Automation has become quite the buzzword, but there is such a thing as too much automation and poorly executed automation.
Recognizing what your grinder needs and when it needs it is important. Use the six questions below to help find the right answer for your grinder automation needs.
Does your grinder meet your current and projected production volume?
Boosting production is one of the most basic reasons for automating a grinder. Generally, shorter cycle times require more automation, and longer cycle times require less. But how can you figure your cycle time? The easiest way is to calculate your production volume by multiplying a few simple figures:
- The number of workdays per year
- Amount of time worked per day (represented as seconds, rather than minutes or hours)
- Your efficiency rate
And then dividing by the number of parts required each year. You can then use that figure to determine your cycle time.
Hard data like this can help you determine if you need to invest in grinder automation.
Do you have access to qualified workers?
The lack of a skilled workforce is a challenge faced throughout manufacturing. Automation can solve this challenge by eliminating procedures and the need for more operators. Automation can also expand the functionality of your grinding operation without increasing your workforce.
Do you need to improve quality control?
Quality is becoming more important to everyone’s customers, and automation updates can help meet those challenges. Upgrades like robotics, part sensors and conveyors can improve quality control, reducing costly issues in the field and improving customer satisfaction.
What ergonomic issues do your operators face?
Repetitive movements, awkward postures and prolonged equipment operation are cited as being detrimental to operators’ overall health and well-being. Rigorous manual tasks can be simplified or eliminated with automation options like infeed conveyors, robotics and load/unload systems.
Are proper safety features in place?
Worker safety is a priority for everyone. Updates like guarding can provide the protection your operators need.
What is your budget?
While boosting your bottom line in the long run, automation upgrades do cost money. It’s important to know what you can afford before moving forward.
GCH Machinery has the experience and expertise to help you answer these questions – our engineering team will work with you to determine which of our many automation options will suit your application and your budget. We meet each customer’s exact needs with a solution that is robust, imaginative and reliable.
Automation options are available for a variety of brands and types of grinding machines, including centerless grinders, surface grinders, double disc grinders, ID grinders, OD / cylindrical grinders and microcentric grinders.
Contact us today to take advantage of our expertise.