Always at the cutting edge of developments in the field of cutting tools, ISCAR introduces a revolutionary system for parting and grooving operations.

Parting and grooving are essential aspects of the turning process and the metalworking industry faces a constant challenge to integrate methods that will increase efficiency and decrease downtime for these popular operations.

ISCAR fully understands the importance of parting and grooving operations in the turning process and that multiple factors need to be considered for every application, including machine tool selection, the type of material being parted/ grooved, required depth of cut, and feed and speed rates. ISCAR has responded to these complex needs by developing a comprehensive range of highly effective parting and grooving solutions that include an extensive choice of insert geometries, chip breakers, and carbide grades – and the range continues to expand.

With Industry 4.0 demands and standards fueling industry development at extraordinary rates, ISCAR has introduced new parting and grooving technologies capable of integrating seamlessly with the new wave of machining centers that work with incredibly high feeds. TANG-F-GRIP has been designed to answer these needs and to achieve high productivity and lower costs.

A revolutionary parting system designed for increased productivity, TANG-F-GRIP comprises a robust tool block carrying square blades that feature four pockets, with a unique parting concept capable of parting off up to 120mm bar diameter to optimize performance.

TANG-F-GRIP is simple to mount and operate on all machine types, including multi-task and machining centers on X-AXIS, without any need for special adjustment. The system enables the mounting of both TANG-F-GRIP and DO-GRIP blades on the same blocks.

The square blades possess a support system that provides totally vibrationfree grooving and parting. TANG-F-GRIP also saves on setup time as, in cases of pocket damage, the block’s configuration allows a blade to be rotated to a new pocket without setup.

TANG-F-GRIP is intended for high feed parting. It extends insert life, improves surface finish and part straightness, and features high stability – especially when parting large diameters. The new patented blades reduce cutting time and also enable significant material savings – for instance, a 120mm bar can be cut with a 3mm blade with HF (high feed) inserts at a feed rate of up to 0.4 mm/rev (.0157ipr).

The HF tangential single-ended insert was developed to enable highly efficient parting at very high feed rates, by use of a unique chipformer technology. The insert features a new insert chipformer to allow unobstructed chip flow, which increases insert and blade tool life and leads to very high productivity gains.

All TANG-GRIP inserts can be integrated into the TANG-F-GRIP system, which is also compatible with DO-GRIP DGN double-sided twisted geometry parting inserts, to provide an extensive choice of parting widths for all application ranges. ISCAR offers a wide variety of chipformers and advanced grades to ensure unbeatable performance and extended tool life.

A revolutionary secure clamping method using a tangentially orientated pocket facilitates pocket life that is three times longer than that of any other conventional selfgrip system. The robust clamping method enables machining at high feed rates and provides excellent straightness and surface finish characteristics, while the flat top configuration prevents chip obstructions under all possible machining conditions.

The JETCUT system incorporates ingeniously designed through coolant channels to deliver coolant close to the cutting edge, which improves chip formation and slashes flank and cratering rates.

When machining materials such as stainless steel or high temperature alloys, the temperature near the cutting edge area becomes extremely high. In addition, these material types tend to adhere to the tools cutting edge, causing built-up edge. These problematic phenomena can be moderated by targeting high pressure coolant directly to the cutting zone.

ISCAR maintains its unrelenting progress as a result of the company’s continuous development of innovative, high-quality products, based on the talented work of the company’s R&D Department and prompted by the evolving needs of global industry. This desire to provide customers with the very latest, most efficient metal cutting technology is reflected in the introduction of TANG-F-GRIP solutions to ISCAR’s comprehensive GRIP range of parting and grooving tools.

NORIS taps for processing a wide variety of steel alloys, cast iron and various nonferrous alloys are well known under the names SALOREX UNI for blind holes and STABIL UNI for through-hole. REIME NORIS now extends the UNI series to high performance taps made of HSSE-PM (HSS-PS) with improved cutting geometry and TiCN coating.

NORIS SALOREX UNI – the specialist for deep blind hole threads up to 3 x D thread depth – has 42° right-hand helix flutes. These provide secure chip removal against the cutting direction.

NORIS STABIL UNI stands for the production of through hole threads up to 4 x D thread depth. The special STABIL-flutes move the chips in the cutting direction.

