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has launched a new family of modular machine tending application cells for the metals industry aimed at maximizing flexibility and machine utilization while minimizing lost productivity caused by production stoppages. The FlexLoader M family – which features six different versions – offers a variety of ways to load and unload machines based on the size, shapes and amount of workpieces being handled. ABB says this makes it ideal for applications such as foundries and die casting operations that produce multiple types of products in varying quantities.

According to ABB, the FlexLoader M offers a flexible and expandable solution for a wide variety of machine tending applications, including lathes, mills, CNC and machining centers. A key benefit is the ability to use the same base machine, exchanging in and out feed modules as requirements change.

The launch starts with tray and conveyor variants, with further variants due for release over the coming months. The FlexLoader M Conveyor is said to use a simple but powerful vision system to enable easy loading of workpieces with complex shapes, providing the flexibility to handle a variety of workpieces with a single cell. The FlexLoader M Tray is a drawer solution offering easy machine tending.

A smart wizard reportedly enables new workpieces to be programmed in less than five minutes with no vision programming expertise required, while changeover between pieces which are already programmed is possible in less than one minute. ABB claims one operator can handle up to 10 cells simultaneously.

All the variants can be equipped with a vision system that identifies the workpiece’s position and gives commands to the robot, machine tools and other cell equipment such as air cleaning stations, part marking, deburring and measurement systems. The vision system can use either a 2D camera or 3D sensor depending on the application, and includes condition monitoring, fleet management and performance and order management.

The FlexLoader M also incorporates data-based optimization features, including remote monitoring, enabling operators to monitor, troubleshoot and optimize their robot systems.