Hydraulic cylinder manufacturers look for continuous improvement for their processes. These improvements are driven by the need to quickly produce high-quality cylinders at competitive price. To get higher throughput, repeatable quality, and less scrap in cylinder manufacturing, Acieta introduces the FastARC Port Welder (PW) robotic welding cell.
The first-of-its-kind welding system is purpose built for port welding on hydraulic cylinder barrels, designed in collaboration with a cylinder manufacturer. The system features a FANUC 6-axis robot arm, unique multi-function end of arm tooling, and a Ferris wheel positioner with DMT parts load/unload. The FastARC PW is available with Miller®, Lincoln® Electric or Fronius welding equipment.
Consistent welds
With the FastARC PW, port welds are consistently repeatable, of high quality, and accurate throughout the entire shift. Welding on a cylindrical surface demands skill and finesse, attributes that the FastARC PW robot is trained to execute reliably in the correct location all day, thus eliminating errors, scrap, and rework.
The FastARC PW has built-in parametric programming, so operators just enter the cylinder barrel dimension and specifications, and the system calculates the robot’s path. No additional programming or calculations are needed. This is especially helpful when changing from one part number to another or programming a new part number.
“Having the settings already programmed into the system prevents people from tweaking the robot’s path to their own preferences, process specifications and robot paths are set by supervisors and process engineers.” says John Burg, Founder at Acieta.
Continuous operation
The Ferris wheel positioner allows operators to load parts while the robot is welding another cylinder barrel on the other side. The robot works in a separate, protected space to keep employees safe. The robot runs continually when cylinder barrels are unloaded and loaded. Ports are provided to the robot via a gravity rack.
Users of the FastARC PW increase throughput by reducing weld cycle time, so they can make more cylinders in less time, this keeps production costs globally competitive.
“Since implementing Acieta’s FastARC PW, we have seen a 90% increase in productivity and a 40% reduction in production time. Our clients are impressed with the consistency and quality of the welded ports, and we are thrilled with the savings in labor and costs.” says Dan Van Eldik, CEO at Prince Manufacturing.
Skilled welders are scarce, so assign them to more challenging jobs while the FastARC PW does the dull and repetitive port welding. The system is easy to learn and operate for most operators regardless of their welding skill.
For more information about the FastARC Port Welder, visit acieta.com/pw or call 844-4-ACIETA (844-422-4382).
About Acieta
A leader in the robotics industry for over 40 years, Acieta provides a wide range of robotically automated solutions and services for the manufacturing industry. With locations in Waukesha, Wis., and Council Bluffs, Iowa, Acieta has integrated more than 5,500 automation systems for customers across the United States, Mexico and Canada. As part of its mission to be a true partner to its customer base, Acieta is committed to solving challenges facing all manufacturers, such as lowering costs, increasing productivity and addressing labor shortfalls.
Learn more at:www.acieta.com.
Acieta is a leading FANUC Authorized System Integrator and member of the A3 Certified Robot Integrator group.