The drills are available in metric sizes from M3 to M20 and M8 x 1 to M16 x 1,5 in stock.

In both versions, the use of powder metallurgical high-speed steel permits higher cutting speeds while increasing tool life. The user benefits by increasing the cycle times and a reduction in tool costs. With the ability to process a very wide range of materials, additional cost of storage and tool investment can be reduced. The proven cutting edge geometries were further optimized in detail. They are specially adapted to the characteristics of the HSSEPM substrate and the coating. REIME NORIS thus promises significant performance gains and expects especially in the production of small- and medium-sized series, the greatest economic advantages of using these high performance taps.

As the need for machining smaller volume work pieces made from cast iron and steel has grown, so has the need for smaller size tools that can enhance productivity and reduce operating cost. Therefore TaeguTec offers a smaller size insert for its highly popular Chase2Hepta milling line.

The Chase2Hepta 6mm inserts and cutters are available to meet the challenges posed by technical trends in forging and casting technologies which is demanding higher productivity and economical tools that can handle lower depth of cut conditions.

The Chase2Hepta line is renowned for offering 14 corners on one insert. The double-sided and highly effective 45 degrees entry angle is the ideal solution for high performance on cast iron and steel machining, while its positive cutting edge geometry lowers cutting loads during rough machining making it an efficient and smooth set of tools. Covering a wider range of machining applications, the dual usage TaeguTec Chase2Hepta 6mm inserts are screw type.

The line of mini cutters comes in three geometries – the M, MM and ML.

The M geometry 6mm Chase2Hepta line is used for roughing applications of steel and cast iron work pieces and its smooth machining with good tool life is due to its reinforced, positive rake angle.

For general cast iron machining applications, the optimized cutting edges of TaeguTec’s MM geometry chip breakers on the Chase2Hepta 6mm line means low cutting forces in cast iron machining.

The ML geometry for the 6mm line is ideal for cast iron light machining and difficult to cut materials such as stainless steel and heat resistant alloys. Its sharp, positive cutting edge was designed for minimal cutting force.

To meet market demand, TaeguTec has released an expansion to the CHASE-4-FEED family – BLMP 04, 11 inserts and cutters. They are, smaller double-sided four corner BLMP 04 inserts for small and high feed machining applications.

The smaller size inserts mean more inserts can be mounted to the same diameter cutters, which will greatly improve productivity over the existing BLMP 06 type under similar conditions. Available in Ø8(1z) and Ø10(2z) sizes, these are an alternative to solid end mills for roughing operations.

While both the BLMP 11 and BLMP 13 cover a similar machining range, the BLMP 11 inserts give an advantage as they make it a finer pitch same diameter cutter for better productivity.

The cutters come in all types, including face mill, end mill and modular types.

While, as part of the new campaign, the design for the new CHASE-4-FEED line highlights TaeguTec’s new direction, the new CHASE-4-FEED logo will be applied to the BLMP 06, 09 inserts and cutters as well.

ISCAR is introducing MULTI-MASTER solid carbide heads, designed for face milling applications that require small diameters. The new MM FM MULTI-MASTER solid carbide face milling heads are intended for face and shoulder milling in narrow and confined areas, as well as on small milling machines or mill-turn machine tools.

MM FM MULTI-MASTER milling heads are available in 12 to 25 mm diameters, featuring 6 flutes, 3.6 to 7.5 maximum milling depth, excellent surface finish and high tooth density, which enables very fast table feed. The milling heads can be used with all MULTI-MASTER adaptation options and are less expensive when compared to solid carbide endmills.

ISCAR recommends using the tools with a short overhang to achieve maximum stability, which influences surface finish and tool life.

Neway CNC Equipment Co offers a cost effective range of vertical machining centres, which are manufactured at the company’s modern manufacturing plants in Suzhou China.

Neway’s excellent manufacturing and quality control capabilities are maximized by the use of latest equipment from well-known international brands including Zayer, Kellenberger, Starragheckert, Swiss SIP, Renishaw and Shenck. They hold ISO and CE certification.

Neway’s Chinese manufacturing operation is supported by the group’s head office in Texas USA and a sales and support centre in Germany.

