CNC Machine tending is economical if a robot services 2 to 3 turning centers or a combination of CNC’s and VMC’s. Robotic systems are also more flexible when compared to stand-alone autoloaders and gantry systems.
We provide system integration for robotic cells with the following
- In-feed & out-feed systems such as slat chain conveyors, accumulating conveyors, rotary tables, slide tables, belt conveyors, step feeders & bin feeders
- Vision based Bin picking systems
- Re-grip/flip stations, orientation fixtures, intermediate
- Inspection and part cleaning stations
- Pneumatic and Servo auto door option for machines
- Safety systems with Interlocking Gates
- Complete interfacing & interlocks with CNC machines
- Multi-gauging/Measurement systems with auto offset correction
- Secondary operations such as deburring
- Laser part marking and engraving
- QR Code reader integration, Part traceability & Rejection part marking
- Data availability for IOT and ERP systems
We recommend Robotic solutions for the following components
- For components with low cycle times where frequency of loading is high
- For components where the process is stable and frequent insert changes and offset corrections are not required
- For components which run on multiple machines and where the same gripper can handle the component through multiple operations
- For heavy components where operator loading is difficult and takes more than the allocated time and this causes unwanted machine idle time
- For components with higher cycle time where a single robot can serve 4-5 machines
- For components which have a machining cycle time of above 1 minute, a single robot can serve 3 spindles. This is a very efficient way of utilizing both the robot and the CNC machine. If the component machining times are 2-3 minutes or more, the robot can be better utilized to serve up to 4 machines by moving the robot on a 7th axis track.
Advantages of Robotic Cells
- Two or three robotic cells can be manned by a single operator. The loading frequency can be reduced by utilizing a variety of infeed systems
- Robots are also very user friendly and easily reprogrammable. Programming and understanding robots is much easier compared to CNC programming
- Robots are very reliable. With proper selection and maintenance, their life can be very long and easily be on par with that of a CNC Machine
- Our solutions are seamlessly integrated with the CNC machines. The machine controller is interfaced to our PLC. The signal exchange is through hardwiring or communication protocols. The Cell is handled through the HMI and the operator does not have to use the robot teach pendant
- For cells with multiple machines, we provide safety access doors for the individual machines, so that the output is not compromised during insert changes and offset corrections.
Typically the following machines can be serviced by robots
Vertical Machining Centers (VMC)
VMC's often have hihger cycle times and a single cell with multiple VMC's or a combination of turning centers and VMC's can be grouped together to form aproduct based cell
Horizontal Machining Centers (HMC)
HMC's are usually used for larger components which require heavy lifting. Robots can reduce the loading and unloading times thus improving the time available for metal cutting operations.
Vertical Turning Lathes (VTL)
VTS's are typically used for heavy valve components. Operators take additional time for loading and unloading heavy components using load assists and jib cranes.
Turning Centers (CNC)
Gear Hobbing & Gear Grinding
Componets such as sprockets and gears need to be laoded in bulk to gear hobbing machines. Robots can run 24/7 to improve productivity
Induction Hardening Machines
Robotic loading of induction hardening machines saves the operators from smoke inhalation and exposure to hot components
PART TRACEABILITY
SUCCESFUL PROJECTS
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Industries Served
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Automotive
Cut bits, Cast, forged and die cast components can loaded to machines using robots. Typical high volume auto components provide the max benefits when loaded by robots
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Aerospace
Machines used in aerospace component machining are very capital intensive. Robotic loading increases metal cutting time thus maximizing productivity
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Medical Devices
High precision medical devices need complex machining and gentle handling. Implants, orthotic devices and medical instruments handled by robots reduces surface defects and improves quality
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Oil & Gas
Heavy components such as hangars, bonnets and valve components used in the oil & gas industry are ideally suited for high payload robots.
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Textile & General Industry
Textile machinery requires hundreds of CNC machined components and robotic tending is a sure way to ensure on time delivery and absorbing the fluctuations created due to seasonal demand.
