Transfer lines are suitable for high volume production. If there are requirements for limited part flexibility, a shorter cycle time and if space is an issue, then these requirements can be met. Transfer lines are also indispensible for heavy-duty metal cutting or if high precision machining has to be performed.
The individual machining sequences are divided into several stations arranged in one line (sequential) and connected with a rigid transport system. The single stations can only perform one machining operation as previously defined. The downtime of one station causes the whole line to come to a halt and thus the output goes down to zero.
Transfer lines systems are constructed from modular units. This design ensures that the Transfer lines can be installed quickly in their final position. The individual stations are so-called "hook" stations, and this enables the line to be started up one station at a time.
The main advantages of the standardisation of the slide units are, for instance:
- smaller stocks of spare parts
- greater flexibility in conversions
- simplified maintenance and overhaul.
The modular slide units can be single-axis, cross-slide, or rotating-axis units. As line extensions we can also offer high-speed triple-axis units with moving speeds up to 40 m/min; these are used, for instance, with a motor spindle or a 6-spindle revolver head.
The main pipes as well as the electric power rails and the principal cable duct run via the electrical cabinet. The single-sided installation allows good access from the op-posite (free) side for maintenance and other purposes.
The control routes are short because of the control plates on the jigs.
Within the Transfer lines, the loading and unloading section forms an important functional unit together with the work-piece transporting section, which is designed as stroke-step transport and Plant mechanically. It works from a slide unit with a ball-thread drive from a servomotor.
The shavings are removed in the central section or under the floor.