Neway CNC Equipment currently offers a range of moving table vertical machining centres which range in table size from 750 x 420mm to 1800 x 800mm. This range is available in the following table sizes, VM740 – 750 x 420mm, VM950 – 950 x 520mm, VM1150 – 1100 x 520mm, VM1260 – 1200 x 600mm, VM1360 – 1350 x 600mm, VM1580 – 1500 x x800mm, VM1780 – 1700 x 800 and VM1880 – 1800 x 800mm.

The VM740, VM950 and VM1150 models are fitted with BT40 spindle tapers. These three models are available as a lower specification S series with a Fanuc 0i-Mate-MD controller or a higher specified H series which are supplied with a Fanuc 0i-MD controller. The VM1260 and VM1360 models are fitted with BT 40 spindle taper as standard and can be supplied with a BT50 spindle taper as an option. The VM1580, VM1780 and VM1880 are only available as H series specification with Fanuc 0i-MD controllers and have BT50 spindle tapers as standard. With the exception of the VM740, which has a 20 tool magazine, all models in the range come with a 24 tool magazine and arm type tool changer.

The complete series of models from VM740 to VM1880 in the S and H range have linear guideways on all three axis. The additional HR series which is available in sizes from VM950 to VM1780 feature box guideways as opposed to linear guideways. Full enclosure guarding and chip conveyors feature as standard equipment across the entire range.

Factory fitted optional equipment includes 4th axis rotary tables, through spindle coolant, workpiece measuring and toolsetting probes systems. Spindle oil cooling systems and coolant water/oil separators are available on request.

To complement the range of vertical machining centres, Neway CNC Equipment offers the VM640D drilling and tapping machine. This machine has a table size of 650 x 400mm, a 16 position cam type tool changer with a 1.6 second tool change, a spindle speed of 15 000 rpm, X and Y axis rapid feed rates of 48 meters per minute and a Z axis rapid feed rate of 60 meters per minute. They come fitted with the Fanuc 0i MD controller.

Versatility, Speed & Intelligence

The new-generation Advanced Version ROBODRILL promises unrivalled quality and precision at great hourly rates.

With an unbeatable tool change time of 0.7 seconds and a turret capable of handling tools weighing up to 4kg, the new advanced version is both the fastest and strongest Robodrill yet. With by far the shortest cycle times on most machining operations, all ROBODRILL machines offer incredible performance and unbeatable efficiency.

Designed to meet every need, the ROBODRILL α-DiB5 series comprises of six completely redesigned models in Space Saver, Medium and Long sizes, available in either standard or advanced versions. With a rigid servo drive control and a highly dynamic BT30 spindle, these high-speed all-rounders are suitable for all vertical machining applications, from short production runs requiring fast turnaround times to flawless mass production. With well over 200 000 machines installed worldwide, its future-proof versatility and easy adaptability make the ROBODRILL the best-selling machine in its class.

Spreading your machining work across several ROBODRILLs instead of relying on a dedicated transfer machine, allows you to benefit from cheaper production and higher flexibility in the face of changing production numbers. Inherently adaptable, FANUC ROBODRILL also represents a great addition to your production facilities, since you can use it to absorb extra demand, thereby freeing up your larger vertical machining centres for bigger jobs.

Spreading your machining work across several ROBODRILLs instead of relying on a dedicated transfer machine, allows you to benefit from cheaper production and higher flexibility in the face of changing production numbers. Inherently adaptable, FANUC ROBODRILL also represents a great addition to your production facilities, since you can use it to absorb extra demand, thereby freeing up your larger vertical machining centres for bigger jobs.

The Advanced Version offers many unique improvements:

Improved swarf evacuation

To maximize uptime, the ROBODRILL α-DiB5 series can be fitted with a number of swarf evacuation options: from the coolant tank and chip flush methods to a piping system for wall coolant. Advanced versions minimize swarf interference with a mountain-shaped Y-axis front cover. It also offers an optional fully-enclosed spindle cover that separates the machining area from the mechanism.

Stronger Turret for bigger Tools

At the heart of every ROBODRILL is a patented high-speed tool changer that can carry up to 21 tools and offers the best reliability in its class. Its manufactured efficiency lies in its solid metal construction and optional BIG-PLUS BBT30 spindle.

This makes it extremely resistant to radial forces and enables it to deliver unbelievably efficient machining.

Advanced version ROBODRILLs feature an even stronger turret. Offering even more versatility, this enables the tool changer to handle heavy, customized cutting tools weighing up to 4kg while still realizing ultraquick tool changing times.

