A U.S.-based axle gears manufacturer recently commissioned hardware and software enhancements to add to their existing heat treat cell and automation.
Migration of legacy controls was not economically feasible, and after investigating options to boost equipment functionality, the customer opted to integrate a new PLC that bridges the gap between the heat treat cell and new robotic loading cell. The new control system installed by United Process Controls, Inc., (UPC) provides operators with a quick display of the furnace status, functions, and operational data of three AFC Holcroft carburizing pusher furnaces. Furnaces were similarly adjusted to liaise with the new robotic loader. In addition, material handling data from the registers of the old PLCs was transferred to the new robot cell to help increase the factory information system. UPC was also retained to program and connect the updated furnace controls, including the new conveyor line, and charge cars to the factory information system.
