Motivation for automation
Two new automation systems can save shops money by reducing machine-loading labor.
Recent developments could win more converts to automated loading and unloading of machine tools.
When a machine is loaded manually, “once every cycle somebody would need to open the door, put a new slug on the main spindle, close the door again and press the start button,” said Raphael Engel, proposal engineering manager at Index Corp., Noblesville, Indiana. “If we assume a two-minute cycle time, that person would have to be at the machine 100% of the time and could basically do nothing else.”
The iXcenter’s 6-axis robot (above) can handle parts that weigh up to 6 kg. Although it features a space-saving design, iXcenter (top) can store up to 22 stacked pallets measuring 600mm × 400mm. Images courtesy of Index Corp.
If a machine is equipped with an automation cell like Index’s iXcenter, however, an operator might need to go to the machine only once every four hours to unload finished parts and load the drawers in the cell’s rack with new slugs. In addition, the machine could run unattended when the last shift leaves for the day.
“You can put new slugs in (iXcenter) before the late shift leaves,” Engel said. “If you do not have a night shift, the machine will still run for hours until there are no parts left. So you can get more productivity out of your machine without increasing your staff or having additional shifts.”
Available with Index’s C series turning centers, iXcenter docks to a machine and easily slides aside to allow unobstructed access to the work area. The system features a compact vertical design capable of storing up to 22 stacked pallets that measure 600mm × 400mm. Pallets are loaded with blanks at the top of the system, and pallets with finished parts are removed at the bottom. Loading and unloading can take place at any time without interrupting production.
The system’s 6-axis robot can handle raw and finished parts that weigh up to 6 kg. The robot pulls out one of the system’s drawers, takes out a raw workpiece and loads it into the machine. The sequence is reversed to put back a finished part.
The Variocell Pallet automation cell (top) holds up to 10 pallets on a rotary table. The interior of the Variocell Pallet (above). Image courtesy of Chiron Group
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