Trimming system helps plastics and composites manufacturers

A flexible, cost effective robotic router trimming system helps plastics and composites manufacturers trim more quality parts per hour.

The new RoboTrim* RT-1900 robotic router trimming system, from KMT Robotic Solutions Inc. (KMT), Auburn Hills, Mich., USA, designed specifically for the plastics and composites industries, also improves uptime and increases employee safety.

“The RT-1900 is our largest standard machine yet for high throughput automated trimming of plastics and composites,” said Routing Systems Sales Manager Paul Schuch. “It compliments our other standard trimming solutions.”

The RT-1900 standard model features an inverted, rail-mounted KMT AccuTrim* R-110 robot inside a steel enclosure with side access door and safety interlocks. The rail provides the robot with the ability to move up to 4.5 meters. The system’s two-sided 19-foot rotating servo table can support up to 700 pounds on each side and accommodate part sizes up to 13 feet long and 5 feet wide. The two position table allows for higher throughput by giving operators the ability to load or unload parts on the outside of the cell while the robot is trimming on the inside. The RT-1900’s ergonomic design keeps the Cycle Start, Emergency Stop and other operator controls within easy reach, while the system’s light curtains and other standard safety features keep the operator out of harms way.

KMT’s RouterWare* application software saves valuable time by simplifying the programming process, while FANUC’s Collision Guard software saves money by protecting the robot and fixture in the event of a collision. This feature protects the entire robot and tooling and uses the robot servo system to predict and monitor motor torque to quickly detect collisions. It protects the robot in any mode – jogging, teaching, running production and touching up programs. Collision Guard eliminates the need for a safety clutch in many applications, reducing maintenance costs and downtime potential, while eliminating repeatability concerns due to safety clutch mechanics.

The RT-1900 system can be customized to meet the plastics or composites manufacturer’s unique needs. A variety of spindle sizes (up to 10hp) and options (automatic tool change, single and double-ended) are available to ensure the desired cut quality and cycle time. KMT’s RouterVac high volume vacuum system is for part hold down and chip removal vacuum system from the trimming area. Optional software packages like KMT’s System Calibration Tools enable users to quickly and accurately achieve process repeatability, while KMT/FANUC TrimPro** software allows users to program the robots while the system is in production and optimize cycle time by creating simulated work cells. Customers can also take advantage of KMT’s programming assistance, training classes and in-house fixture department. Note: On-site support to setup the System Calibration Tools after installation is required and is available as an option from KMT.

KMT Robotic Solutions was formed in December of 2006 with the union of KMT Cutting Systems in Ronneby, Sweden and Robotic Production Technology in Auburn Hills, Mich. KMT Robotic Solutions has more than 1500 systems installed around the world and more than 30 years experience developing, designing, building, servicing and supporting robotic automation solutions for manufacturing customers. With locations in Europe, the US and China, KMT is strategically positioned to serve the global market.

* RoboTrim, AccuTrim and RouterWare are registered trademarks of KMT Robotic Solutions Inc., a leading producer of advanced production solutions in Waterjet Cutting, Precision Grinding, and Robotic Solutions for engineered products. Industries served include aerospace, appliance, automotive, composites, bath/shower, consumer goods, marine and plastics. KMT creates value through precision – from design and delivery to the customer’s end product. KMT is traded on the Nordic Mid-cap list of the Stockholm Stock Exchange.

** KMT/FANUC TrimPro was developed by KMT Robotic Solutions and GE FANUC Robotics, which is now known as GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms.

Stop by and visit the KMT booth at the 2007 Composites & PolyCon Show later this week. See the information listed below regarding a presentation during the conference and the new RoboTrim* RT-1900 robotic router trimming system will be introduced that targets the Plastics and Composites market.

“High Performance Composites Manufacturing Techniques: Robotic Trimming for Maximum Efficiency”

Hear the following presentation by Paul Schuch Routing Systems Sales Manager, KMT Robotic Solutions on Thursday, Oct. 18 in Room 20 from 11:00 – 11:55 a.m.

Composites and Plastics Manufacturers using flexible trimming systems gain a competitive advantage by meeting the demands of their customers for higher quality and productivity. This multi-media presentation will incorporate the benefits of using robotic water jet and router automation in composite products trimming applications and showcase real world case studies of companies implementing and using the systems. Specific case study examples will be shared to show how manufacturers are benefiting from the use of flexible trimming robotic methods to help increase production, save money and improve quality of the end product. By automating these processes, plastics and composites product manufacturers lower the cost in their labor-intensive operation and improve the working environment for their employees. Manufacturers benefit from improved quality of their parts by reducing the reject rate and making the trimming more repeatable and consistent. In addition, manufacturers see increased throughput due to the automation of the process. Session participants will learn about the benefits of implementing this technology. In addition, information will be shared about key software technologies and improved hardware that were recently introduced to make automated trimming of plastics precise and accurate.

Read a recent press release about - KMT Robotic Solutions and Branson Ultrasonics team up to create cost effective, automated soft part automated ultrasonic trimming solutions.

American Management Certification Programs

Supervision - Getting More Done Through Delegation
CEU Credits: 2 - Shows you how to delegate responsibility more effectively so you'll have more time to manage—and you and your employees will have the opportunity to take on more challenging tasks.

Click here to view other current news.