01.04.2008

More productivity for the processing of cubic parts: Schuler’s new product line of automated machining centers integrates tools and tool logistics

Productivity and flexibility are the terms of the moment in the metal-cutting industry. The current sustained growth period has provided many metal-cutting companies with bulging order books. The main topics are a reduction in set-up and changeover times – and thus correspondingly longer running times. The market is also characterized at present by fast order changes. One step on the way to cost-efficient and flexible solutions is to automate the logistics involved with machining centers. Schuler Automation recently unveiled its new APS (Automated Production System) product line, which enables companies to automate both material and tool logistics for machine tools used to process cubic parts.

The APS is based on tried and trusted Schuler Automation logistics components for handling unmachined and finished parts on Euro pallets and pallets for machining centers. The APS integrates different pallet sizes and types into a cost-effective total system. Four different equipment types are available in standard sizes, whereby the maximum die diameters are 900, 1,150, 1,400 and 1,750 mm. Special sizes with loads of up to eight tons, including pallet, are available on request. Schuler can variably adapt the arrangement of storage units, set-up facilities and machines to the customer’s specific requirements. The system is integrated into the manufacturing process via the standardized production control software Soflex-PCS. This system controls both pallet transport from the high-bay warehouse and the provision of tools for the machine from a central depot. Open interfaces to the machine’s control system and company software ensure that the right unmachined parts, tools and programs are brought together. By combining tool and tool logistics with the machine’s control system, users can produce batch sizes of 1 without setting up times and without needing to have the complete die set at every machining center.

Well-suited to new machines and retrofits

The first project which Schuler equipped with the new automation solution links three universal machining centers, each with a 120 chain magazine and additional 400 tools in the Schuler ATS (Automated Tool System), with two set-up stations and an automated pallet system for 52 machine pallets. This convenient, fully automated and highly reliable system enables unmanned production during the weekend shift. Similar constellations are not only possible for new equipment, but also for the retrofitting of existing lines. With the aid of targeted automation, users can save the investment cost for an additional machine. The tremendous increase in flexibility makes the investment even safer.

Alexander Hergl, Product Manager at Schuler Automation, is certain that the new product line will generate plenty of interest: “In view of fast order changes and high capacity utilization in the manufacturing sector, the need for high-performance and flexible production will be a central issue. In terms of automation technology, this means that users are looking for new solutions which they can tailor to their production environment, as this is the only way they can achieve sustainable cost advantages. The necessary flexibility and productivity is hard to achieve with standard solutions. This is why we believe we are well positioned with our modular range.”