Power Failure Backup Module

Power interruptions can be costly. Avoid unnecessary workpiece damage or tool damage with FANUCs Power Failure Backup module. This will prevent the tool from dropping into the workpiece or the axis from slowly decelerating to a stop potentially causing a collision with the spindle, or jigs and fixtures.

All of the new model ROBODRILLS can be fitted with the improved Direct Drive 4th axis with built in brake. For ultra high speed indexing, or 4 axis simultaneous work, the new DDRiB offers unrivalled speed and accuracy.

When you have longer workpieces or want to put many on the table at the same time, the new DDR-TiB offers a factory built 4th axis with tail support, base plate, and angle brackets for a swing plate. Available in 300mm, 500mm or 700mm in X direction, this allows maximum use of the ROBODRILLS travel space.

Need a 5 axis machine? No problem!

ROBODRILLs are available with 5 axis simultaneous control allowing machining of complex workpieces. Control functions like Tool Certer Point Control and smart smoothing functions mean you can manufacture high quality parts quickly and accurately.

Smart Automation and Robotization

As the worlds largest manufacturer of Industrial robots, FANUC offers the advantage of full automation and robotization from a single supplier.

Through a single Package called QSSR, or Quick and Simple Start of Robotization, robot loading can be quickly configured.

IoT and Information Management

In todays world information is everything. FANUC offers a solution for production monitoring for the factory floor. Information from each machine is gathered and presented graphically. Production count or time, tool life information, alarm diagnosis, program details, feed & speed details etc can be viewed and stored for every machine connected to the system.

FANUCs legendary reliability coupled with easy preventative maintenance procedures keeps downtime to an absolute minimum. And thanks to their extreme longevity, ROBODRILL machines also provide an unbeatable return on investment.

FANUC ROBODRILL is proudly made in Japan and comes with a 2 year mechanical and control warranty.

In a market where skilled artisans are becoming more and more scarce, it has become necessary to look at alternative ways of machining, whether it be for general engineering, tool-making or production work.

CNC machining is quicker and certainly more accurate than conventional milling machines and there is no need for constant monitoring while in use. Taking this into account, MJH Machine Tools have a solution to suit customers’ needs. Featuring an entry level CNC control, our Ctek CNC milling machine is the first step to CNC machining.

As long as the operator has basic knowledge on using a DRO, he can, within a few hours, be taught how to program and run the machine. There is no need for G code knowledge as the control is conversational, using a question and answer format. The software is simple to use with graphic input in basic machinist language. The control has options for standard operation modes such as drill, tap, bore, contour and pocket programming, which is ideally suited to general engineering work without a need for external programming packages.

The latest Ctek’s come with linear guides on all three axes for better accuracy and speed, as well as a direct spindle drive motor and an improved Z axis motor with inline break which eliminates the need for a counterbalance. The Ctek can be fitted with a 4th axis within a matter of hours and programmed from the standard Ctek control.

The Ctek range has six x-travel sizes, 800mm, 1 000mm, 1 500mm, 1 800mm, 2 000mm and 2 500mm. These machines are available in open type or fully enclosed depending on the customer’s requirements. All spares are available ex stock at a fraction of the cost compared to other controls. With hundreds of these machines sold throughout South Africa since 1997, it is not surprising that Ctek CNC milling machines have been the first step to full CNC machining in many workshops.

Should there be a requirement for a high performance machining centre for super fine finishing and accuracy, the Akira Seiki is the machine to consider. Spindle power ranging from 15HP on the Junior series to 42HP on the Super Vertical range and spindle speeds from 9 000rpm to 15 000rpm guarantee high quality surface finish.

Akira Seiki machines come standard with spindle oil chillers, inner spindle air chiller, coolant through spindle, pneumatic counter balance, chip screw conveyor, quick change ATC and 4th axis preparation.

The DMU 75 monoBLOCK® combines top features for five-axis simultaneous machining and a large working space with 750mm X-travel. Equipped with CELOS® with MAPPS on FANUC from DMG MORI. Highly demanding industries require machine tools that are up to the challenge of realizing best quality in the most economical way. The monoBLOCK® series developed by DMG MORI has set a benchmark in almost every sector: aerospace, automotive or medical, among others, relies on the machine tools’ precision, stability and flexibility. With the new DMU 75 monoBLOCK® the world leading machine tool manufacturer addresses in particular price-conscious as well as innovation oriented customers. Therefore, the package contains the latest five-axis simultaneous machining technology, 60 pockets as magazine, speedMASTER® spindle with 20.000 rpm and as CELOS® with MAPPS on FANUC.

