Robotic CNC Machine Tending Automation Increases Production and ROI
Swivellink overcame labor shortages, boosted output by 33%, and delivered fast ROI by automating ROBODRILL machine tending with FANUC robots.
Challenges
- Needed to increase part production in a limited space.
- Experiencing a labor shortage.
- The part needed to be deburred on its many edges, including on the underside.
Results
1.5 minutes saved per part
$1.74 saved per part:
1500 parts per week (2 shifts, 5 days)
$2610 saved per week
33 weeks ROI
Story
Swivellink manufacturers mounting systems used for vision systems, cycle start buttons, sensors, light monitors and robotic applications in Northwest Ohio. Parts are machined on two ROBODRILLS for 20-24 hours a day. However, the company was facing a shortage of labor to operate the machines and needed to boost production to keep up with demand.
APT Manufacturing Solutions, a FANUC-certified robotics integrator, implemented an automated machine tending solution using LR Mates with the ROBODRILLS to load and unload parts. The automation has resulted in a 33% increase in production efficiency and an ROI of just 33 weeks. The CNC cycle time did actually increase by 20 seconds with the FANUC robot, but the total cycle time actually decreased by 1:30 over an 8-hour shift because of the robot’s excellent accuracy and reliability. The number of parts produced over the 8-hour shift increased from 100 to over 150 with the robotics application.
We're able to get more product out with the same amount of labor.
Roger Sanders Product Developer – SwivellinkFANUC Products Used
LR Mate 200iD
The FANUC LR Mate 200iD is a compact 6 axis robot with best-in-class robot weight-load capacity, IP67 protection, and outstanding FANUC quality.
- Max Payload:
- 7 kg
- Reach:
- 717 mm
M-10iD/16S
The FANUC M‑10iD/16S is a compact short‑arm 6‑axis robot designed for tight workspaces, offering high versatility and support for top‑mount applications.
- Max Payload:
- 16 kg
- Reach:
- 1103 mm
Meet APT, FANUC Authorized System Integrator
APT Manufacturing Solutions has been providing high-tech solutions to manufacturing problems for our customers since 1996. Founded initially in a 2500 square foot facility as machining and machine building, APT is now manufacturing in a 100,000 square foot facility with state-of-the art equipment, technology, and people. Our operations are ISO 9001 certified. We are an authorized FANUC robotic integrator and certified at the highest level (V), as well as being an A3 Certified Robot Integrator.
About Swivellink
Swivellink manufacturers mounting systems used for vision systems, cycle start buttons, sensors, light monitors and robotic applications in Northwest Ohio.
