Page 29 - MetalForming October 2019

Peitz advises companies to opt for manufacturer-independent automa- tion systems that can be employed in conjunction with machines manufac- tured at different times by different companies.
“A loading and unloading system compatible with all laser cutting sys- tems ensures maximum investment security,” he says.
Modularity is another factor when selecting automated material-flow solutions. A system of modular, ver- satile elements can be expanded, meaning that fabricators receive a tai- lored system that can be upgraded at any time with the addition of new components.
Once fabricators have enhanced their productivity and become more competitive through initial automation processes, they then have the flexibility to increase the level of automation and expand their production systems through the addition of various mod- ules, reasons Baudach.
Ask the Right Questions to Get the Right Automation Answer
For Remmert’s part, “we always take a look at the entire process, not just the capacity the cutting machine sys- tems are running at,” says Baudach.
This means analyzing each existing layout and the fabricator’s production requirements. Numerous factors come into play here. What level of productivity is the customer looking to achieve? Which materials must be processed? And in what quantity? What staffing capacities are available? And how can the machinery be arranged most effi- ciently? With these questions answered, a material-flow concept is drawn up.
The goal: “Continuous flow of sheet metal across the board—from incom- ing goods through processing and onto outgoing goods,” explains Baudach.
Achieving the reality of an agile material flow may entail solutions rang- ing from simple handling to fully auto- matic operation.
Baudach cites Remmert’s LaserFlex system as an example of a fully auto- mated process, where the system
simultaneously can load and unload raw materials from as many as four laser cutting machines—at speeds of 60 sec. per machine—no matter the manufacturer of those machines.
“This enables companies to ensure that their high-speed laser cutting machines run at maximum capacity,” says Peitz.
Adding a material-storage tower may deliver even greater efficiency, as warehouse automation is a suitable solution for storing raw materials and buffer stock that has undergone the cutting process.
“If the finished parts are stored at night and sorted by staff the next morn- ing, laser cutting machines can operate around the clock, which shortens return on investment,” Peitz explains.
By adding automated storage and a conveyor, finished parts can be sorted by hand after cutting or removal from a tower as part of a simple process.
Central Control Brings Benefits
Managing and operating all of these processes centrally adds to the system’s functionality.
“You can have the best automation solution around, but it’s not much good if the information required for effective and agile material flow is either not available or not utilized correctly,” explains Baudach.
Seamlessly integrated software, such as Remmert’s Smart Control, can han- dle the entire production and materi- al-handling process.
As we’ve read, automation of sheet metal processing offers much potential. However, before this potential can be harnessed, material flows must be aligned with individual production processes. This is how production effi- ciency can be enhanced.
“Users should bank on manufactur- er-independent systems that offer mod- ular expansion options and thus pro- vide an innovative form of investment security,” concludes Baudach. “This helps customers remain flexible.” MF
Article supplied by Remmert GmbH, Lohne, Germany; www.remmert.de/en/, e-mail info@remmert.de.
Booth D45750
Fabrication: Laser Cutting
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