How Industrial Automation Can Bring Immense Growth In Bulk Production?

Imagine if you could increase your production by 50% or even 100%. That's the potential that industrial automation has to offer. With the help of Mazak and FANUC parts, your business can achieve maximum productivity and see growth like never before.

What are FANUC and Mazak machines, you ask? Simply put, they're the components that make industrial automation possible. By incorporating these parts into your production process, you're taking advantage of all that industrial automation has to offer.

There are hypes about it- in fact, a lot. Are you ready to see what they are? In this article, we'll explore the benefits of industrial automation and show you how to get started.

The Benefits Of Industrial Automation

Industrial automation has been one of the most influential and beneficial technologies to emerge in recent years. By automating key processes, businesses have been able to improve efficiency, quality, and safety while reducing costs.

Some of the benefits of industrial automation include:

• Improved Quality

Automated systems can be programmed to perform tasks with consistent accuracy and precision. This can help to eliminate errors and improve the overall quality of products or services.

• Increased Speed And Efficiency

Automated systems can often work faster than manual processes, allowing businesses to increase their output and productivity. 

Additionally, automated systems can often work continuously without the need for breaks, meaning that production can be carried out around the clock if necessary.

• Reduced Costs

The initial cost of implementing an automated system may be higher than using manual labour, but automated systems can save businesses money in the long run by increasing efficiency and reducing waste. 

Additionally, automated systems often require less maintenance than manual ones, further saving on costs.

• Improved Safety 

Automated systems can help to create a safer working environment by eliminating or reducing the need for employees to work with dangerous machinery or materials. This can help to reduce workplace accidents and injuries.

The Different Types Of Industrial Automation

Automation in the industry involves the use of various techniques to streamline production processes and reduce the need for human intervention. There are different types of industrial automation, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The most common types of industrial automation are:

1. Discrete Manufacturing

This type of automation is used in industries that produce items that are distinct from one another, such as electronic components or automobiles. 

Discrete manufacturing generally requires less investment in automated equipment than other types of manufacturing, making it a good option for small and medium-sized businesses. 

However, discrete manufacturing can be more difficult to scale up than other types of automation.

2. Process Manufacturing

Process manufacturing involves the production of items that are continuous, such as chemicals or food products. This type of automation often requires more investment in automated equipment than discrete manufacturing, but it can be easier to scale up production using process automation.

3. Hybrid Manufacturing

Hybrid manufacturing combines elements of both discrete and process manufacturing. This type of automation can be customized to fit the needs of specific industries and businesses. 

Hybrid manufacturing can be more expensive to set up than either discrete or process Manufacturing, but it offers the potential for greater flexibility and efficiency.

How FANUC And Mazak Parts Increase Efficiency?

Fanuc and Mazak are well-known brands in industrial automation. Their parts play an important role in increasing the efficiency of machines. 

When it comes to bulk production, anything that can increase efficiency is a godsend. With the help of these parts, machines can run faster and easier, with less chance of error. This means that your company can produce more products in a shorter amount of time, with fewer mistakes.

In short, industrial automation with FANUC and Mazak Parts can bring about immense growth for your business. It's a proven way to increase efficiency and output, all while reducing costs. Are you ready to see the power of automation in action?

Different Types Of Automation Solutions Available

Now that you know all about the benefits of industrial automation, you might be wondering what types of automation solutions are available.

Here are some of the most popular types of automation solutions:

• Assembly Line Robots

These robots are used to assemble products on an assembly line. They are programmed to perform repetitive tasks, such as welding, painting, and screwing.

• CNC Machines

CNC machines are computer-controlled machines that are used to cut, drill, and mill various materials.

• 3D Printers

3D printers are used to create three-dimensional objects from digital files. They are often used in the manufacturing of parts and prototypes.

• Material Handling Robots

Have you ever seen robots are moving different materials here and there in a factory or warehouse? These are the robots doing that. They can be programmed to load and unload trucks, sort and stack products, and more.

So, there you have it! These are just a few of the many types of industrial automation solutions that are available.

