Private Client

To allow for increased production volume while improving operator ergonomics, Encorus was enlisted to design and commission an automated material handling system for an existing sandblasting machine. The new system allowed for unattended operation of a previously manual process, along with process monitoring and data collection.

Due to the various alloys the system needed to handle, vacuum was the only option available to grip the parts. This necessitated the design of a custom high payload vacuum system to safely lift the parts. 

Additionally, the abrasive media present throughout the machine was a key design consideration across the system. This led Encorus to incorporate features such as:

• IP67 sealed electronics
• Dry polymer linear bearings
• Sealed rotary bearings
• High capacity vacuum system filtration
• Automatic vacuum system cleaning

Encorus designed a pair of custom automated gantries to load and unload the parts as they were processed through the machine. The gantry frames and off-the-shelf mechanical components were designed and modeled in Autodesk Inventor. This allowed for coordination between the client and multiple vendors to ensure that all equipment received the installation footprint and maintenance access required. These gantries are controlled by an Allen-Bradley PLC-based control system, with an operator interface built on FactoryTalk View. The control system includes sensors throughout the machine to track parts, monitor performance, and detect faults. Intelligent sensors were selected for ease of maintenance and standardization.