Two processes in one

Expert-Tünkers offers combined motion for precision manufacturing.

Modern production lines are increasingly relying on automated systems that integrate both turning and lifting. This synergy enables more efficient material processing and workpiece transport – a crucial factor for companies striving for the highest quality standards while simultaneously optimizing production costs. "If large, heavy, or awkward workpieces are still transported or aligned manually, this slows down the manufacturing process considerably. However, automated machines can take over the lifting and positioning of workpieces, enabling high-precision machining. Combining turning and lifting, or lifting and turning, offers a number of advantages, such as increased efficiency, reduced costs and time savings through optimized processes, and increased employee safety," says Christian Heyer, Managing Director of Expert-Tünkers GmbH.

Lifting and rotating units for machining in any position

The lifting and rotating unit from Expert-Tünkers is used, for example, for manipulating complete car bodies in body-in-white lines. It is primarily used at bolt and inspection stations, as well as rework stations. "The modular units consist of two roller lifters and a flexible drum drive. The lifting columns are available as flexible servo versions or with a fixed milled motion profile. The vertical drive is provided by a mechanically synchronized gear motor," reports Heyer. After the car body has been precisely clamped in the support frame, lifted from the transport skid, and moved to the upper working position, the rotational movement begins. The flexible turntables enable machining in almost any position. "This allows workpieces weighing up to 3,000 kilograms to be lifted with a flexible rotation angle in 3 to 10 seconds. The compact design allows for successful integration into almost any production line," says Heyer.

Turn-and-lift units for heavy loads

Turn-and-lift units, on the other hand, can be used for tool changes in production. Heavy-duty rotary tables serve as a base unit and buffer storage for up to four tool carriers, which in turn can be moved into and out of the machining station using a synchronized turn-and-lift movement. "The units move customer loads of up to 12,000 kilograms with a rotation angle of 90 degrees. With turning times of 4.8 seconds and lifting times of 1.8 seconds, production is achieved with minimal cycle time losses," says Heyer, adding: "The seamless integration of machining and material handling can not only optimize production processes but also meet the demands of ever faster and more efficient manufacturing."