Automation Helps Improve Employee Productivity
Stark Industrial LLC’s first stand-alone robot works within a new turning machine cell that is currently dedicated to the simple machining operation of processing a cast aerospace part that is proprietary and is the further step the shop needed to gain process control.
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This automated cell centers on a robot-loaded CNC turning center. The parts are relatively simple, but the automation allows the skilled employees to perform more value-added work.
Stark Industrial LLC in North Canton, Ohio has found a middle ground between full automation and human employees. With part of their workload relieved, the shop’s highly trained machinists have more time for inspection and other critical operations. These operations have typically involved systems such as bar feeders, parts catchers and machine tool pallet-changing capability along with automatic in-process gaging.
The shop’s first stand-alone robot is the further step it needed to gain process control. It works within a new turning machine cell that is currently dedicated to the simple machining operation of processing a cast aerospace part that is proprietary. This has allowed them to meet the required quantities and consistently produce accurate parts. Now machinists are able to comfortably move from machine to machine as production requirements dictate.
For more information on how to incorporate machines that further processing capabilities and expand the range of part types that can be produced, check out Chris Koepfer’s article “Shop Gains Process with Automation.” Read the full article here.
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