Automated Piston Production Cell

Partners in THINC showcases their collaborative efforts through a manufacturing cell that demonstrates the automated production of a complete Op 10/Op 20 aluminum piston. The multi-function capabilities of turning, milling, drilling, tapping, and boring also make this an efficient cell for the machining of a wide range of parts from aerospace and automotive to medical in a very compact space.

Two Okuma Millac 33T vertical lathes feature external program select capability, device net I/O, chilled ballscrews, Absolute Scales, a right angled tool to drill the pin bore, and an Anybus robot loader interface. Each Millac33T has a 1x4 meter footprint with special automatic doors for easy access by the ABB robot. Gosiger Automation sets up the entire system to work flawlessly through the power of THINC.

The tool data system will tie to the Zoller tool presetter through the OSP-P control and is prepped with auto gauging by a Renishaw MP-400 probe. Caron Engineering, Inc provides the AutoComp program for quick statistical process capability (SPC) and for the control and Zoller presetter to communicate in real time. Sandvik and Kennametal tooling provide turning and rotating tools for the necessary machining. ToolBoss and ISCAR Matrix tool storage cabinets manage redundant and necessary tool replacements. A Marposs quicksetter will be used to monitor part size for accuracy. The Exact Boss MRP system will show factory process flow and capture production times, material costs, operational flow and other real time data.