Conclusion

Industrial automation is the future of manufacturing. With the help of FANUC and Mazak, manufacturers can increase their production in a shorter amount of time. Not only will this save the manufacturer time and money, but it will also improve the quality of the product.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/how-industrial-automation-can-bring-immense-growth-in-bulk-production

How to Maintain a CNC Machine

We all are familiar with the machines like lathe, milling, drilling, etc. These machines require human involvement to perform and be monitored. This way, it consumes more time and has less accuracy. To overcome this problem CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) machines were manufactured.

 

CNC machines can be defined as the machines that are controlled by computer and the operations are performed by inserting the program. You can consider them as the brain of the whole manufacturing process.

 

This makes it even more important to maintain them, because if it goes down, all the other processes will stop working. Such failures can cost businesses thousands of dollars because they have to instantly find the replacement parts, manage missed deliveries, etc. 

 

To avoid such situations what we can do is focus on the maintenance of the machine on a regular basis. And if any part requires replacement you can easily find good quality Mazak parts, Fanuc parts, etc. online.

 

Moving further, let us learn about CNC machine maintenance in detail.

What Parts of CNC Needs Maintenance?

The maintenance of the CNC machines is not as complicated as it sounds. It is simple but critical as no company can afford the cost a small mistake can cause. Hence, here is the complete list of the maintenance steps you need to consider.

 

Coolant: The parts of the machine move fast and this means it will generate heat. So a fixed coolant level must be maintained otherwise these parts can get damaged. If they get damaged you can find good quality Mazak parts, Fanuc parts, etc. online.

 

Cooling Oils: The speed of the spindle is around 10,000 RPM and it is obvious that it will produce heat. Thus, to avoid this thermal energy a right cooling system with the right concentration of oils is needed.

 

Lubrication: The moving parts of the machine can get dry and might need lubrication to reduce unwanted friction. Thus, using oil or grease on the parts moving smoothly. The other fluids like hydraulic fluid in the CNC machine also need replacement. If the machine consumes fluid excessively, then it indicates that the machine may have some problem.

 

Surfaces: The grime will build up on the surface if not cleaned regularly. To ensure a clean working environment, a good grip and proper visibility in the room, clean windows, doors, handles, etc. are important.

 

The other thing that you need to care about is the sound of the machine. If the machine is having any slight mechanical failure, it will sound differently. You should always consider it as a red flag and check it intensively. And if any parts need replacement, you can easily find Mazak replacement parts, Fanuc replacement parts, etc. online.

 

How Often Do You Do Maintenance Checks?

A CNC machine’s sensors, detector system, etc. also gives signals if anything is wrong. Apart from that you must indulge in a routine based on the hours of machine used. To save yourself from doing all the tasks at once, you can divide these tasks strategically.

 

We have made a list for you but can change the time intervals as your work requirements and usage of the machine. 

 

Daily Maintenance tasks:

• Check lubrication levels and refill if needed

• Any part that looks dry must be greased

• Check coolant concentration and level; add more if required

• Empty chip hopper

• Check hydraulic system levels

• Clean surface and the surroundings

 

Monthly Maintenance:

• Clean or replace air filters

• Clean coolant filters

• Clean radiators

• Clean cooling fans

• Review the checklists for unusual oil consumption

• Adjust chains or conveyors

 

Yearly Maintenance:

• Completely remove coolant tank and take out metal chips to check for bacterial growth

• Inspect and clean the system

• Check hydraulic oil for contaminates

• Replace filters

• Drain and clean lubrication unit and refill new oil

• Check drawbar tension and chuck cylinder

• Replace the X and Y axis gibs if needed under backslash program

 

Wrapping Up

All CNC machines perform different tasks but the processes like coolants, lubrications, filters, etc. are common for almost all CNC machines. Even if a small breakage happens your in-house team will be able to repair it in no time if you already have replacement parts of your CNC machine handy. You will easily find the Mazak replacement parts, Fanuc replacement parts, etc. Hence, this way it ensures your delivery schedule is not affected.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/how-to-maintain-a-cnc-machine

