Optimization of CNC Machining on the Mazak Quick Turn 250M through robot-assisted automation
In modern manufacturing environments, automation plays a central role in the stabilization of machining processes, the reduction of manual interventions and the economic use of machine running times. On the Mazak Quick Turn 250M, the SherpaLoader®T20 handles automated component handling including position detection, alignment, clamping device cleaning and synchronized transfers. The system is designed for the series production of rotationally symmetrical parts and ensures consistently precise machining quality with reproducible clamping conditions.
Robot-based CNC Machining with the Mazak Quick Turn 250M
The SherpaLoader® T20 is equipped with two three-jaw centric grippers for the implementation of machining automation on the Mazak Quick Turn 250M. The robot arm also has an integrated camera system and a compressed air nozzle. The material is supplied via a SpaceBox. The robot opens the Raw Material Staging with an integrated actuator and detects the position of the raw parts with the camera-based recognition system. This reduces the need for manual loading of the Raw Material Staging and enables position-independent removal. In addition, the production process can be efficiently adapted to changing component geometries and production conditions. Once the robot has picked up the parts, it grips the first blank with the blank gripper and transfers it to the alignment station. There, the Part is centered and pre-positioned. This reproducible pre-alignment ensures constant clamping conditions and forms the basis for consistent component quality. Before inserting the aligned blank into the Mazak Quick Turn 250M, the SherpaLoader®T20 automatically cleans the chuck with compressed air. The removal of chips and coolant residues ensures clean clamping conditions and a constant clamping force and also reduces the risk of insertion errors. The prepared part is then automatically inserted into the chuck of the Mazak Quick Turn 250M. The machining process starts immediately after the automated control of the system door, which is opened and closed via an electric drive. While the raw part is being machined in the Mazak Quick Turn 250M, the robot already starts preparing the next workpiece. The implementation of synchronized processes reduces non-productive times in the production process and increases the spindle running time. Once Machining is complete, the robot arm cleans the finished part directly in the machine. The finished part gripper removes the finished part from the chuck of the Mazak Quick Turn 250M and cleans it before the raw part, which has already been carried along, is clamped again directly. The continuous repetition of this closed sequence ensures uninterrupted production with consistently stable clamping conditions. The finished part is then placed back on the Raw Material Staging unit.
Process reliability and efficiency through the use of robots on the Mazak Quick Turn 250M
The automated implementation with the SherpaLoader® T20 increases the reproducibility of Machining in the Mazak Quick Turn 250M, reduces the susceptibility to faults in the clamping processes and reduces the need for manual intervention. The constant clamping cleanliness, defined transfers and synchronized sequences contribute to high process stability. At the same time, production efficiency is increased as cycle times are reduced and machine running times can be better utilized. The automated solution enables resilient and consistently standardized production with consistent component quality and the highest safety standards. Automated operation is safeguarded by several safety devices. The entire production cell is enclosed by a permanently installed protective housing. The access door to the production environment is equipped with a proximity sensor that permanently monitors whether the door is closed or open. In addition, a light barrier protects the production area to prevent unintentional interference with the ongoing process.
