Indraneel Bhattacharya, Vice President-Sales & Marketing, Machine Tool Division, Lakshmi Machine Works Ltd.
“One of the noteworthy advancements in CNC technology is high-speed machining which involves significantly increasing cutting speeds and feed rates while maintaining precision. This is made possible through improved machine dynamics, more robust tooling, and advanced control algorithms. The result is reduced cycle times and improved surface finish, making it a game-changer in industries where time and precision are critical,” reveals Indraneel Bhattacharya, Vice President-Sales & Marketing, Machine Tool Division, Lakshmi Machine Works Ltd.
The winner of Engineering Excellence Awards for Quality & Innovation, LMW has emerged as a phoenix in the realm of machine tools, offering a whopping 55 models and 88 variants of world-class job-rated, precision-engineered CNC machines which are at the cutting-edge of metalworking technology and production engineering. Machine Tools World converses with Indraneel Bhattacharya to assimilate first-hand the innovative spirit and passion for excellence of this machine tool major, who has been offering bespoke solutions to its discerning customers grappled with productivity goals and quality benchmarks in high-tech manufacturing in core sectors. Excerpts:
Firstly, continued support from the government through policies promoting manufacturing, such as the “Make in India” initiative, can provide a conducive environment for the machine tool industry.
Secondly, Investing in research and development to adopt advanced technologies like automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence can enhance productivity and efficiency in the machine tool industry. This can lead to the development of more sophisticated and precise machines, catering to diverse manufacturing needs. Apart from the above, focusing on skill development, infrastructure development and integration of global trends and best practices can help to take a quantum leap in the coming times.
At LMW, we are investing in research and development for developing cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that cater to evolving industry requirements, thereby staying ahead of the competition. We aim to concentrate our market presence in regions that have yet to be capitalized on. We are maintaining agility and adaptability in our operations, enabling us to swiftly respond to changing market dynamics and customer preferences. This ensures that we remain relevant and competitive in the rapidly evolving machine tool industry.
High-Speed Machining: One of the noteworthy advancements in CNC technology is high-speed machining. High-Speed Machining involves significantly increasing cutting speeds and feed rates while maintaining precision. This technology is made possible through improved machine dynamics, more robust tooling, and advanced control algorithms. The result is reduced cycle times and improved surface finish, making it a game-changer in industries where time and precision are critical.
Multi-Axis Machining: Modern CNC machines now offer multi-axis capabilities, enabling intricate and complex machining tasks. Traditional 3-axis machines are being complemented or replaced by multi-tasking machines up to 6 axes. Multi-axis machining allows for the production of highly intricate components in a single setup, reducing error margins and streamlining manufacturing processes. Industries like medical device, aerospace components manufacturing and precision engineering have seen significant benefits from this advancement.
IoT Integration: The integration of CNC machines with the Internet of Things (IoT) has brought about a significant shift in the manufacturing landscape. Real-time monitoring and data analysis enable predictive maintenance, reducing machine downtime and optimizing tool life. This technology has benefits across various industries, from automotive to electronics manufacturing, where downtime can be costly. At LMW, all our machines are IoT ready.
Automation & Customized solutions: Automation and customized solutions have revolutionized CNC machines, offering significant advantages in efficiency, precision, and adaptability. We provide automation solutions such as simple loaders, Gantry systems, and Robots that are tailored to meet the customer requirements. Customized solutions cater to the diverse needs of manufacturers across industries. We provide integrated solutions for various industrial needs in Automobile, Aerospace, Die & Mould, Defence, Pumps & Valves, Railways, Medical Equipment, Forging, General Engineering, etc.
Understanding our customers’ evolving needs is paramount. We actively engage with customers through feedback channels, market research, and direct communication to tailor our products and services to their requirements. We prioritize continuous innovation in our product offerings. This involves staying ahead of technological advancements, integrating new features, and improving efficiency in our CNC machines. We maintain flexibility in our production processes to adapt quickly to changing market demands. This includes agile manufacturing practices, such as lean manufacturing principles that enable us to efficiently adjust production volumes and product configurations. We mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations by diversifying our customer base and expanding into new geographic regions or industry sectors where there’s growth potential for us. We leverage digital technologies such as IoT, data analytics, and automation to enhance the performance, reliability, and connectivity of our CNC machines. This not only improves operational efficiency but also enables us to offer value-added services such as predictive maintenance and remote monitoring. We have invested heavily in digitalization in various areas to ensure uncompromised quality, high efficiency and quick deliveries. As an example, the entire marketing operations from lead to installation and post installation are digitalized and ensures a seamless connect to customers.
LMW is the first machine tool manufacturer to offers online (e-commerce) sales of spares. The entire service operation is digital or simply paperless.
We recognize the diverse needs of our customers across various industries; we prioritize offering customizable solutions tailored to specific requirements. Whether it’s complex machining tasks or unique production challenges, our CNC machines can be configured and optimized to deliver optimal performance, ensuring maximum efficiency and adaptability on the shop floor. We place great emphasis on user experience and ergonomics in the design of our CNC machines. Intuitive interfaces, streamlined workflows, and comprehensive training and support services empower operators to harness the full potential of our equipment with minimal downtime and training overhead, ultimately enhancing overall operational efficiency and reducing costs.
