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From: 中国锻压协会

Automation of machining centers: Schuler Group’s new LoadMaster offers flexible system solutions for feeding and linking machine tools

The seamless equipping of a machine tool is a key aspect of the production process. Schuler Automation has recently developed a new generation of linear systems, called the LoadMaster, which enable fast feeding and linking of machine tools with a minimum of staff. The system’s particular strength is its high degree of flexibility, enabling it to be adapted to varying production requirements.

Schuler Automation in Gemmingen, Germany, has been creating equipment for the automated feeding and linking of machine tools for over 20 years. “The LoadMaster range is the beginning of a new chapter for us,” explains Daniel Kost, Head of Machine Tool Automation at Schuler Automation. “Their flexibility really pays off for our customers. The system also offers numerous additional application possibilities compared with the previous models,” adds Daniel Kost.

There are two basic variants available: the LoadMaster Compact is a quickly available modular solution for the automation of single or multiple machine tools of similar construction. The LoadMaster Flex is a freely configurable system which offers numerous variation possibilities and can be used to link differing machine tools. It can also handle Euro pallets with raw materials.

The LoadMaster Compact is designed for weights of up to 1.5 metric tons and workpiece sizes of up to 1.40 meters in diameter. The basic version offers one machine tool connection and one set-up facility. Further pallet or set-up facilities can be added at any time – either as complete or semi modules. The number of machines linked together can also be increased as desired.

All the above features are also provided by the freely configurable LoadMaster Flex system, with the added benefit that also varying machine types can be linked together. Depending on the particular size, the system can also process individual weights of up to ten metric tons and workpieces with a diameter of up to two meters.

Fast return on investment cost

Both variants offer all the basic advantages of automatic feeding: holder pallets are equipped and parts clamped while the machine is still running. They are then kept in the storage unit until the system automatically loads them into the machine for processing. “This offers a whole range of production benefits,” explains Daniel Kost, and adds: “Automatic loading means there is no waiting time at the machine, enabling it to be easily operated without staff at any time of day or night. The entire production logistics system is also simplified if several machines can be linked with the aid of the LoadMaster.”

Low staffing requirements, or even unmanned production, coupled with set-up processes during ongoing production – the LoadMaster can raise the competitiveness of any manufacturing system. Daniel Kost estimates that users will see a fast return on their investment.

Flexible system design

The core idea during development was to tailor the system as perfectly as possible to the needs and applications of users. From now on, for example, the control system is freely configurable in the main settings “Basic” to “Comfort”. The clarity and adaptability of the system allow intuitive and fast operation. Even in the Basic version, users can set a variety of parameters for every pallet – such as the sequence and time window for processing or the accessibility of individual machines and set-up facilities. A further benefit of the LoadMaster is its configurable rack settings, which allow the processing of various workpiece heights and avoid dead space. The system was also designed in such a way that it can be extended at any time. It is also possible to change the rack configuration or control system functions – should there be any change in requirements.

Set-up facility offers numerous possibilities

“The set-up facility has been ergonomically designed and can be adapted in a number of ways, explains Daniel Kost. Even in the Basic version, the pallets can be turned and locked in four 90-degree positions, while the operator is also protected by a reach-through guard. Further possible features include hydraulic workpiece clamping with automatic pressure oil provision, a motorized turn for robot feeding, as well as height and tilt settings.

Daniel Kost sees numerous market opportunities for the systems made in Germany: “Machine manufacturers acting as general contractors for the initial equipping of production facilities can achieve much higher output figures for their customers with the aid of the LoadMaster. But also many direct customers of Schuler with machining centers would benefit by fitting or retrofitting our new system,” states Daniel Kost.