The Challenge
Manual Loading of Heavy, Repetitive Parts into Steel Baskets
The customer’s heat-treat process required operators to manually handle and position parts into steel baskets for transfer into ovens. Key challenges included:
- Labor-intensive loading and unloading of baskets
- Multiple part types requiring specific orientation
- Consistent, accurate placement for optimal heat-treat results
- Risk of repetitive strain injuries and handling inefficiencies
MWES was tasked with delivering a robotic solution to automate the full load/unload cycle for multiple part SKUs.
The Solution
Fanuc Robot System with Custom Tooling and Basket Fixtures
MWES developed a fully automated robotic system integrating:
- A Fanuc M-900iA/260L robot for high-payload part handling
- Custom EOAT with dual gripper design for efficient part pickup and placement
- Modular basket fixturing to accommodate multiple part types and orientations
- Integrated vision guidance for accurate part location and orientation
- Seamless integration with existing conveyor and furnace systems
The robot picks parts from an inbound conveyor, places them precisely into baskets, and performs the reverse motion to unload post-processed parts—ensuring consistent and efficient material flow.
The Results
Reduced Labor, Improved Consistency, and Faster Cycle Times
MWES helped the customer realize substantial benefits through automation:
- Eliminated manual loading of heavy parts, improving operator safety
- Achieved consistent placement of parts for reliable heat treatment
- Reduced cycle time and increased overall system throughput
- Flexibility to handle multiple part types with minimal changeover
- Improved uptime and efficiency in a demanding industrial environment
This solution delivered the speed, safety, and repeatability the customer needed—proving that robotic handling is a smart investment for demanding thermal processing lines.
