TECHNOLOGIES

Today KRÜTH has three locations in Solingen, where the latest in 3D-Laser-Engraving and Laser-Etching-Engraving are carried out, along with traditional Etching-Engraving. Two further locations, in Austria and Portugal, use classical techniques in production.

In the conferences that precede this step, all the formal and technical details will have been discussed using parts that have not been yet been structured. Transitions in the engraving and sections with lower relief are specified while taking account of draft angles. Also possible, depending on the technology being used, is evaluating CAD data in advance and conducting feasibility studies to support the process. It is important to satisfy the visual, tactile and acoustic requirements as well as the needs listed in the specifications for the function, always taking account of the technology being used. Another objective is achieving a uniform degree of gloss from one item to the next.

PLEASE GET IN TOUCH.

TEXTURE MAPPING

In a texture mapping process prior to production, the engraving is virtually projected onto the tool surface of the CAD data. This allows the texture mappings to be perfectly adapted to the tool geometry and its environment.

The texture mapping can be worked out across components. A series production is always based on the same basis for the distribution of the engraving, even with changing structures. Both in the 3D simulation and with the test checker in the tool (lasered in paint), the engraving can be reliably checked and assessed.

FEASIBILITY STUDY

Feasibility analyses on the CAD data allow the accessibility of the tools to be precisely checked and feasibility assessed in advance of production. The digital pre-production stage offers many control and correction possibilities. Texture mapping makes it possible to assess the appearance and quality of the engraving in advance - in all details and realistically using CAD visualization.

3D-LASERENGRAVING

COMPLETELY DIGITAL
AND VIRTUALLY UNLIMITED.

3D-LaserEngraving is effected with the most modern, fully digital technology for maximum performance. This makes possible virtually endless design options for innovative and individual textures. In this process, the engraving is applied directly to the steel surface of the mold with a five-axis fiber laser, working in every dimension. The successive build-up of the topography for the engraving takes place in individual ablation steps, removing layers of varying thicknesses. The number of layers and steps determines the depth and the three-dimensionality of the engraving.

LASER-ETCHINGENGRAVING

TRADITION MEETS HIGH-TECH.

Making use of combined digital and analog processes in Laser-EtchingEngraving, KRÜTH blends both traditional techniques and the latest in technology. The laser transfers the design to a protective enamel applied to the tool. The laser eats away the enamel, creating the engraving pattern, and preparing the steel for the subsequent etching process. The final engraving is created in an acid bath where the areas on the material’s surface which have been cleared by the laser are ablated. The process is completed once the surface has been rinsed and the degree of gloss has been adjusted. Depending on the engraving image desired, the process steps may be repeated a number of times. In addition to the so-called single-layer engravings, KRÜTH also makes up multi-layer engravings.

ETCHINGENGRAVING

A CLASSIC TRADE
BROUGHT TO PERFECTION.

Depending on the technical requirements and the details of the design, a variety of transfer media and acids may be used in EtchingEngraving. The design is transferred by rubbing the classic wax print films or modern multilayer films. The latter are transparent and can readily be stretched. They let the skilled engraver make the best possible match to the shape of the mold. The desired engraving is then etched away in an acid bath. The surface of the material is ablated at the unprotected areas and the final engraved image is created. Rinsing the surface and adjusting the degree of gloss completes the process.

KRÜTH INNOVATION

LIMITEDREFLECTION-ENGRAVINGS

KRÜTH LimitedReflection engravings reduce the reflection on the surface and are developed together with our customers.
The individual task is defined and analyzed in order to realize these in solution approaches. The aim is always to find and implement the right balance between matt and transparent. In general KRÜTH LimitedReflection engravings have an anti-reflective and semi-transparent effect. These effects are based on structural interactions similar to the active principle of a frosted screen. They are often used in speedometer dials, display surfaces and ambient lighting.