"A new, larger range of pallet handling system (PHS) provides manufacturers of larger workpieces the same handling flexibility, efficiency and cost savings that users of the smaller range have seen," said a Liebherr spokesperson. The PHS 10000 handles workpiece diameters between 3,000 and 3,500 mm (118" - 137") or larger and transports loads between 10,000 and 13,000 kg (22,000 - 28,660 lbs.) or greater.
The Liebherr system efficiently automates production involving low volumes as well as a large variety of components, providing greater efficiency, productivity and quality through better machine utilization, according to the spokesperson.
The modularly designed linear pallet handling system is engineered to flexibly automate machining centers. The system is based on standardized machine pallets on which the workpieces to be machined are clamped manually or automatically.
The Liebherr PHS is available in four sizes for transport loads of 500 to 13,000 kg. The modular design allows the system to be individually adapted to each application case. The number of machines, set-up stations and storage slots connected is therefore variable.
"Essential to economical production is the optimum supply of the processing machine," said the spokesperson. "Hand-loaded or semi-automatic machines only meet this requirement to a limited extent. With the PHS, high capacity machining centers can be supplied with workpieces set up on pallets outside the machine. The PHS also permits buffering to accommodate varying machining times by providing temporary storage, which makes the system well-suited to production from lot size one to many different workpieces.
"The Liebherr PHS can be used to achieve machine utilization rates greater than 90%. Personnel requirements are also reduced with the implementation of shifts comprising few or no workers, which allows the investment to pay for itself within a short time.
"Liebherr PHS exploits untapped potential and reduces unit costs by more than 20%. For workpieces with processing times of around two hours, costs can be reduced by as much as one third. This is achieved by optimum machine utilization combined with reduced staff deployment and less overall investment."
Fixtures are set up in parallel to primary machining using separate workstations. Multiple clampings increase machine running times and therefore the possible work inventory in the system. For example, instead of two machines with pallet changers, which achieve a utilization rate of just under 75%, only one machine with a pallet changer and a PHS is required - at approximately a utilization of then 90% and the same output. Optionally, an integrated fixture and material management system can support the production environment.
Liebherr's PHS is available in four sizes covering a range of applications. Within each size, there are different payload ranges available to suit each application. The modular system components include the lift module, shelf module, safety equipment, pallet set-up module and optional front access.
Depending on user requirements, these elements are configured into one complete system. All base modules of a similar size can be individually configured to accommodate machine and material-pallet handling, different machine types and sizes and different set-up stations.
The cell controller is regulated by the modular Soflex PCS system. The software is designed to ensure transparent processes, optimize capacity, regulate workpiece transport, manage temporary storage, tools and fixtures and provide NC machining data.
The key link between the operator, the connected machine, equipment and automation is the cell control system. It coordinates all necessary tasks for planning orders and resources.
"Liebherr offers a wide range of automation systems that support modern high-efficiency production," said the spokesperson. "The emphasis is on economy, ease of use, quality and reliability in combination with a high degree of flexibility. The product range comprises gantry robots, conveying systems, storage systems, pallet handling systems and robot integration."
To avoid having to set up tools regularly and to help ensure unmanned production over longer periods of time, Liebherr offers autonomous tool storage and tool handling systems capable of storing up to 2,000 tools and supplying them to the machine. They are available as a central magazine or as an overhead magazine.
It is designed for systems with several machines and requirements for special and duplicate tools. Since tools can be stored centrally and divided among the process machines, overall investment in tooling can be reduced.
Tool management is provided by the cell control system and helps ensure a continuous flow of information required for controlling the complete system, and is available to the operator.
For more information contact:
Liebherr Automation Systems Co.
1465 Woodland Drive
Saline, MI 48176-1259
734-429-7225
info.lgt@liebherr.com
www.liebherr.us