Top 3 Safety Practices for Plasma Cutting

Plasma cutting is one of the most simple, popular, and economical cutting methods. But if not handled with care, it will lead to unexpected severe hazards. So, to reap its benefits and increase productivity without any accidents, you should follow some safety practices. The foremost safety step to take is investing in good quality machine parts like Mazak parts, Mitsubishi machine parts, Amada plasma cutting parts, etc. Here we will have a brief look at the top three plasma cutting safety tips that one must follow:

1. Fire Safety

In the plasma cutting process, preventing fire should be on the top of your safety checklist. It is because the plasma cutting arc blows hot metals and sparks out. It can even heat up by cutting the torch and workpiece that may cause fire and burns. Also, ensure you are keeping your eyes safe while performing plasma cutting. And how can you do it? With the help of safety glasses having a side shield. You can even use a helmet or a face shield with safety glasses for more protection.

You can also protect your body from harmful flying sparks and hot metal with the help of dry undamaged flame-resistant gloves and clothes. You can choose clothes made from tightly woven materials such as wool, leather, heavy denim, etc. You should also button your shirt collars to stop them from catching fire. You should avoid wearing cuffed pants as they can catch sparks. And to protect your feet from the fire, you should wear the best quality leather shoes and boots.

The plasma can be so hot that it can even cut through the gloves and skin. Thus, to prevent this injury, you must avoid gripping material near the cutting path.

2. Proper Ventilation

Similar to welding, plasma cutting also produces fumes and gases. And breathing them might mess with your health. You can prevent this health hazard by ensuring proper ventilation in the space where machines are working using fume extraction systems and respirators. You can even use a welding respirator while using a plasma cutter in a confined space. In situations when the airflow of your working machine room is restricted, then you can use a welding fume extractor. Additionally, ensure that you comply with the codes and standards of your area.

When you cut coated metals such as cadmium-plated steel or galvanized steel, you should remove the coating from the cutting area. These coatings release toxic fumes when they are cut with the plasma arc. You can use the suction system and exhaust hood at the arc to ventilate the cutting area while cutting the coated metals. This will keep the area free of fumes and safe to breathe.

3. Avoid Electric Shocks

Manufacturers connect plasma arc with an electric circuit between a workpiece and a torch. This means that if you touch the torch or the workpiece when the plasma cutter is operating, you might end up with a fatal electric shock through your body. Additionally, plasma cutters need compressed gas and high voltage to cut steel and electrically conductive metals. To give you a perspective, the plasma cutter voltages are in the range of 100-200 Volts, and that is way higher than welding voltages.

You can follow the below safety practices for saving yourself from electric shocks:

• Do not remove the ground clamps when the plasma cutting process progresses.
• Wear insulated boots and gloves to keep your body dry and safe from electric shocks.
• Do not remove the ground cable that is attached to the workpiece during the cutting process.
• Do not stand, sit, or lie on the wet floor while the plasma cutting process is going on. Instead, choose a rubber mat to prevent electrical shocks.

Conclusion

I hope the safety practices mentioned earlier may help you to carry out plasma cutting devoid of accidents or any injuries. You must remember, the key here is to identify the risks and eliminate them with necessary safety measures. To ensure additional safety, you can use high-quality Mazak parts and Mitsubishi machine parts. By following these safety measures, you can not only eliminate the accidents but also ensure growth and productivity.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/top-3-safety-practices-for-plasma-cutting

Which is the Best Choice for Replacing an Auto Part

 When any part fails on your car, you have either of the five options to replace it with:

• A new part

• A rebuilt part

• A remanufactured part

• An aftermarket part

• A used part

In the case of buying a costly part, like an entire engine, some people would say that there is a sixth option too: Selling the car to a Milwaukee junkyard for scrap metal. Here, I am assuming that you are going to keep the car. So, let us have a look at your options:

 

1. Remanufactured Parts

It is an old part that is entirely remanufactured to provide the same standards as that of a new part. These parts usually have a good warranty compared to rebuilt parts because they often involve extensive work to bring them again to OEM tolerances. Most auto supply stores offer remanufactured parts. Auto dealerships will utilize them when new parts are not available. 

