ZOLLER will debut two new machines at IMTS 2026 in Chicago: the »micBox« automated insert-handling system and the »pomBasic MTI« micro-tool inspection system, both making their world premiere at the company's Booth W-432018. The »micBox« fully automates indexable insert handling on milling tools, covering tool identification, insert indexing, rotating, flipping, replacement and fastening-screw changes without operator intervention. An optional AI-supported »wearCheck« function evaluates each cutting edge and decides whether an insert should stay in use, be indexed, or be replaced.
Engineers running high-mix milling operations will care about how much manual insert-changing time the »micBox« removes from the toolroom. ZOLLER is pairing the system with its modular »roboBox« for automated tool preparation and the »coraMeasure LG«, which combines robotic handling with a ZOLLER »venturion« for automated tool measuring. Together, the three systems are built to cut manual workload and support unattended tool preparation and measurement.
The »pomBasic MTI« targets a narrower but trickier job: inspecting and measuring micro-tools directly on the production floor. MTI stands for Micro Tool Inspection, and the compact, production-integrated unit uses a high-resolution micro-camera with coaxial lighting. Its zoom lens covers a magnification range of 125x to 1250x, letting operators check the smallest cutting tools without sending them to a separate metrology lab.
ZOLLER is bringing the rest of its toolroom lineup to the same booth, including the »powerShrink« heat-shrinking unit, which the company says shrinks tools in under 60 seconds while using 30 percent less energy, and the »toolBalancer«, which balances toolholders, tool assemblies and grinding wheels to within 0.4 gram millimeters. ZOLLER toolholders on display are balanced to G2.5 at 25,000 rpm, and the company's »zidCode 4.0« platform and »z.DMI« interface handle two-way tool-data transfer with Heidenhain, Siemens, FANUC, Matsuura and Makino controls.
ZOLLER will close out the show with its North American Toolroom of the Year competition, which recognizes customers for toolroom organization and connectivity. The company plans to announce the 2026 winners at its booth on Thursday, September 17, at 3:30 p.m.
