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VMC automation Robot handling boosts 24/7 production on DMG Mori VMC at Optimal

Source: Whitehouse Machine Tools 4 min Reading Time

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High-precision subcontractor Optimal Manufacturing has boosted its machining capacity with a bespoke robotic handling cell retrofitted to a DMG Mori 5-axis machining centre at its Redditch facility.

Mr Slimm at the control of the automated DMG Mori CMX 70 U VMC. The robot enclosure with safety fence and light curtain may be seen in the background.(Source: Whitehouse Machine Tools)
Mr Slimm at the control of the automated DMG Mori CMX 70 U VMC. The robot enclosure with safety fence and light curtain may be seen in the background.
(Source: Whitehouse Machine Tools)

A bespoke robotic handling cell has been retrofitted to a DMG Mori 5-axis vertical machining centre (VMC) at the Redditch factory of Optimal Manufacturing, a contract machining company that was established in December 2022. Supplied by Whitehouse Machine Tools, the Tezmaksan Cube Box is unusual for a 6-axis robot cell in that it is designed to exchange components mounted in vices on pallets, rather than the billets, castings or forgings themselves.

Joint owners and directors of Optimal, Will Cooper and Tom Slimm, decided to adopt this manner of automation, which requires a robot of 70 kg capacity, due to the frequent need to hold tolerances of less than 10 microns. In their opinion, it would not be possible to achieve the required level of repeatability if the individual components were to be handled, especially if they need to visit a turnover station prior to a second operation.

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