What distinguishes Marena tools technically, and where do they offer the greatest added value compared to standard market solutions?
We manufacture the entire portfolio of solid carbide tools: end mills, drills, reamers, as well as a wide range of special profiled and step tools with different diameters and geometries. Approximately 95% of our production is based on carbide, although we also manufacture tools in high‑speed steel when required by the application.
In automotive applications, we have extensive experience in special drills and high‑productivity milling cutters, while in aerospace we mainly focus on milling heat‑resistant materials such as titanium or CrNi superalloys. In recent years, the defense sector has also grown significantly for us.
Our key differentiator compared to standard solutions lies in the precise adaptation of each tool to the specific application, combining geometry, substrate and coating to achieve more stable, reliable and productive processes.
From your experience, what are currently the biggest challenges in machining processes, regardless of the industry?
Today, the greatest challenge in machining is ensuring stable and robust processes. The requirements of new materials and market demands – especially in terms of speed of adaptation, manufacturing precision and cost – make it necessary to work with highly repeatable, precise and reliable geometries.
To achieve this, the three essential pillars – substrate, geometry and coating – must work coherently. Carbide quality, geometric precision and a stable, consistent coating are key to meeting customer expectations.
Without continuous innovation in coatings, it would be impossible to maintain the performance level demanded by industry today.
Let’s talk about these three factors – substrate, geometry and coating. What does each of them represent?
The substrate is the foundation. Having a consistent range of carbide grades with different hardness and toughness levels, adapted to the application, is essential to ensure consistent and reliable machining processes.
Building on this, tool geometry plays a decisive role. Proper design is based on a deep understanding of the application: the machine, the material, the operation and the machining conditions. This deep understanding can then be translated into precise and stable tool geometries.
Finally, the coating. Selecting the right coating is essential for the tool’s final performance, which is why working with partners like Oerlikon Balzers is crucial. They support us in selecting the most suitable coating depending on the specific operation.