In alignment with global sustainability goals, we are committed to developing environmentally friendly manufacturing solutions. By optimizing energy consumption, reducing waste generation, and implementing eco-friendly materials and processes, we strive to minimize the ecological footprint of our CNC machines while simultaneously enhancing long-term sustainability for our customers and the planet. We commit ourselves to continually integrating the latest advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, and IoT into our CNC machines. By doing so, we enable our customers to achieve unprecedented levels of productivity, accuracy, and reliability in their manufacturing processes.
Our diverse product offerings cater to various industries. For the high productivity demands of auto components, Pump and bearing industries, we provide twin spindle twin turret (LF Series) Turning Center with integrated automation. Meeting high-speed requirements are our JG & JD Series High speed compact Machining centers up to 24,000 rpm. Precision turning operations in industries like Fittings are addressed by our Smart Minimaster, compact turning center. HMCs are tailored to meet the specific needs of the Automobile, Pump & Valve and Aerospace industries, while our LTV series- Large Vertical Turning Centers target the requirements of the Oil & Gas, Aerospace and Valve industries.
We offer a range of customizable machines designed to suit the diverse requirements of various industries. Whether it is precision machining, high volume production, or automation solutions, we work closely with our customers to understand their specific production needs and deliver machines that enhance efficiency and productivity. Our dedicated application engineering team serves as a valuable resource by offering specialized knowledge and expertise to optimize the performance of our machines in their specific applications. From initial consultation to post-installation support, our application engineers work closely with customers to understand their unique production requirements and recommend the most suitable solutions. Whether it’s fine-tuning machine parameters for optimal efficiency, developing custom tooling solutions, or providing process optimization recommendations, our application engineering team ensures that customers derive maximum value from our machines, enabling them to achieve better quality, and greater competitiveness in their respective markets.
We conduct comprehensive training programs to ensure that our customers can make the most of our machines. Our team of experts offers hands-on training sessions covering machine operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Additionally, we offer ongoing support services to address any technical issues and ensure minimal downtime for our clients.
The machine tool division has the total own capability to design and manufacture world- class CNC turning, turnmill and machining centers. The high precision mother machines coupled with skilled people produce high quality products. We have made substantial investments in manufacturing facilities, which brings technological competence that address the global market. All the assembly lines are dust-free and temperature controlled to ensure maximum accuracy.
Quality is embedded in the DNA of LMW. It is reflected in every element of the production procedures and services. The calibration of linear and rotary axis, and spindle check inspection are followed to ensure that our products are precision engineered and are of high quality. We incorporate cutting-edge technologies for testing and validation.
At LMW, we have Total Quality Management, where we emphasize the culture of continuous improvement. Kaizens, inter-department and intra-department projects are reviewed regularly to enhance the products, processes and services to provide better quality and efficiency.
In order to meet the requirements of sectors such as Die-mould, Oil & Gas, and Valves, we focus on heavy-duty machines with larger turning diameter and turning length. Additionally, we emphasize the development of multi-axis machines to cater to the needs of industries like Aerospace, thus enhancing our market presence in these sectors.
Export markets present significant growth opportunities for us. We are intensifying our efforts to penetrate international markets by participating in trade shows, leveraging government initiatives to promote exports, and customizing our offerings to suit the preferences and regulations of target countries.
Manufacturing facility – Shop floor
As customer centric approach is one of our core values, we design and create our machines to meet every expectation of the customer. By closely listening to customer feedback and market trends, we develop tailored solutions that address specific pain points and deliver maximum value to our customers. We continuously explore and integrate cutting-edge technologies into our products. These technologies enhance the performance, precision, and efficiency of our machines, leading to better outcomes for our customers. Our R&D efforts focus on optimizing the efficiency of our manufacturing processes and equipment. By streamlining operations and reducing waste, we can offer cost-effective solutions to our customers while minimizing our environmental footprint. Our R & D also works on ease of operations, affordability, and all machines are ergonomically designed and automation-friendly.
As a machine tool manufacturer, we are constantly evaluating market demands and technological advancements to ensure that we remain at the forefront of innovation.
Modern manufacturing is moving towards productivity, customization and reducing the downtime of machines in the manufacturing industry. A few trending examples are as follow as;
Smart screens: The integration of smart screens in our machines enables the visualization of productivity and maintenance data, facilitating a clear understanding of machine performance and aiding in predictive maintenance efforts.
Plug & play robot/ automation: Seamless plug-and-play integration of robotics or automation into CNC machines simplifies the setup process, eliminating the need for complex configurations and facilitating swift implementation.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning are finding their way into CNC technology. These capabilities allow machines to learn and optimize their own processes. CNC machines can adapt and fine-tune themselves based on historical data, leading to enhanced efficiency and precision. Industries ranging from aerospace to medical manufacturing leverage AI-driven CNC technology for greater automation and quality control.
Customization and Flexible Manufacturing: The era of mass production is gracefully giving way to the age of customization and flexible manufacturing. Through innovative approaches and the integration of digital technologies, we have become adept at tailoring the production lines to accommodate a diverse range of products. The utilization of flexible machining systems and digital technologies enables the swift adaptation of production processes to meet specific market demands, thereby ensuring a distinct competitive edge in a variety of markets.
Indian manufacturing industry is set to witness growth in segments such as Electronics, Consumer Durables, Agriculture & Precision Manufacturing, along with Medical Devices, Die & Mould, and Aerospace. Our focus is on developing innovative products and solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of these industries.
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