Automation Cell Addition Enhances Flexibility of Mold-Applicable Five-Axis 

Grob Systems Inc. presents a new compact GRC-R12 Robot Cell which offers a flexible, customizable and affordable automation solution for the Grob G150 five-axis universal machining center (UMC), the smallest horizontal machining center to-date for the company in its modular G-series Universal line, and highly recommended for mold and die applications. 

“Due to its flexible configuration options, we can design the compact cell to meet unique customer needs, making it possible to produce a wide variety of parts and processes on one system,” Derek Schroeder, Universal Machines, sales and proposals manager at Grob System, says. “Also, we prioritized minimizing the cell’s footprint to save valuable floor space.”

The cell has a six-axis FANUC M-10iD/12 robot with 4.7' (1,441 mm) reach, capable of handling a maximum load of 26.5 lbs. The GRC-R12 features a pneumatic single-or double-gripper system. The drawer feed system can have up to six drawers that can be unloaded and reloaded while the robot cell and machining center are in operation. Optimized chip control inside the machining center enables long periods of unmanned operation without faults. Offering high customizability, customers may select from capabilities such as a blowoff box, SPC drawer and an alignment station.

The compact GRC-R12 base unit which holds the robot cell has dimensions of approximately 5' × 5' to facilitate fast delivery and installation. When the robot cell is fully setup with the G150 machining center including monitors and accessories, overall space dimensions are approximately 24' in length and 10' in width. The GRC-R12 robot cell features a side access door which provides ergonomic, ample access to the G150 machine for new jobs, fixture changes and maintenance, with a window that provides good visibility to the machine. For ease of operation, integrated software enables intuitive cell control.