What does the name LHOpenConnect stand for? How can an open data structure help the user? Which software services does Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH offer? Over the past few years, the company has gradually built up an application architecture that focuses not only on the machine, but on the entire process, which means it can support production in many different ways. Thanks to its modular structure, customers can select the tools which best complement their own specific production environment.

A visit to the HMC Gears plant in Indiana kicked off an extensive project which resulted in the creation of a unique solution for exceptional demands: With the LC 4000, Liebherr forges new paths in large-scale gear cutting production and unites diverse machining methods in one highly efficient machine for the American gear specialist.

How can we ensure maximum manufacturing productivity? What is the best automation system for our wide variety of parts? Which partner can reliably put our plans and requirements into practice? These are the kinds of questions that every manufacturing company aiming to increase its productivity has to ask. Kordel Antriebstechnik GmbH, based in the Westphalian town of Dülmen, found the right solution for its gearbox production with a pallet handling system from Liebherr.

In August 2019, trainees Fabian Altenried and Julia Fetzer participated in the Liebherr Summer Program at Liebherr Gear Technology Inc. / Liebherr Automation Systems Co. (LGT / LAU) in Saline, near Detroit. There, they ran the PLC programming course for pupils of the robotics course from the local high school, which was offered for the first time, and got to know the work routine at the Liebherr site. Fabian reports on his experience here:

The machining of gears with interfering contours for the aerospace industry places the highest demands on the grinding tool and often cannot be carried out with standard grinding heads due to the small tool diameters. Liebherr has developed an auxiliary spindle for these applications which can be retrofitted. This enables the production of challenging aerospace components on existing LGG gear grinding machines.

When founding the Industrial Services for Gear Technology and Automation Systems department in 2018, Liebherr already began rolling out the topic of services again from a user perspective. By now, customers can choose the service that fits their individual requirements from a total of five different service packages.

Liebherr in the United States is proud to celebrate five decades in North America and establish itself as a leading manufacturer. Liebherr has built its U.S. business on a foundation of trust, innovation and engagement with customers. Five decades later, Liebherr’s growth, diversity and stability are evidence of how the company is united by success with customers as they work on the challenges of tomorrow and focus on the future together.

Gear skiving is over 100 years old and has recently been experiencing a renaissance as a flexible and economical alternative to other gear cutting methods. However, this complex process frequently presents great challenges to users. In addition to Skiving3, a “complete package” consisting of machine, tool and technology, Liebherr now also offers skiving tools for suppliers and contract gear manufacturers – and the appropriate consultation, if desired.