Products - Robotic Projects/electropolishing cell

Make largerMontip were commissioned by a leading medical devices multi-national to automate the electropolishing stage of manufacturing. A jig holding the product was to be passed through a cycle with several stages of cleaning, electropolishing and drying. To move the jigs we installed a long-reach Fanuc M710CL robot with a mechanical gripper head designed and built by Montip.

Make largerThe cycle details for each type of product vary. To allow for this the robot runs a dynamic cycle. A barcode scaner reads the product type for each jig and adjusts the process accordingly for each step of the cycle. This means that up to nine different product types can run simultaneously without any instructions from the operator.

 

Make largerThe user interface is a GE ProFace touch screen. Here the user can monitor production, define new product types and modify existing types, view statistics, etc. Passwords allow for variable levels of access (operator, technician, supervisor/engineer).

The cell is completely enclosed and secured by a double trap-key system. To enter a user must take out the key from the Make largeroperator panel (disabling the robot) and use this key to open the door. The entire safety system is controlled by an ASI Safe controller running independently of the robot. This is linked to the emergency stops, safety sensors and the trap-key.

The end result is fully automatic process capable of running non-stop, 24/7. Operators are redeployed in greater value-added processes and kept away from potentially hazardous substances and machinery.

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