The adoption of robot-tended bending operations is not only providing a reduction in labour costs for this manufacturer, but thanks to the system’s integral automatic tool changer (ATC), has cut set-up times from 45 minutes to just 90 seconds in some instances.

Installed in February 2016, the machine has been set to work producing a range of different components, some of which are extremely complex, for industries that include telecommunications, construction, food and pharmaceuticals. 

“With the HG ARs the operator simply pushes the button and walks away to start doing other things, such as programming new jobs,” director Ben Guntrip, son of the company’s founder Rhid said. “We have already started using the HG ARs overnight, unattended. Ultimately it has changed the way we do things, as well as the way we quote. Taking labour out of the equation through automation is the only way to level the playing field.” 

The six-axis robot offers a wide range of motion capabilities to perform all part loading, bending and unloading operations. During bending, a potentiometer back-gauge system with additional side gauge compensates for any deviation when the workpiece is placed in the die. This ensures that parts are produced consistently with maximum accuracy.

Stand F38