Mills CNC has strengthened its automation portfolio with the introduction of its new SYNERGi T Series, a range of compact automation systems designed specifically to help manufacturers involved in high-mix, low-volume production increase productivity and extend unmanned machining opportunities.
Drawing on its extensive experience designing and supplying automated manufacturing cells across the UK and Ireland, Mills CNC has developed the T Series to provide a flexible automation solution capable of integrating with one or more machine tools. The range comprises three models – the T5, T10 and T20 – each engineered to create high-productivity manufacturing cells capable of supporting 24/7 unattended and lights-out production.
Despite their compact footprint, the new systems incorporate a range of advanced technologies designed to maximise flexibility and efficiency. Each system features an industrial six-axis robot, with payload and reach specified according to the application, supported by a choice of end-of-arm tooling and pneumatic or electronic grippers.
Integral to the design is a servo-driven Vertical Lift System available in different heights, with five, 10 or 20 vertically stacked, bi-directional drawers providing high-density storage for workpieces and finished parts.
Within these drawers are configurable trays equipped with grid plates or sockets, allowing users to organise and store both raw material billets and completed components. An ergonomic load and unload station, positioned at waist height and incorporating a transfer hatch, enables operators to load new workpieces and remove finished parts quickly and safely. The systems also feature comprehensive safety measures, including guarding and a highly responsive light curtain to ensure operator protection during automated operation.
At the heart of every T Series system is Mills CNC’s proprietary SYNERGi software. Accessed through a 17in touchscreen HMI, the latest Version 6 software controls and coordinates all cell functions and automation processes. Designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, the software enables operators to manage automation tasks with minimal training requirements.
The interface allows rapid set-up, with jobs reportedly configured in just a matter of minutes. Additional features include multi-touch functionality and 3D visualisation tools that support production planning, scheduling and job modifications, while providing real-time monitoring of operations. Integrated remote assistance functionality also keeps users informed by issuing notifications when processes are completed or interrupted.
Heath Redman, chief technical officer at Mills CNC, said: “Component manufacturers involved in Low Volume: High Mix production can improve their productivity and process efficiencies with our flexible SYNERGi T Series systems.
“With up to 20 levels of vertical storage available in small physical footprint, these systems are designed with separate loading zones for the robot (machine side), and operator (set up side), enabling customers to replenish workpieces or safely remove finished parts without interrupting robot and machining operations.
“Our T Series systems facilitate the quick loading and the fast processing of differently sized workpieces and can transform machine shop performance through continuous production.”
The introduction of the SYNERGi T Series provides manufacturers with a scalable automation solution that combines compact design, flexible storage and advanced robot handling to support increasingly efficient, lights-out production strategies in demanding high-mix environments.