Application:
Driven to achieve zero defects, international automotive tube supplier performs 100% length inspection immediately after double end finishing.
Solution: In the world of zero defect requirements, visual inspection is not adequate. After all, even 100% visual inspection is only 80% effective. Automotive suppliers must incorporate reliable methods that will ensure that their products consistently meet the rigorous demands of the auto industry. Automation is the answer. Today’s electronics allow companies like Haven Manufacturing to be very imaginative in solving some of the most nagging quality issues in tube manufacturing. Haven’s ability to innovate electro-mechanical solutions that specifically address customer’s needs makes Haven a unique source in our industry. In this application, Haven was asked to develop an integrated length inspection module directly after double end finishing. Haven’s broad line of double end finishers have long been recognized as the most reliable and repeatable machines in the industry. Adding length inspection sounds simple, but the standard machine drops out the finished part immediately after machining. In order to incorporate length measuring, the tube must be re-oriented into a stable position. This re-orientation requires additional handling equipment and a separate length inspection machine, which adds cost and consumes more floor space. The answer to this challenge was the integration of two processes into a single frame and controls, so that the tube does not lose its orientation from machining to inspection. Haven engineers designed a walking beam style transfer system that does exactly that. Tubes are positioned precisely in the machining station where opposed precision bearing spindles perform I.D. and O.D. chamfers and end face to a very close and repeatable length tolerance. From there, the part is walked to a chip blowout station, followed by the length inspection station. Good parts are released and escape the machine, while rejected parts are automatically diverted to a holding bin beneath the machine. If the machine experiences three rejects in a row, the machine stops and signals the operator to investigate.
Results: Haven has once again demonstrated that our machines meet and exceed the high expectations of automotive suppliers. Haven understands the stringent requirements that the automotive industry demands and has the knowledge, flexibility, and design experience to produce the desired solution.
Line of Business
International automotive tube supplier
Target Markets
Automotive
Haven Products in Use
Double End Finishing and Length Inspection