August 2024 Volume 6

EQUIPMENT & TECHNOLOGY

unparalleled flexibility and autonomy it introduces to the manufacturing process. Comprising four 10,000-ton hydraulic presses designed for forging and swaging applications, this production cell is a testa ment to Macrodyne's commitment to excel lence and innovation. The uniqueness of this project lies in its comprehensive approach to the customer's diverse needs. Typically, a project of this magnitude might divide the requirements across four different systems, each handling a quarter of the variations. However, the client requested that each system be capable of managing the full spectrum of variations. Each press cell within the production cell operates autonomously, from die changes to part entry and exit, including the movement and storage of parts outside the press cells. This autonomy extends to handling non conforming parts, isolating them for review without the need for operator intervention. The production cell's hydraulic system is a powerhouse, with four high-power pump motor groups delivering a combined flow of 625 gallons per minute of hydraulic oil at 7,250 PSI. The press itself, an engineering marvel, consists of six massive steel plates with thicknesses ranging from seven to nine inches each, and the entire press including frame, cylinder, bolster and hydraulics, weighs in at an impressive 2.5 million lbs.

including revisits for pre-press and post-press inspections. “Pushing the boundaries of what's possible in automation and manufacturing is at the core of everything we do at Macrodyne," says Fernandez. "This project, with its unpar alleled scale and complexity, is a perfect example of how we tailor our solutions to meet even the most demanding client speci fications. Our dedication to innovation and excellence is what allows us to turn these ambitious concepts into reality." "We're taking a big step forward in capabili ties that are not normally seen in the auto mation industry,” adds Michael Watchorn, Automation Controls Designer with Macro dyne. “We've expanded our abilities to be more dynamic to meet the flow, to meet the variations that customers are looking for. We're expanding the envelope of what will hopefully become standard in the future.” This project not only demonstrates Macro dyne's adeptness at handling complex and varied requirements but also signifies a leap toward the future of manufacturing. By crafting a lights-out production cell that marries flexibility with autonomy, Macro dyne sets a new benchmark in the automa tion industry, paving the way for what could become the new standard in manufacturing excellence. Looking to the future, Macrodyne is poised to continue its trailblazing path in the world of automation and material handling. The company's recent expansion, including the addition of a Kingston office dedicated exclusively to automation, highlights its commitment to innovation and its readi ness to meet the evolving needs of industries. "The establishment of our dedicated auto mation team in Kingston is a testament to our forward-thinking approach and commitment to meeting the ever-evolving demands of our customers," says Paul St-Jean, Automation Engineering Manager. "This strategic move not only enhances our capability to innovate but also ensures we remain at the cutting edge of automation technology. For our customers, this means access to unparalleled expertise and bespoke solutions that are designed to give them a competitive edge. It's initiatives like these that truly set us apart from the competition,

demonstrating our unwavering dedication to not just keeping pace with industry advance ments but leading them." Macrodyne's vision for the future aligns with emerging trends, focusing on the develop ment of new technologies and solutions that will further revolutionize manufacturing processes. Its ongoing investments in tech nology and workforce talent underscore a commitment to not just keeping pace with industry advancements, but leading the charge. The company’s legacy, built on the founda tions of engineering excellence, customer centric service, and a forward-looking vision, positions Macrodyne as an indis pensable partner for industries navigating the complex landscape of automation and material handling. As companies across the industry sectors strive for sustainable growth and competi tiveness, engaging with Macrodyne’s inno vative solutions becomes not just an option but a necessity for future success.

Beyond its physical attributes, the proj ect's technological integration is equally impressive, featuring a centralized super visory control that directs autonomous operation. This includes integra tion with SCADA, IT MS SQL Server Database and ERP systems. The flexi bility of the system is further highlighted by its variable recipe sequencing, allowing parts to visit different stations in any order,

Katrina Geenevasen Marketing Manager Macrodyne Press

Phone: +1 905-669-2253 extension 508 Email: kgeenevasen@MacrodynePress.com

FIA MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2024 19