Important Patent* in ski service: Edge grinding with oscillating grinding disks

In 1996, WINTERSTEIGER further perfected its existing disc technology for grinding sides and base edges. The technology was patented and marked an important milestone in WINTERSTEIGER’s history. The first machines to feature the revolutionary “Ceramic Disc Finish” technology were the Trim 80/90 edge grinding machine and the Shuttle 200 automatic ski service machine. To this day, it enables the production of precise ski edges and has solidified WINTERSTEIGER’s position as a trusted partner in ski service.

From Belt to Disc

What makes disc technology unique are the self-sharpening, pendulum-suspended pot grinding discs, which allow for very precise machining of the side and base edges. Prior to this development, ski edges were primarily ground using an abrasive belt—a very imprecise method: The base edge angle, for example, was not adjusted during service but rather applied “by feel.” It is only with disc technology that edge angles can be ground with precision. In racing, for example, a very shallow edge angle of 0.5° or less is ground on the base edge and 87° on the side edge, while recreational skiers, for example, ski with an edge angle of 1° on the base edge and 88° on the side edge: the flatter or sharper the edge angle, the more aggressive and sporty the ski.

Over the past 20 years, WINTERSTEIGER has continuously perfected disc grinding. Disc technology is also state-of-the-art in ski production. Today, approximately 90% of all skis and snowboards are processed and shipped using this technology. It is also used in racing departments and remains one of the most important advantages of WINTERSTEIGER ski service machines—another successful innovation from the Division Sports.

*The patent was granted in 1996 and expired in 2016 after a 20-year term of protection.