Shot Blasting Goes High Tech

摘要

Global competition and the resulting cost pressures require companies to develop a new approach towards manufacturing. Implementing integrated, fully automated manufacturing systems is a key factor in reducing costs and surviving in this highly competitive market environment. In shot blasting, there is significant potential for cost savings. This article presents two case studies from the field of die casting, where automated shot blasting solutions produced considerable cost reductions. Manufacturing in the 21st century requires a high degree of flexibility, due to rapidly changing product requirements. The automobile industry, with its ever-decreasing car model life cycles, is a typical example of this. Quick and efficient retooling of production lines is key to remaining flexible. Volkswagen of Mexico took this into account when planning for a new line for blast cleaning different types of cylinder heads, choosing a flexible, easy-to- maintain robotic shot blast system as part of its overall automation concept.