Cost-Effective CNC Automation for Low-Volume Parts (Video)

Most people think CNC automation only applies to high-volume production. Well it’s great for high-volume, that’s for sure. But if you’re running low-volume production of a family of parts, CNC automation can work wonders for your productivity too. In this video I’m showing a GENOS L200 CNC lathe with an AUTOPLUSTEK gantry loading and unloading system. This cost-effective system makes it easy to run a family of parts, not just one part, in high volume.

Cost-effective CNC Automation for Low-Volume Parts

CNC automation for low-volume parts IS possible. Check out the video to learn why you should address these key elements in your system to make it work best:

• Agile Workholding: It’s key to have agile workholding. If the workholding doesn’t fit with your whole family of parts, make sure you have a quick-change chuck or a collet system that allows you to go from one part to another quickly. This means you won’t have to spend a lot of time in changeover and set up, which kills that productivity you’re going for.
• Vision Systems: Add vision systems that allow you to identify which part you’re loading into the CNC machine, so the right program is pulled up automatically. Then, when that part is loaded into your workholding, you’re ready to make the part immediately.

This type of system allows you to run hours of very low, or unattended operation. You can also have one person running multiple cells in the same configuration. CNC automation systems are supplied as a complete package by Okuma, and are fully supported by your Okuma distributor both on the application and the service side. Feel free to comment below or contact us with questions – we’re here to help.

Jeff Estes is Director of Partners in THINC, Okuma America Corporation.