Robot-assisted CNC Machining with the Mazak Integrex i-400ST
Automated solutions are increasingly being used in modern CNC manufacturing to improve productivity, process stability and cost-effectiveness. The integration of industrial robots helps to standardize processes, reduce non-productive time and ensure consistently high quality. The combination of the Mazak Integrex i-400ST with the SherpaLoader®T25 enables fully automated Machining, where all steps from the raw part to the finished part are coordinated.
Material supply and preparation on the Mazak Integrex i-400ST
The workpieces are supplied via a Table Trolleys. The SherpaLoader®T25 is equipped with a three-jaw gripper for raw parts and a two-jaw gripper for finished parts. With the camera-based recognition system, the robot detects the raw parts directly on the Raw Material Staging. This reduces the need for manual material provision. At the same time, camera-based detection makes it easier to adapt production to changing production conditions and component geometries. This reduces set-up time and increases flexibility in the production process. Once the first Part has been detected, the robot arm grips the blank and transfers it to the alignment station. There, the position is precisely corrected so that it can be clamped in the system reproducibly and without positional deviations. This precise preparation minimizes tolerance errors and contributes to consistently high component quality. The robot then transports the prepared blank into the work area of the Mazak Integrex i-400ST.
Robot-assisted CNC machining with the Mazak Integrex i-400ST
The robot arm clamps the workpiece in the MAIN SPINDLE of the system. The machining process then begins. While Machining is in progress, the SherpaLoader®T25 picks up the next raw part from the Raw Material Staging and aligns it on the alignment station. The integration of synchronous processes reduces non-productive times and increases the spindle run time. During Machining, the Mazak Integrex i-400ST automatically transfers the workpiece from the main spindle to the counter spindle. This process enables Machining of both sides of the workpiece without manual intervention. Once machining is complete, the robot removes the finished workpiece from the counter spindle using the two-jaw gripper. At the same time, the previously aligned blank is transferred to the work area and clamped directly into the MAIN SPINDLE. This continuous material flow ensures that system downtimes are avoided and Machining can continue seamlessly. The robot arm then places the finished part back on the Raw Material Staging.
Reliable CNC automation with the SherpaLoader®T25 on the Mazak Integrex i-400ST
Automation with the SherpaLoader®T25 on the Mazak Integrex i-400ST combines precise workpiece handling with synchronized processes and high process stability. The benefits are reflected in consistent component quality, increased productivity and reduced non-productive times. The machine is operated in compliance with the highest safety standards. A monitored safety gate, a light curtain and protective devices against creeping under and reaching over ensure safe operation of automated production. This enables economical and reproducible series production that meets both the quality and safety requirements of modern production environments.
