In the present day, with the rise of the entire manufacturing sector, productivity and cost-cutting have become critical. This can be done through systems such as automatic part handling systems for CNC machines. Eliminating the need for direct operator interaction with the loading or unloading of parts, such systems enable increased production speed and reduced human error. This post will discuss the different types of such systems, and their benefits.

What is an Automatic Part Handling System?

Automatic part handling systems — which transfer parts into and out of the CNC machine, as well as handling them with respect to other points in their production line — can be seen in long production runs with no operator intervention. These make use of physical systems, such as robots, conveyors, grippers, and other mechanical and electronic components.

System Types of Automatic Part Handling

There are different types of automatic part handling systems depending on the type of application and the complexity of production process:

• • Conveyor systems: Conveyor systems are used for transferring parts between different machines or between the machine and the warehouse. Types of conveyor systems include belt, roller, and chain.

• • Robotic Devices: Programmable industrial robots provide the flexibility to handle parts differently. These were in the context of loading and unloading parts having intricate geometries and dog-boarding operations like inspection and packaging.

• • Gripper systems: Grippers are accessories on robots and other handling systems that enable them to pick up and hold parts. Depending on the type and material of the part, grippers can be pneumatically, mechanically, or magnetically designed.

• • Module: Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): AS/RS are the automated systems utilized for the automated storage and retrieval of parts from the warehouse and can be integrated with the automatic part handling systems of the CNC machines.

Benefits of Automatic Part Handling

These have many advantages

• • More Productivity: No machine downtime for manual loading and unloading means more production time and more productivity.

• • Less Cost: No human labor for repetitive tasks and no human error means lower cost.

• • Better Quality: Parts handled by automated systems are accurate and error free so better quality end product.

• • Safer: No direct operator involvement in hazardous process means safer workplace.

• • High Flexibility: Robotic systems can adapt to changes in part type and production process.

Practical Examples

• • In car production lines, robots load heavy engine and body parts into CNC machines.

• • In electronics industry, conveyor systems move electronic boards between different assembly machines.

• • In small machining shops, simple pneumatic grippers load small parts into CNC lathes and milling machines.

Conclusion

Automatic part handling systems play an important role in increasing productivity and reducing production costs in various industries. Choosing the right type of these systems depends on the specific needs and conditions of each production unit. With the advancement of technology, these systems are expected to become more complex and efficient and play a greater role in automating production processes.