Maltec’s automated machining cell by John Hart is now commissioned and running.
Maltec Engineering is taking full advantage of the state-of-the-art John Hart automated machining cell to boost their manufacturing capacity.
The automated machining cell integrates a Mazak Variaxis C-600 simultaneous 5-axis vertical machining center with an Agile Flex 35D CNC automation system.
The cell is designed to run unmanned for extended periods of time, manufacturing components for the aquaculture industry around the clock without the need to hire additional and hard-to-find machine operators.
The Agile Flex 35D drawer system handles 96 parts, however production can be infinitely continuous as parts can be replenished from behind the unit without interrupting the robotic automation or the machining process.
Because Maltec Engineering wanted to take advantage of the immediate availability of an in-stock Mazak Variaxis C-600, John Hart created custom modifications to supplement two optional extras not specified on the available machine.
A John Hart built vertical side-access automation door was retrofitted to the Mazak, enabling robot entry from the side of the machine while preserving full manual access from the front.
As the machine did not include a native robot interface, communication between the robot and the machine was hardwired, with program selection managed via file sharing between the Mazak CNC and the AgileGo! controls.
Custom gripper jaws were designed and supplied to suit the unique geometry of a component used in the aquaculture industry.
John Hart also supplied a bespoke fixture for the machine tool, which lacked through-table services. To accommodate this, the robot end-of-arm tool was modified with pneumatic controls to open and close the fixture during part loading and unloading.
Take a look at the Mazak Variaxis C-600 specifications.
Take a look at the Agile Flex 35D specifications.
Maltec’s General Manager Lindsay Malley pictured in front of the John Hart automated machining cell..