Automatic workchangers on VMCs (vertical machining centers) facilitate the setup/tear-down of one mold cavity/component while another is being manufactured. This can significantly increase the spindle utilization of the machine—and dramatically impact the machine utilization and throughput on a single spindle machine.

The addition of a pallet changer also permits the unattended operation of the machine during nights and weekends—further reducing costs, increasing productivity and cutting leadtimes.
Multiple part work changers (dedicated to a single machine) are another means of increasing the utilization of a machine by automating the flow of work a larger number and variety of work to/from the machine. Typically, these kinds of systems can be provided by the machine tool builder—or from a third-party vendor.

Robotic loading offers a technique that could be used to automate the flow of work to/from a single machine (milling machine or EDM machine)—or multiple machines—depending upon the application. This approach can significantly increase the utilization of a machine (or grouping of machines) and dramatically impact the utilization and throughput.

Dependent operations (i.e.: graphite electrode manufacturing and EDM’ing) could readily be combined into a lean production cell utilizing the robot as the common material handling component. Advanced software would manage the follow of electrodes and mold material to insure high productivity and performance to schedule. The addition of a robotic material handling system provides for a large (and expandable) queue of work pieces and material that further enhances the unattended operation of the machine (or machines) during nights and weekends.