Machines shops, small and large alike, struggle with increasing throughput, decreasing costs and improving quality. Automating CNC machining processes can help achieve all three–the trifecta of productivity improvements. But many shop owners are afraid automation will be too costly or complex. That doesn’t have to be the case. Automation comes in various forms, as simple as barfeeding and parts catching, and as complex as robotic integration and pallet systems. Even the smallest shops can benefit from some level of automation, and with the potential for productivity increases of 30 per cent or more, there’s a lot of upside to automating CNC machining processes. But before you flip the switch on that bar feeder or robot, check out the surrounding tools and processes. Make sure they are compatible to your level and type of automation and appropriate for the parts you will cut now, and in the future. If you address these areas first, you’ll create a stable process and improve productivity. There are five key considerations to take into account that will minimize process pains and boost productivity gains. Download the pdf to learn more.
