Metal Forming and Assembly: New Line Created with Force Range and Stroke Flexibility for the Past, Present, and Future

Challenge

A machine builder for a tier-one automotive supplier of chassis assemblies wanted to eliminate all hydraulics on a new automated metal forming and assembly machine. The machine would require metal forming press servo actuators, clamping actuators, metal shearing, and shuttle actuators, but could not use electro-mechanical actuators due to force requirements and shock loads inherent with the application.

The new line required actuators that could provide the force range and stroke flexibility to produce both the current OEM product and a new product at higher volumes. These actuators needed to be robust and seamlessly integrate with Rockwell Automation servo motors and drives.

Kyntronics Solution

  • Electric linear actuators with position and force feedback and servo control of position and force for the assembly, clamping, and bending stations.
  • Actuators used Rockwell Automation motors and drives with Kyntronics AOI.

Customer Benefits

  • The actuators eliminated the space-consuming HPU, manifolds, valves, and hoses, helping to contribute to a machine footprint that was 50% smaller than the previous production line.
  • The ability of the actuators to operate independently with cycle overlap allowed the new machine to produce 25% more parts per shift vs. the previous machine.
  • The programmability of the actuators provides flexibility to handle multiple part variations with improved process control – using position and force control, ensuring optimal cycle times.
  • Elimination of the hydraulics on the new machine resulted in an environment that is cleaner, less noisy, more energy efficient, and requires far less maintenance.

Application Requirements

Stroke: 4.5” – 12”
Speed: 2 – 6.8 in/sec
Force: 5,700 – 23,000 lbf.

Industries

  • Auto / Truck

Product Used:

  • Hybrid Linear Actuator – Actuator Only
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Kyntronics has extensive experience amongst various applications and industries. Contact us to discuss your needs.
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