 

2. Aftermarket Parts

These are new parts made by other companies other than the original manufacturer. You can find these parts mostly in the auto supply stores. They are new parts and are backed by a warranty (some good, some not so good). And many customers end up disappointed with aftermarket parts as they often do not fit quite right for the purpose due to slight variations and intolerances.

 

3. Reconditioned Parts

Reconditioning means repairing a part to meet the manufacturer’s specifications for that part. Reconditioning is a process of replacing components that are worn out or damaged. These parts are usually replaced during routine maintenance.

If you own a less popular vintage car or an older model whose parts are difficult to buy for, then you can purchase reconditioned parts. There are some companies that take parts from dismantled vehicles. Then they recondition or remanufacture them to sell. Usually the garage provides you with reconditioned parts, so you can buy from them or from a specialized brand like Mazak parts.

4. New Parts

These parts are great if you have a strong budget. But if you are driving an old car with anything 10 or more years old then chances are no dealer can even get new parts for your car. If you are thoroughly committed to a new part, your best bet is Mazak parts. But if your car is new, then you should definitely opt for new parts. These parts give more durability than the replaced one. And the best part is - these parts fit perfectly for your car model. 

 

5. Used Parts

These are usually OEM parts removed from the salvage vehicles. Used auto parts have a lot to serve for the right equipment. And if you are looking for a deal on an OEM part and do not mind if it has a little wear on it, then used auto parts are your ideal choice. And for the used parts with the least or no wear on it, you should go for quality used parts like Mazak used parts.

Concluding: What is the Best Option for Replacement Parts?

It all depends on different factors, primarily on purpose and budget. If budget is not an issue, then by all means you should look for a new OEM part. Used parts are also a good option here to get the replica of OEM parts at a cheap price. But again, you should keep the quality in the center while choosing. Parts like Mazak used parts can serve the best of used parts you can get.

If you do not want to spend that much on an OEM for different reasons, or if the part is unavailable anywhere, then an aftermarket part might be your next choice.

If you are somewhere between a remanufactured part and a rebuilt part, our recommendation is indeed the remanufactured part. It may cost a little more than a rebuilt part, but it will replace all the worn parts, and it should essentially be, as they say, “good as new.” These parts also come with an excellent warranty.

Source :

https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/which-is-the-best-choice-for-replacing-an-auto-part

How to Balance Machine Performance and Value

In manufacturing businesses, being best is not enough. Shops need to improve constantly in order to stay ahead of the competition. They must keep acquiring new technologies, use branded parts like Mazak parts and Amada parts to maximize profitability. However, better machine monitoring data and equipment have made capital purchasing decisions complicated.

Many businesses prefer simplifying machine tool acquisition processes by prioritizing value - but it comes at the cost of performance. To attain high ROI, it's necessary to have a balance between the two. It may seem daunting at first, but it's easier to keep up with technological advancement and grow business with the right methods.

1. Performance v/s Value

Performance and value together serve as a solution for all the factors that make up the machine. And thus, shops must consider all kinds of performance - from equipment to exceptionally versatile machines, important factors, decision-making time, etc.

Small shops, for instance, should evaluate external factors such as what OEM tools are included with machine purchase or how they can help in operations. So, as it grows, they would have resources to dedicate to process analysis and decision making.

2. Total Ownership Costs

This is the most important factor that businesses need to consider - despite their shop size. The more information they would be able to gather, the easier it would be to make sound decisions. For example, information on OEM's scheduled maintenance program can help estimate future service costs.

As the size increases, they can add more context to maximize ROI, such as cost of educational opportunities, application support provided by various OEMs, etc.

But, at last, they need to look for effective OEMs and spare parts like Mazak parts that can reduce the total ownership cost by offering comprehensive support packages.

3. Pre-Part Costs

As the operational volume grows, the importance of pre-part costs increases too. Besides, high volume is the norm in many industries. If these large manufactures have to cut a fraction of seconds from a part's cycle time, it could save them thousands and more dollars in a year. This is possible if they can balance performance and value, considering every factor from energy consumption to coolant evaporation.

OEMs like Mazak have experience and can help with pre-plan costs at a granular level. Besides, machine tool builders can help optimize the process.

