Robotic Press Brakes Help Small to Medium Sized Shops
Press brake automation in the field of metal fabrication has been a game-changer, particularly for smaller shops. The CoastOne RoboCone press brake, and similar machines, have significantly improved the efficiency, precision, and safety of shop operations.
RoboCone Robotic Press Brakes: An Overview
The CoastOne RoboCone Press Brake combines the capabilities of traditional press brakes with the precision and repeatability of industrial robots. The robot is programmed to load the press brake, accurately position the metal sheet, and then unload it once the bending process is complete. Press brake automation reduces labor costs, minimizes the risk of human error, and increases productivity.
How is Press Brake Automation Used?
Small to medium-sized shops often deal with custom fabrication projects that require a variety of different parts. Robotic press brakes can be quickly reprogrammed to handle different tasks, making them ideal for custom jobs.
For limited production runs, robotic press brakes offer a cost-effective solution. They eliminate the need for manual setup and operation, reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency.
Robotic Press Brakes in Local Machine Shops
Local machine shops often handle a wide range of projects, making flexibility a key requirement. Robotic press brakes allow these shops to quickly switch between different tasks, improving their ability to handle diverse projects.
Robotic Press Brakes in Specialty Manufacturing
Specialty manufacturers, such as those producing custom architectural metalwork, benefit from the precision and repeatability offered by press brake automation. These machines ensure that every building component meets the exact specifications, regardless of the complexity of the design.
How to Integrate Robotic Press Brakes into Your Smaller Shop?
Integrating robotic press brakes into a smaller metal fabrication shop can be a cost-effective move that enhances productivity and efficiency. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Start Small: Begin with a single robotic work cell. This can help optimize operations without a significant initial investment.
- Focus on Repetitive Tasks: Use robots for high-volume runs and repetitive tasks. This allows your skilled workers to focus on complex projects that require creativity and problem-solving abilities.
- Invest in Training: Ensure your team is trained to operate and maintain the new technology. This can prevent costly mistakes and downtime.
- Redesign Processes: Changing from manual operations to automation is a chance to redesign the fabricating process. This can lead to more efficient operations than merely replicating the steps used in the manual operation.
- Offline Bend Programming: Offline bend programming changes the game. Before any bend program reaches the floor, a bend simulation verifies that, yes, the operator should be able to form the part with available tooling without collisions.
- Automatic Tool Change: Add the press brake’s ability to change tools automatically, and you change the forming department dramatically. No longer must the machines produce large batches to “save on setup.” In fact, the entire department can move closer to single-piece flow and even kit-based production.
- Collaborative Robotics: An investment in collaborative automation can complement and enhance your existing press brake investments. Moreover, robot leasing and robots-as-a-service programs further reduce the financial risks.
The RoboCone Robotic Press Brake Can Transform Your Shop
Press brake automation has proven to be a boon for small to medium-sized metal fabrication shops. By improving efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing precision, these machines are helping businesses of all sizes compete in today’s fast-paced manufacturing landscape.
Remember, the goal of press brake automation is not to replace skilled workers, but to enhance their productivity and allow them to focus on tasks that require their unique skills. It’s also important to note that the initial cost of robotic press brakes can often be offset by the increased efficiency and productivity they bring.
RoboCone: Available from Automec
Automec is proud to be a certified USA Dealer of CoastOne electric press brakes. If you are interested in learning more about the CoastOne RoboCone Robotic Press Brake, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer your questions and provide you with a quote.