechanik GmbH & Co. KG, SMW-Autoblock Spannsysteme GmbH, DR. KAISER DIAMANTWERKZEUGE GmbH & Co. KG, and Hofmann Mess- und Auswuchttechnik GmbH & Co. KG enriched our trade exhibition as active partners and were available to participants for in-depth technical discussions.
A Bridge from Cutting-Edge Research to Hall 4.0
Academic research provided the theoretical foundation: The Institute for Machining (ISF) at TU Dortmund University presented the latest findings in grinding technology and highlighted the areas where science is currently focusing its efforts to ensure the surface qualities of the future.
Participants learned how this future will be digitally connected by exploring the topic of connectivity. The VDW (Association of German Machine Tool Manufacturers) introduced the cross-manufacturer interface initiative “umati” (based on OPC UA). The presentation clearly explained how easily and transparently modern grinding machines can be integrated into existing MES and IT infrastructures, and what specific advantages standardized data streams offer for improving efficiency and condition monitoring.
“Grinding technology is changing rapidly. As we mark this 70-year milestone at our location, it was important to us not only to look back, but also to provide our customers with our collective experience and practical tools for the challenges of tomorrow. The depth of the technical discussions showed us that this application-oriented exchange strikes a chord with the industry.”
—Felipe Levin, Managing Director