UNIT 2
MANUFACTURING
AUTOMATION
Classification and Types of Automatic Transfer Machines
Automatic Transfer Machines : An automated transfer machine
consists of multiple workstations that are automated and linked
together by a work handling system that transfers parts from one
station to the next.
Types Of Transfer Machining :
There are three basic types of transfer machining and their
explanations are given below:
i) Inline transfer machines:
In this arrangement, several machining heads are arranged
across the straight line on the sides at a pitch of nearly 1 meter
and components flow in the middle of two rows of machines
along guide rails.
If space does not permit the machines, instead; a straight line
could be arranged in L-shape, square or rectangular pattern. The
conveyor for transferring components could either run over,
under, or around the transfer machine.
The work may be loaded either manually or automatically onto
the machine, and it is transferred by equal pitch movements
from station to station where it is located through dowels and
clamped. The work can be presented to the machining head in
any desired position by using turntables or turnover devices at
the appropriate points on the bed.
All types of machining operations are carried out at various
stations and the chips produced are removed so that these do not
foul or dog the working parts. Coolants need to be supplied in
huge quantities. In case of jam up of components;
an automatic safety device operates and all machines come to a
stop. Such an arrangement is very popular in the automobile
industry.
ii) Rotary indexing table transfer machines:
In this case, work is transferred around a circular line, thereby
giving a more compact arrangement and saving the floor space.
The machining heads are arranged around the periphery, precise
indexing is used for transferring components from a fixed
station of machining heads.
This type of arrangement is usually small in size, there maybe 4
to 17 stations depending on the size of a component. This is due
to a limitation of the size of a table, which can be held and
rotated in a base, such that it can maintain sufficient rigidity for
the components and overall accuracy.
This type of arrangement is best suited for the automatic
assembly of a product.
iii) Drum type transfer machines:
In this case, work fixtures are fastened to the outside surface or
periphery of the drum, and workstations are positioned radially
around the circular path at an equal interval.
As the work hangs from the fixture, the clamping arrangement
must be fool-proofed and efficient. Like circular indexing
arrangement, this too cannot be big in size.
ADVANTAGES OF USING TRANSFER MACHINING
1. It can handle very heavy components and components of an
extremely awkward size and shape. No manual handling of work
is involved except for loading and unloading.
2. Operator fatigue is practically eliminated and the need for
operators can also reduce.
3. The output is considerably increased; the speed of output can be
easily varied to ensure balanced production with other
departments.
4. Considerable floor space is saved by the elimination of inter-
operation sacking and the close grouping of a machine.
5. Control of the work passing through the shop is simplified.
6. It is flexible and can be arranged to suit modifications in the
design of the components.
7. The plant can be disassembled and rebuilt to suit other
workpieces if the component for which it is already designed
becomes obsolete the life of the cutting tool may be
considerably extended.
8. The alignment of work at each station is simplified and
automatized.
9. An overall economy is obtained if the production warrants the
use of this type of equipment.
10. Greater overall accuracy is obtained because the work is
integrated with the fixture throughout.
