Towards high performance robotic solutions in press automation - An ABB view

Press-shops are capital intensive and therefore achieving maximum productivity has always been a challenge. Dedicated automation was the first approach in the historical evolution of press automation. The solution was based on mechanical arms, known as feeders. The robot based solution provided the robotics flexibility, plus the reliability and cost efficiency resulting from high production volumes. However, the performance of robot based solutions was not initially as high as with dedicated machines (feeders). Thanks to developments such as the 7 axis robots ABB leadership was consolidated, with market decision to go for robotic solutions versus dedicated feeder. New developments such as the Twin robot give a robotic solution that competes with high speed hard automation solutions. Also other areas in the press shop have been identified for robotic solutions with added value with respect to today´s way of operating.