www.ADandP.media
AD&P; ∕ MARCH 2016
TURNING
in a special evaluation unit. Process parameters are visualised
in DMG MORI's CELOS control in the "Condition Analyser," for
real-time machine performance and status. The data collected
are brought together and stored on the cloud, improving the
forecast of potentially damaging events, for example on the
spindle, based on empirically determined behavioral patterns.
In short, the machine learns by doing.
STRAIGHTFORWARD CELLS AND
PROCESS PLANNING
Naturally, not every turning assignment suggests a complete
machining approach. Volume is everything in Anthony
Glueckler's world and his company, Glueckler Metal ( gluec-
klermetal.com ), Elmvale, Ontario, is among the leaders in
high-volume automated turning projects. The scale of his
alternator shaft turning cell is impressive: 10 Nakamura Tome
WT-150 multi-axis CNC turning centers (available in the U.S.
from Methods Machine Tools, methodsmachine.com ), 10 LNS
Sprint automatic bar feeders, one Mitutoyo Mach V coordinate
measuring machine (CMM) with automatic part fxturing and
transfer, integrated vision system and integrated scrap-removal.
The cell has been fully loaded for 10 years running, he says.
People were paramount in building the turning cell with
CNC equipment. He wanted to develop a process so friendly
that people with limited skill sets could jump in and start
contributing. "We put together an automation plan that
would accommodate a semi-skilled workforce and durable
equipment that would operate 24/7/365," Glueckler says.
GMI's degree of success is the fact that they readily identify
personnel with no previous
CNC experience but are able to
follow procedures well. "People
become our best assets when
they function within a team
collaborative atmosphere,
where everyone contributes
to create and agree upon a
process," he adds.
The result has been a busi-
ness plan that has withstood
a tumultuous time in North
American manufacturing and
is exhibiting steady growth. "Maintaining zero defects and
fexible cell options means we can continue investigating
opportunities linked to our core competencies. More and
more of our customers are in the same game we are, so we'll
see where industry takes us. With reshoring, industry is real-
izing it needs to rebuild trust that the supply chain is strong
and secure. Products that went away are now coming home
and worth guarding."
Nakumura-Tome WT-150
turning center with LNS bar
feeder at Glueckler Metal.
With reshoring,
industry is real-
izing it needs to
rebuild trust that
the supply chain
is strong and
secure.
41