Following on from two successful process automation projects, TF Automation was commissioned to provide a solution to automate a time consuming parts-handling manual process for a world leading manufacturer of fasteners supplying the aerospace industry.
Having already commissioned and installed two machines, the manufacturer wanted to work with TF to automate a further process within their overall production process.
The manual hot forming process involved an operator performing three operations by hand to thread individual fasteners. The process was slow and laborious with the opportunity for operator error and poor consistency.
The key was to design and engineer an automated process to improve output efficiency and maintain consistent quality which is crucial in the aerospace industry. TF’s in-house team designed and manufactured a bespoke machine using a robot to carry out the product handling task. One of the remits was also to ensure that if the robot failed, the process could still be carried out manually, therefore the machine was designed with enough space around it to allow for this.
This automated hot forming process, now carried out by robot, produces around 66% more parts per hour than the original manual process. Due to the production efficiencies achieved by this installation and the improvement in output as well as quality and consistency, a second machine is being commissioned.
The machine is now fully commissioned and installed within the production process, enabling our client to work quicker and smarter and realise the improved output efficiencies. Once both machines are up and running, output will be at 4 times that of the original manual system.
TF Automation are specialist engineers, who design and manufacture process automation solutions supporting manufacturers across a wide range of industries using the latest technologies. Focussing on consistency, improved production efficiency, precision and quality, TF Automation has delivered projects using a wide range of disciplines including robotics, pneumatics, automated assembly and pick and place.
