Robotics

MAMCO’s use of robotics is a huge step forward in precision engineering. When we undertook a case study to eliminate the shortcomings of manual operation, including excessive time, machine utilization, various quality levels, part returns, and labor costs, the solution came in the form of robotics.

In both the “in-feed” side for insert placement and the “out-feed” side of parts removal, robotics plays a key role in MAMCO’s innovative approach to custom injection molding. Robotics enhances part quality reliability by enabling technicians to construct arm tooling in house and allow cycle consistency.

A FANUC robot is equipped with the end-of-arm tooling to pick and place eight metal stampings into the mold. The robot picks up the parts and runner following molding. Optical Vision Systems assist the process to verify insert placement and part integrity by having the robot present finished parts in front of cameras prior to sending them to a good-product chute. Defective parts are thereby set aside.

For example, MAMCO presently has two separate part numbers for an automotive housing requiring the same metal stamping. The process runs both parts on two different machines, each with two operators – one for loading stampings and running the machine, the other for inspecting product and boxing. Average cycle time runs between 40 and 45 seconds using 12 different operators through a 24-hour period for both requirements.

Robotics enables one injection molding machine to run both part numbers by running an average cycle time of 22 seconds. MAMCO additionally reduced operators from twelve to three by using two machines across three shifts – resulting in an annual labor rate savings of $108,900. And by utilizing optical vision systems, MAMCO was able to improve quality by replacing the human element out of inspections.

If you would like find out more about what MAMCO can do for your organization and the considerable savings your company could realize, then we invite you to contact us.