The extremely compact footprint of less than 8m2 and the spacious working area (X/Y/Z: 750/650/560mm) suitable for various work pieces of up to 840mm diameter and 600kg are the most obvious characteristics of the DMU 75 monoBLOCK®. Since the easily accessible working area can be loaded with a crane from directly above, the table users are provided with a maximum of comfort during their work. Apart from that the working area is cased with durable stainless steel for a long-term value. Another user-friendly factor that additionally guarantees best working results is the optimized chip fall and chip disposal from the machine to the rear.

Looking at the inner values of the DMU 75 monoBLOCK ® DMG MORI has ensured a maximum of precision. Whereas direct scale feedback allow exact machining, a one-piece stand, stable slides, 45mm roller guides in all axes plus a FEM optimization of all components stand for highest rigidity. The stability is continued in the swivel rotary table with its large bearing as well as the large ball screws in all axes, whereas weight optimized X- and Y-slides as well as the Z-ram promise highest dynamics. The linear axes achieve rapid traverse speeds of up to 40 m/min and an acceleration of 6 m/s2. Consequently, the table is the basis for reliable and challenging five-axis simultaneous machining of complex work pieces.

The DMU 75 monoBLOCK® package is completed by a powerful SK40 speedMASTER® motor spindle with 20,000 rpm, 130 Nm (40% ED) and 35 kW (40% ED) and a vertical chain magazine for 60 tools. Offering CELOS® with MAPPS on FANUC, DMG MORI is able to meet the preference of even more customers.

Sporting a new look, and more capacity throughout for all functions, the new ULTRASONIC 20 linear impresses with ultrasonic machining of advanced materials.

For many years, DMG MORI has been offering high-performance machine tools with ULTRASONIC technology for 5-axis machining of complex workpieces made of advanced materials. With the new ULTRASONIC 20 linear, this series now captures a completely new class. Spindle speeds with optionally up to 60,000 rpm, more powerful drive motors, an even smaller footprint plus CELOS with apps specifically developed for the ULTRASONIC are all part of the innovations which users from the fields of optics, precision engineering and clocks, medicine and high precision mould manufacturing will benefit from in the future.

Reduced process forces for filigree structures, surface qualities up to Ra <0.1 μm and longer tool service life

Included with the most important technological innovations of the ULTRASONIC 20 linear are a new, completely digitally controlled ultrasonic generator and the ULTRASONIC actuators with higher capacity and rotational speeds of up to 50,000 rpm. The tool holders with adapted actuator technology can be easily and fully automatically replaced in the milling spindle. Each of these holders is equipped with piezo elements, which are activated via a program-controlled induction system with high frequency between 20 and 50 kHz. The original tool rotation is thus superimposed with additional tool movement with defined amplitude in longitudinal direction. The resulting deflection of the cutting edges or grinding areas is controlled via the NC program and can be in a range of up to 10μm or even higher. During grinding, drilling and milling, these superimposed vibrations have a direct, positive impact on the process forces, the removal volume and the tool service life and thus result in reduced costs and higher productivity.

In detail, the ULTRASONIC technology achieves a higher removal volume, more precise edge processing and up to 40 percent reduced process forces during machining of advanced materials like glass, ceramics, sapphire, hard metal and composite materials as well as carbide. The precision of the workpieces and reliability of the process are increased at the same time. Furthermore, the oscillating interruption of the tool contact with the workpiece results in an improved lubrication and cooling of the cutting edges and the optimum removal of stripped particles from the work area. The outcome is longer service life of the tools and excellent surface quality of up to <0.1 μ for hard-brittle highperformance materials. The ULTRASONIC 20 linear ideally combines high speed cutting with highly efficient ULTRASONIC grinding of advanced materials on a single machine. It enables the machining of an unprecedented range of different materials.

