Humanization of Workplaces in the Foundry by the Use of Automatic Fettling Equipment

摘要

Operation of a pilot plant using an industrial robot in the fettling shop of a foundry is described. A continuous path 5 axis robot was employed to steer the pneumatic grinding equipment while the castings remained in a fixed position. Satisfactory removal of edges from the castings was achieved. Ergonomic analysis revealed a reduction of stress for human workers in the foundry. Problems encountered require an automatic change of tools and investigation of the wear of abrasives.