Pallet handling at DMG MORI
Pallet handling is a crucial element in the automated production of milled parts. Pallets in machining centers act as a base on which one or more unmachined parts are clamped. The advantage is that staff can prepare several pallets while the machine tool processes the orders one by one. Autonomous pallet handling speeds up productivity in production by eliminating the need to manually change pallets. The significantly faster automated process drastically reduces machine downtime. Pallets are prepared in parallel to production time through a pallet storage unit, which workers load using set-up stations.
Flexible automation up to a batch size of a single unit
Pallet handling systems in a variety of designs enable the complete customization and efficient automation of manufacturing processes while reducing the risk of staff injuries. Both individual part production and series production benefit from pallet preparation. For example, conventional industrial pallets can be equipped with clamping towers that have space for several workpieces. The wide range of pallet handling options provides a suitable solution for every component size and weight. DMG MORI also supports the handling of small workpieces up to ø 200 x 260 mm as well as the handling of heavy components with a load capacity of up to 10,000 kg. For storing prepared pallets as well as finished machined components, there are different-sized storage solutions available to suit the specific pallet handling system.
Pallet handling systems for every requirement
DMG MORI's product range of pallet handling systems has been highly valued by the industry for decades, because they are a very effective tool in process automation. The range consists of linear and circular types of storage systems in all required sizes.
Linear storage systems
DMG MORI's portfolio of linear storage systems ranges from the space-saving PH 10, an integrated solution for the ULTRASONIC 20 linear, to the Carrier Pallet Pool (CPP), which handles pallet handling for up to four machines and to Linear Pallet Pools (LPP). The latter is designed for up to eight machines, 99 pallets, and five set-up stations. CPP and LPP are controlled by the DMG MORI LPS IV master computer.
Round Storage Systems
DMG MORI's round storage systems are compact automation solutions for pallet handling on a machine. The range extends from the low-cost PH 50 with a minimum of six units to the modular PH Cell series and various round pallet storage systems (RPS) such as the monoBLOCK, duoBLOCK, and NHX machining centers. The round pallet storage systems are easy and convenient to control using the machine control system, which includes the Pallet Master software.
AMR - Pallet handling
The PH-AMR series are an important innovation component for the digital factory of the future. They enable fully automated loading and unloading of machine or zero point clamping pallets into machine tools. It is the beginning of a new era of flexible automation solutions in intralogistics. Depending on the workpiece or pallet size requirement are different PH-AMR sizes for the autonomous and collaborative pallet transport available.
Pallet handling systems: a quick summary
Which machines are suitable for pallet handling?
For milling operations, it is common for one or more unmachined parts to be safely clamped in place on pallets. This means that almost every machining center is suitable for automation using pallet handling.
What is pallet handling?
A pallet handling system creates an automated flow of material between a pallet store and a machining center. It handles the transport of the pallets as well as their insertion and removal from the machine.
Where is a pallet handling system appropriate?
Pallet handling systems can flexibly automate the production of small batches and individual parts. Automated pallet handling reduces machine downtime and provides operators with time to prepare new orders, significantly driving overall productivity.
How is a pallet handling system structured?
A pallet handling system comprises a pallet storage system, which is often scalable, and a handling system. This incluedes a robot or other devices, which lifts the pallets from storage and conveys them to the machine tool. After processing, the system removes the empty pallets and returns them to the stacks on the storage floor. Pallet handling is performed using an intelligent master computer, which prioritizes the orders according to requirements.