Benefits of Robotic CNC Machine Tending
Using industrial robots to tend CNC machines has become a growing movement in manufacturing. Rising costs, labor shortages, increased competition, and safety concerns have manufacturers automating the operation of their CNC machines with the FANUC M-20ia-10L and other industrial robots. Not only can automating CNC machine tending combat many of the major issues today’s manufacturers face, but there are also several benefits to be gained.
Mitigate Errors
Manual CNC machine tending can be very error prone and inconsistent. Workers can mishandle parts leading to product damage. They may also incorrectly feed or place parts into machinery. Human errors can result in poor product quality as well as more scrapped parts. Replacing human CNC operators with industrial robotic arms will eliminate such errors. The Yaskawa Motoman HP20D will safely handle and correctly place parts into CNC machines. The precision and accuracy of articulated robots prevents errors and material waste while ensuring consistent and improved product quality.Better Ergonomics
Manual CNC machine tending can be very demanding and hazardous to workers. Heavy lifting along with repetitive movements can lead to injuries. While other products may be dangerous containing toxic chemicals. Automating CNC machine tending with robot manipulators creates a safer work environment for human workers. Factory robots are better equipped for repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and handling chemicals. With CNC machine tending there are also safety concerns from the machine itself. Automating machine tending with the ABB 2400 avoids human contact with machinery, greatly improving the ergonomics of a factory.Operate in Unfit Conditions for Humans
Another benefit of robotic CNC machine tending is that robotic manipulators are able to effectively function in conditions that are otherwise unfit for human workers. These may include extreme temperatures, poorly lit factories, humid environments, as well as extremely dusty environments. Robotic CNC machine tending can be implemented in most work environments without manufacturers having to be concerned about worker safety.Lower Overhead Costs
Automating CNC machine tending with handling robots will reduce overhead costs. Replacing human CNC operators with robotic ones reduces the amount of manual labor needed for manufacturing which means there are fewer labor costs. With six axis robots there are no salaries, benefits, or injury compensation costs to pay. One industrial robotic arm can tend multiple machines streamlining manufacturing equipment. Reducing production errors means less material waste, reducing material costs. Utilities can also be reduced as material handling robots do not require climate controlled conditions or excessive lighting to operate. The lower costs incurred with robotic CNC machine tending will result in a relatively quick ROI. Most manufacturers can realize their ROI within two years of automating.Greater Uptime
Robotic CNC machine tending will also result in greater uptime. Machine tending robots can operate twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. With machine loading robots there are no shift changes, breaks, or distractions to disrupt labor. Industrial robots allow for reliable and consistent operations. With greater uptime comes an increase in throughput resulting in higher productivity rates. With robotic CNC machine tending, companies can meet high consumer demand as well as accurately predict productivity.Robots Done Right is the place to start when it comes to used robots. Contact us if you are interested in buying or selling a used robot.