4. Total LifeCycle Costs

For shops to maximize ROI, they need to go beyond the total cost of ownership and the cost spent over the machine's lifecycle, including resale value. After all, many manufacturers who purchase new machines plan to fund their next capital purchase by selling the old equipment. So, it's necessary to look at how quickly machines wear out and how much aftermath support is available.

The total lifecycle costs can change how businesses purchase machines. Hence, it's essential to choose brand manufacturers. Because the machines of those manufacturers are well-supported and durable, which decreases the lifetime cost compared to others. While the initial investment is high, the total lifetime cost remains less.

And when the businesses bring in faster cycle times, greater throughput, and durability of the brand solution, the costs further go down.

5. Capabilities and Capacity

Considering that minimizing capital cost increases ROI, many businesses create purchasing plans with a schedule for upgrading the equipment. This pre-planning ensures businesses that they have the equipment that meets the technological needs and requires less than planned maintenance.

So, the good rule of thumb is to replace 10% of capital investment annually to maintain competitiveness and sell the used machines to fund new ones.

Adding capabilities tend to increase the store's capacity. For example, many shops replace their single-use machine with multi-tasking equipment, which provides flexibility and helps get the work done in one.

In short, they need to partner with brand OEMs like Mazak and use branded parts to maintain productivity and budget.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/how-to-balance-machine-performance-and-value

Fiber Laser Cutting - Features, Advantages, and Components

Fiber laser cutting is the heat cutting process that makes use of a focused laser beam to light up the material. This causes the materials to melt, evaporate, and cut out.

Fiber lasers are a limb of the family called ‘Solid State lasers.’ The laser beam is generated by a solid medium in the solid-state lasers. Fiber laser falls into the small category. 

This technology is perfect with the high power fiber lasers in the recent past, as it constantly improves.

Fiber laser cutting has become the hot spot of industry research and development as it has many features and advantages. Let’s discuss them below:

Features of Laser cutting 

• Fine Quality Cutting

Laser Cutting has the power to deliver fine cutting due to its high energy and quick cutting speed.

The laser beam focuses on the small point of light with high power density. The hole is formed into a fine and clean narrow slit. 

• High Cutting Efficiency

The laser cutting machines generally come up with CNC machines to perform the cutting process.

While operating, you only need the CNC program to apply various shapes.

• Speedy Cutting Process

Slitting a 2mm carbon sheet with the fiber laser machine, the speed can hit up to 600cm/min with the power of 1200w. While slitting 5mm polypropylene resin, the speed can hit up to 1200cm/min.

• Applicable to Many Types of Materials

Many materials can be slit using laser cutting machines. Structural steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, copper, and brass are some of them.

But, the cutting speed may differ based on different material properties and thickness. 

• Flexible and Adaptable

Laser cutting is a more adaptable method compared to other methods. 

Firstly other methods can’t work on small areas like the laser beam, due to which deformation occurs.

Secondly, other methods can’t slit non-metals as laser cutting can.

Advantages of Fiber Laser Cutting

• No heat Damage to the Objects

The laser discharged through the fiber laser cutting machine is robust, which is why it can slit sturdy materials like steel. Also, the fiber laser is so precise that the beam doesn’t cause any damage to the surrounding material on which they are working.

This technology is apt in the electronics industry, where the beam needs to work at the small parts without impairing them.

• Better Performance

The fiber laser offers superior performance over many counterparts. With a highly focused beam and high power densities, it can deliver accurate levels of precision. 

• Less Expensive

Probably the most valuable advantage of fiber laser cutting is its price. For beginners, it doesn’t need expensive optical mirrors as compared with the other laser technology. 

The focusing lens comes sealed with the cutting head. Due to this, one can maintain the focusing lens properly instead of getting impaired.

• Boost in Cutting Speed

Another benefit of using fiber laser cutting is that it enhances the speed of cutting. While cutting 1mm thick material, the fiber laser can cut three times quicker than other traditional processes.

• Cutting Reflective Material

Slitting reflective material was one of the major challenges with traditional cutting methods. There was a probability; the laser can bounce off the reflective material, which can damage the equipment.

