Gear technology and automation systems

Evotion 2025 | Customer Magazine

Apprentices build mini gantry loader all by themselves

As part of an interdisciplinary training project, apprentices at Liebherr- Verzahntechnik GmbH have single-handedly designed, built and programmed a small-scale gantry loader. The aim of the task was to create a functional model, which replicated real processes in automation systems and could also be used as a practical learning object and for demonstrations. This was largely achieved by a project team of apprentices and dual-program students working autonomously.

  • 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).

Efficiency gains in twist-free generating grinding

Cost-effective optimization of tooth flanks

By advancing twist-free generating grinding, Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH is elevating efficiency and quality in hard-fine machining to the next level. The machining times when using dressable grinding worms have been reduced to almost the same level as conventional methods – even with asymmetrical gear teeth. At the same time, optimized shift methods enable fine grinding or polishing to be integrated into a single machining step.

CHIRON Group relies on LHRobotics.Vision smart technology package

Bin picking for all situations

The CHIRON Group, headquartered in Tuttlingen (Germany), is a leading global specialist in CNC-controlled machining centers as well as turnkey and automation solutions. To make its advanced automation projects more flexible and efficient, the company sought a bin picking solution independent of specific robots and cameras – and found the ideal technology package in LHRobotics.Vision from Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH.

Measurement along the path of contact und waviness analysis

Progressive measurement solution: Patent application for faster and more precise results

Waviness on tooth flank surfaces is a significant factor in noise developing in gearboxes. Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH has therefore filed for a patent for a new measurement method, which produces more precise and meaningful results with less labor required.

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.

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.

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.

Hard-fine machining I – a cost effective process for internal gears and splines

Hard skiving: An alternative to grinding or honing

The hard skiving process opens up new possibilities in hard-fine machining internal gears and splines, which, when processes like grinding or honing are used, are difficult, unproductive or impossible to achieve. It can even out hardening distortion in a targeted fashion, stands out for its high flexibility, long tool life and economic efficiency, and can be used by simply changing the tool on the Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH gear skiving machines.

Hard-fine machining II – quality and efficiency for internal gears

SkiveFinishing®: Innovative and precise

SkiveFinishing® is a new method for efficiently hard machining high quality internal gears. It combines the flexibility of gear skiving with the advantages of non-dressable CBN tools. An innovative CBN tool by Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH ensures a long tool life and even enables profile modification.