Gear technology and automation systems

Evotion 2025 | Customer Magazine

  • Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH has expanded and increased the adaptability of its production of sophisticated machined parts for Airbus Aerostructures with an intelligent automation concept. At the Varel site in northern Germany, two pallet handling systems (PHS), a robot cell and a tool handling system (THS) work together seamlessly to supply three machining centers and other connected system components with the parts they need at all times.

  • In the new version of its bin picking software LHRobotics.Vision, Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH relies on artificial intelligence (AI). By filtering irrelevant image data, it detects disordered workpieces faster and more accurately when removing them from the container.

  • Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH is continuing the systematic development of its platform strategy with the redesign of its machine platform for workpieces up to two metres in diameter. The new series encompasses all relevant gear technologies and is aimed at manufacturers of large gears, particularly in the mechanical engineering, marine propulsion, construction machinery and wind power industries. The lineup begins with hobbing and profile grinding machines designed for this size range – making it possible, for the first time, to perform precision hard machining on large workpieces.

  • Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH have revised and further developed their rotary loading system (RLS) for automated and order-specific machine loading. Offering an additional load category for transportation weights up to 2,000 kilograms, greater storage density and wider interference diameters, the automation specialist is able to meet current manufacturing requirements. The new version will be presented at EMO 2025 in Hanover (Germany).

Tools for inline process monitoring and condition monitoring

LHProcessMonitoring and LHFingerprint now even better

The LHProcessMonitoring software monitors and visualizes the manufacturing process. Initially designed for generating grinding and dressing, it now also supports profile grinding and gear skiving. The “digital fingerprint” for machine monitoring was previously available as part of a maintenance contract. Now customers can perform the measurements themselves using the LHFingerprint software.

Bundled machine portfolio for maximized customer benefits

Optimized processes, tried-and-tested quality

Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH is restructuring its gear cutting machine portfolio along two lines: Series machines for economical, fast solutions with proven technology – and regulation machines for individual requirements. Both approaches share a common goal: to maximize customer benefit while maintaining consistently high quality.

Gear expertise and a customer focus

Gear Seminar in Brazil

In November 2024 Liebherr Brasil LTDA held one of its renowned Gear Seminars on gear technology in Guaratinguetá, Brazil. Industry experts were in the spotlight as their presentations focused on grinding, soft machining and measuring technologies. The program provided the wide range of participants with well-grounded technical knowledge and practical know-how, and showcased the expertise and services available at the Brazilian site. The accompanying program offered space for knowledge sharing and direct networking.

Ilmberger expands its production with the LC 400 M gear hobbing machine

Powerful machine, powerful partners

Ilmberger Maschinen- und Zahnradfabrik GmbH has boosted its capacity for manufacturing cylindrical gears up to 400 millimeters in diameter by investing in the Liebherr LC 400 M gear hobbing machine. This efficient, compact, and adaptable solution perfectly aligns with the company‘s long-term customer commitments. And they were impressed not only by the technology, but also by Liebherr’s communication and service across the board.

Liebherr apprentices show their commitment to the Allgäu protective forest

6,000 trees for a training that prioritizes sustainability

Sustainability has long played an important role at Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH – and that is also true for the training program. Since 2011, trainees have been working with the Kempten Office for Food, Agriculture, and Forestry to support the reforestation of the protective forest in the Allgäu region. Head of Training Matthias Fendt and trainees Felix Martin and Lukas Mittermayer report on last year‘s campaign.

Pallet handling system from Kordel Antriebstechnik GmbH successfully relocated to new site

Pallet handling system from Kordel Antriebstechnik GmbH successfully relocated to new site

In 2024, Dülmen-based gear manufacturer Kordel Antriebstechnik GmbH managed to relocate its PHS 1500 Pro pallet handling system to a new location in record time while continuing production. Thanks to careful planning and efficient support from Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH, the complex system was relocated in just six months with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

Market and product distribution in Mexico

A strong local presence

In April 2024, Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH opened a branch in Mexico. The Querétaro site specializes in the sale and servicing of gear cutting machines and tools, measuring technology, and automation systems. Branch Manager Miguel Cisneros serves customers nationwide. He is supported in this role by Felix Scholz, General Manager of Liebherr Gear and Automation Technologies, Inc. in Saline, Michigan (USA), and Andreas Heider, Sales Director Gear Cutting Machines in Kempten (Germany). In the interview, they discuss goals, collaboration, and market potential.

From point cloud to picking

AI supported image processing in bin picking

In the new version of its bin picking software LHRobotics.Vision, Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH relies on artificial intelligence (AI). By filtering irrelevant image data, it detects disordered workpieces faster and more accurately when removing them from the container.