ISMR September 2023 | Page 40

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Produtech ’ s ALPI VENTI punching line , using servo machines .
Example of coil-processed metal .
1 . Significant energy savings during the sheet-metal working processes thanks to the direct feed from coil which avoids numerous ancillary operations for sheet cutting , packaging , logistics and the use of additional machines .
2 . Saving CO₂ emissions through simplification of the production process and by using fibre optic lasers to replace CO₂ lasers .
3 . Reduction of the use of raw materials through production on continuous sheet metal strip which eliminates head and tail sheet-metal scrap .
ISMR : What is Productech ’ s approach to Industry 4.0 and enabling technologies ?
FM : Produtech ’ s approach to Industry 4.0 has been significant as all our machines and systems comply with the parameters of Industry 4.0 and contribute to our customers ’ digital transitions . That is one of the reasons why we have invested in digitalisation , digitising the entire production process .
ISMR : Are there any products / technologies that you have released or are releasing this year that you would like to discuss ?
FM : We are currently working on a new project called “ AutoCOIL ”. This project , which will be covered by new patents , aims to complete the automation of operating cycles which , from coil , produce finished components on a single line . Project implementation will allow metal component manufacturers to use systems that feed directly from coil , as well as a system for coil change and automated production . They will benefit from the production flexibility of direct coil feeding .
The “ AutoCOIL ” system will consist of a compact magazine to house the various coils and a shuttle that picks up the coils from the magazine and loads them automatically onto the expandable shaft of the decoiling machine . The cycle for replacing a coil will be simple and safe , as well as automatic .
ISMR : How has Produtech embraced sustainability in its products , processes and operations ?
FM : By designing and manufacturing innovative machines and systems , Produtech has not only contributed to improving production processes but has greatly contributed to sustainability in the ways highlighted here :
4 . Lower production of scrap metal enables further energy savings by reducing the costly processes required to regenerate the scrap metal .
5 . The use of direct-drive motors ( linear and torque motors ) eliminate mechanical transmissions and therefore lubrication with oils that are sprayed into the environment .
6 . Reduction of noise pollution through mechatronic drives that control speed and the impact phase of the tools on the sheet .
7 . Increased safety in the workplace by eliminating handling operations for sheet-metal sections and manual control of various production operations which could necessitate high-risk interventions .
ISMR : Thank you for your time . n
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