Optimizing Material Handling Processes for Increased Efficiency
In the past, much of the loading and unloading of weld cells was accomplished through manual labor. While manual work can be effective for some specific applications where tight positioning and precise placement are required to maintain part tolerance, oftentimes automating the movement of parts and assemblies is more efficient and cost-effective across the board.
At Melton Machine & Control Company, we have extensive experience in developing automated material handling systems for moving odd-shaped/irregular parts and positioning them into fixtures. Our automated systems operate at very high throughput rates and maintain all applicable safety standards for a safer, smoother transition between workstations.
Streamlined Automation Tailored to Your Needs
Material handling automation is integral to optimizing production. Automating this step helps minimize bottlenecks and reduce manual interventions. By automating tasks such as loading and unloading, material transfers, and kitting, you can significantly increase the productivity and efficiency of your production line while simultaneously overcoming labor shortages.
Melton specializes in designing custom automation solutions that fit seamlessly into existing workflows, allowing for faster material movement, greater accuracy, and reduced labor costs. Our expertise in this area ensures that your company can scale its operations without sacrificing precision or safety.
Our automated material handling equipment can be tailored to a range of applications, including:
- Loading and unloading of welding cells
- Transferring and transporting materials between workstations
- Feeding and unloading machines
- Pallet handling and automated storage
- Kitting and assembly
- Retrieval systems
Make your material handling process a key driver of your operational success.
AMRs and AGVs
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are both types of mobile robots designed to transport materials and navigate your production facility and manufacturing environment.
AGVs follow predefined routes using magnetic tapes, sensors, or laser guidance systems, ensuring proper material movement from one station to another. On the other hand, AMRs are able to navigate dynamic environments without predefined paths using sophisticated navigation systems to autonomously adapt to changes in the environment, such as avoiding obstacles or adjusting to new layouts.
Melton’s custom AGV and AMR systems are developed to promote better, more efficient material movement for your production line. These automated material handling machines are an effective solution for reducing manual labor and minimizing human error, ultimately contributing to a safer and more efficient workflow.
Automated Overhead Crane
When you need to move heavy loads quickly and safely, automated overhead cranes, also called gantry systems – provide a smart solution. When transitioned to an automated system – an overhead crane offers methodical lifting and positioning without the need for manual operation or intervention.
With sensors to ensure safe operation and automated controls for precision, Melton’s automated gantries enhance productivity and allow for precise movement. Whether you’re automating a crane in your manufacturing plant or warehouse, their versatility will allow them to be adaptable to various applications for damage-free transportation of a wide spectrum of materials every time.
Robotic Machine Tending
Robotic machine tending involves using robotic systems to automate the loading and unloading of machines such as CNC machines or injection molding presses. This automation helps reduce downtime, increase output, and ensure consistent handling of parts.
Melton’s robotic machine tending solutions work seamlessly with your existing equipment, whether other systems are automated or not. Automating these repetitive material handling processes helps your business reduce the need for manual intervention, improve product quality, and allocate human workers to more complex, value-added tasks.
The Value of Automated Material Handling Systems from Melton
Melton delivers custom material handling technologies that are tailored to the specific needs of your production line. We understand that no two operations are the same, and we take pride in designing systems that not only integrate seamlessly into your existing setup but also enhance the overall efficiency of your unique processes.
Our team of automation experts will work closely with you to identify pain points and develop solutions that maximize throughput, improve safety, and reduce operational costs. With decades of experience in automating production lines across the country, we have the expertise to help you reach new levels of productivity.
Support to the End of the Project and Beyond
At Melton, we like to say a project isn’t finished until you have a machine that works. We don’t just deliver automated material handling solutions and mark it case-closed. We go the extra mile to ensure you have the continuous support you need to get the most out of your custom systems.
From the initial concept to the final installation, we provide comprehensive system integration services to ensure that everything runs smoothly upon installation. Need something a little more hands-on? Our on-site support team is available to troubleshoot any issues and optimize your automation system on-location.
START A CONVERSATION
You’re only a few clicks away from optimizing your automation capabilities and operational efficiency. At Melton Machine & Control, a clear channel of communication between our automation experts and your skilled team is a priority.
Fill out our contact form to get the ball rolling on your next custom automation design and integration.