Intelligent ULTRASONIC technology with process-optimized amplitudes

“ULTRASONIC Parameter Detection” of the ULTRASONIC 20 linear ensures automatic detection of the ultrasonic frequency most suitable for the actuator and tool with powerful functions for process monitoring. Another function used for the first time worldwide is the monitoring and tracking as well as of frequency and amplitude during the ongoing machining process. For this purpose, UAT (Ultrasonic Auto Tuning) automatically tracks the frequency response and compensates all exterior influences like the dampening of ultrasonic vibrations by means of the primary process forces. This way, a consistent readjustment to the nominal amplitude or the value specified in the NC program can be achieved. With this, users can fully exhaust their processes and increase tool utilization, reduce cycle times and, particularly by reducing the process forces, achieve even more filigree, precise and high quality machining results.

Highly dynamic, long-term stable 5-axis machine concept – compact on just 3.5 m² footprint

With the ULTRASONIC 20 linear, DMG MORI relies on a long-term stable gantry machine design, to be able to safely meet all demands of ultrasonic machining. Despite this, the machine tool manufacturer was able to reduce the footprint of the machine to only 3.5m². A double drive for the Y-axis and the concept of integrated cooling, which uses the temperature monitoring of drives, spindles and the control as well as all media guarantee highest precision and workpiece quality. The linear measuring systems from MAGNASCALE are a good example for the high-tech components which DMG MORI has used here.

DMG MORI has significantly increased the capacity of the drives for the new development: by 47 percent for the A-axis, 27 percent for the C-axis and 34 percent for the Z-axis. The linear drives achieve maximum acceleration of more than 2 g and provide rapid traverse speeds of up to 40 metres per minute. Due to the large swivel range of the A-axis of the work table, ranging from -15° to 130° and the fully integrated 360° endless rotation axis – both with torque technology, the ULTRASONIC 20 linear is optimally suited to 5-axis simultaneous machining. The rotational speed of 1500 rpm that can optionally be achieved for the C-axis also enables circular milling/circular grinding as well as turning/milling operations.

After the revamp, the ULTRASONIC 20 linear can now be used with larger tool diameters of up to 50mm and an increased maximum workpiece weight from 10kg to 15kg. The basic version of the machine is equipped with a powerful 15 kW motor spindle and a HSK-32 tool holder, the maximum rotational speed is at 42,000 rpm. Higher demands on the rotational speed can be achieved with an optional spindle, which reaches an impressive 60,000 rpm. The range in this segment is rounded off by an HSK-40 spindle with permanent lubrication.

The modular concept of DMG MORI enables a wide-ranging application-specific configuration of the machines – of course this also applies to the ULTRASONIC 20 linear. For example, the machine can be supplied with a 1,500 rpm turning/milling table, which extends complete machining of rotation-symmetric workpieces in a single setup to the operations of milling, turning and grinding. In addition to the tool magazine with 24 pockets and minute wheel, a 60-pocket chain magazine is optionally available.

Unique integration of technologies

The ULTRASONIC 20 linear with its special features enables the use of ultrasonic support for specific materials, namely the milling and drilling of nickel or titanium super alloys or of materials like magnesium, tungsten as well as composite materials. Process forces have been reduced for milling applications in titanium by up to 30 percent. For steel, double feed speeds are possible, for other materials, like magnesium, the feed speeds can be increased by up to five-fold. In addition, an improved surface quality can be achieved. The ULTRASONIC process has a significant impact on chip breaking behaviour and chip removal from the tool. Further to shorter chips, this also results in drastically reduced tool wear, making the technology interesting for almost all future-oriented target markets with high-tech products. The specific benefits associated with the option of using the ULTRASONIC technology have also taken the flexibility to a new level. It is now possible to machine workpieces from very different materials from soft to hardbrittle, in five axes for mould making, medical technology, the automotive and aerospace industry.

ULTRASONIC 20 linear with new design and CELOS

High-quality, long-lasting covers as an external distinguishing feature with functional added value thanks to optimum accessibility are the most important properties of the new standardized DMG MORI design. The ULTRASONIC 20 linear also has this new look, whose impact on value retention must not be underestimated and furthermore, the machines offer CELOS. This user interface with its unique multi-touchscreen can be used as easily as a smartphone. The user friendliness is further increased by CELOS apps which were specifically developed for ultrasonic machining. They visualise the ULTRASONIC technology cycles and the most important process parameters like frequency, amplitude and output power. At the same time, the apps monitor the process forces of the actuators and also support configuration of the tools.