The UNITOWER cnc from KASTO feeds CNC machining centers automatically and efficiently.
Qualified personnel can load pallets with the appropriate clamping devices at separate workstations. The system then transports the prepared workpiece carriers automatically into the buffer storage.
The buffer function allows UNITOWER cnc to link upstream setup work to the machining center.
The plates exit the buffer storage through a rotating and transport mechanism.
The workpieces can be clamped at workstations at the front of the system and fed into one of the two machining centers. In preparation for operator-free shifts, users can buffer workpieces in the UNITOWER cnc.
Supplying workpiece carriers for CNC machining centers requires a significant amount of space. Operator-free shifts at night can only operate when there are enough prepared pallets available. KASTO, a saw and storage specialist, has solved both of these issues with its new UNITOWER cnc. Users can now supply their CNC production fully automatically and with minimal space requirements.
The UNITOWER cnc from KASTO provides a productivity benefit for users looking to automatically feed their CNC machining centers: it continuously supplies the machines with fully loaded pallets, allowing employees to prepare fixtures and workpieces simultaneously at separate workstations. Operators can load the storage tower during machine operation. This eliminates costly downtimes, and the entire system, including high-cost metalcutting machines, can operate operator-free for extended periods, such as at night, if designed for continuous operation.
Companies can connect several metalcutting machines, regardless of the manufacturer, to one tower storage system. The UNITOWER cnc can be connected fully automatically to several set-up stations and transfer stations through traversing units and roller conveyors. The overhead gantry crane (OGC) transfers the machine pallet, which is loaded with fixtures and workpieces, to a transfer trolley. The transfer trolley automatically takes them to locations assigned by the control system. Partially and fully machined workpieces are returned to intermediate or final storage in the same manner.
The system is based on KASTO's UNITOWER tower storage system. Towering at heights of up to 20 m, the system provides maximum storage space within a minimal footprint. The UNITOWER cnc can house shelves with machine pallets measuring up to 3,000 mm long and 1,500 mm wide. Depending on the load size, it can store one or two machine pallets. Due to the practical zero-point clamping system, users can select the loading height up to a maximum of 1,700 m, maximizing the available space. Another benefit: the zero-clamping system's cost-performance ratio makes it particularly appealing when compared to machine tables. With a load capacity of five tons per storage compartment, even heavy workpieces can be stored. Pallets are handled by an OGC with a crossbeam. In comparison to paternoster systems, this system offers the advantage that only the respective cassette needs to be moved, rather than the entire stock. Not only does this provide fast access times, but it also saves energy due to efficient drives.
The UNITOWER cnc is managed by KASTOlogic, KASTO's software for warehouse management and production control. The software makes sure that the necessary workpieces are provided to the correct CNC machine according to the specific order. It checks for the availability of all required NC programs and tools, monitors the production processes, calculates completion dates and determines the optimum order-handling sequence. Malfunctions can be easily and swiftly corrected through remote maintenance, ensuring reliable operation of the entire system.
The UNITOWER cnc minimizes manual handling of workpieces, some of which weigh several tons. This not only protects employees' health, but also frees up time for other tasks. With its modular design, the storage system can be expanded virtually without limitation-a major advantage for growing companies. KASTO utilized extensive experience from its own production when developing the UNITOWER cnc. This makes the tower storage system a sustainable automation solution for manufacturers in all industries.
Authored by KASTO Inc.
For more information contact:
KASTO Inc.
3002 Venture Court
Export, PA 15632
724-325-5600
sales@us.kasto.com
www.kasto.com