This is no longer an issue with the fiber laser method, which allows you to cut these materials.

Components Of Fiber Lasers Machines

Fiber laser cutting is a widely used technology in various industries. After buying the right fiber laser machine, the components come next. One should take care of these components and change them as and when required. Below are some core components of this technology.

• Machine Body
• Laser Source
• Lenses
• Laser cutting head
• CNC (Computer Numerical Control) System
• Operating Table
• Cold Water Unit
• Gas cylinder
• Air Cooling Filter
• Other auxiliary components like slag discharging machine, stabilizer power supply
• Wear-out dust collector

The above component remains the same in every fiber laser machine, including the Mazak parts and Prima parts. Mazak parts and Prima parts are good quality parts for fiber laser machines and durable.

End Words

We hope this article has given you fruitful insights regarding fiber lasers, their advantages when someone uses them, and their components.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/fiber-laser-cutting-features-advantages-and-components

Difference between Laser Etching and Laser Engraving

In general, laser engraving and etching are the processes of creating permanent markings on the material. They belong to the same category, i.e., laser marking. They are equally compatible with Mazak parts and Fanuc parts. However, they still differ a lot. Where laser etching can reach a depth of 0.0001 inches, laser engraving can only reach a depth of 0.005 inches. 

Let’s learn about them in depth. 

Laser Etching Process

Laser etching is a process that creates a mark by melting the surface. It’s an enhanced concept that involves laser engraving and laser annealing. To make the mark, laser beams generate a high amount of heat, which then distorts the microsurface. The markings are in white and black color. 

It is the preferable choice for permanent marking as it requires less energy from the laser beam. You can use this process for marking, such as data matrix codes, serial numbers, barcodes, and logos.

When can you use the Laser Etching Process?

• If your part is made of metal beside stainless steel.
• You need a cost-effective solution that requires a less intense laser beam.
• You need the laser process to be fast. 
• When you need to integrate the marking before the final treatment like powder coating and heat treating. 

Laser Engraving Process

In this process, the laser sends the highly localized pulse over a thin layer of sheet and creates a code. Instead of creating micro-surface like etching, the laser engraving penetrates the material, exposing the cavity to reveal the image. Here, the laser causes the material to vaporize. The typical use of this technique is to engrave serial numbers and logos. You shouldn’t use it for marking critical parts.

When can you use it?

• You need durable marks
• The material is either steel or aluminum
• You need to integrate markings before treatments like shot blasting and sandblasting.  

Why do you need Laser Etching and Laser Engraving?

There are different marking technologies like inkjet printing, dot peening, and printed labels. However, they come with their maintenance and consumable costs. Not to miss the inconsistent results of these unreliable marking systems.

Laser etching and engraving processes use high-quality parts such as Mazak parts and Fanuc parts. It reduces consumable costs and encodes the information permanently. The product can’t detach after marking. The processes involve high resolution, which means you can encode more information in less space. Laser marking technologies like Fiber and CO2 require no maintenance; pulse fibers consume very little power. 

Difference between Laser Etching and Laser Engraving

Though both are susceptible to make a permanent mark, here are the differences that distinguish them. 

• Laser etching is fast, whereas laser engraving is durable. 
• Laser etching melts the material and thus requires less energy. Laser engraving vaporizes it and requires more energy.
• Laser engraving digs holes that have better protection over abrasion. Laser etching loses it over.
• Laser etching can lift upto 80 microns, whereas laser engraving can lift upto 500 microns. 
• Laser etching only creates black and white marks. For high contrast markings, you should prefer laser engraving.
• Laser etching is a preferable option unless you require high abrasion resistance. In that case, laser engraving would be the right choice. 
• The markings of laser etching processes are usually pale, whereas engraving ensures dark marks. 

Conclusion

Choosing one is not that difficult unless you have a lot of requirements. If you don’t need a detailed and resistant work feature, you can go for laser etching. The material would matter, though. For a high resistant mark, choose laser engraving. 

This is what we think, but your final choice should be the one that meets all your conditions.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/difference-between-laser-etching-and-laser-engraving