PECM Issue 83 2026 | Page 40

Storage, sawing, sorting in the smallest of spaces

CONTROL & AUTOMATION KASTOCENTER COMPACT

KASTO
Storage, sawing, sorting in the smallest of spaces
By: Petra März, Marketing, KASTO Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG, Achern
Limited floor space and fluctuating batch sizes are prompting many companies to evaluate how they can automate their sawing, storage, and material flow processes. With KASTOcenter compact, KASTO introduces a scalable solution that integrates key operations into one compact system.
KASTOcenter sawing centres seamlessly integrate storage, sawing, and material flow. Numerous applications show how these systems can efficiently handle even complex orders involving small batch sizes and multiple pre-processing operations, with minimal operator involvement. KASTO has taken this concept to a new level: a more spaceefficient, cost-effective solution that remains fully automated. The KASTOcenter compact features a modular design that consolidates automated process operations into a single compact system: shorter distances, reduced manual handling, and a design that is particularly appealing for companies with limited floor space and a diverse range of parts. This system allows users to place materials exactly where it is needed, minimising handling within the production area.“ We designed the sawing centre to allow companies to select the configuration that best
Compact automated solution: KASTOcenter compact combines storage, sawing, material handling, and part removal in a seamless material flow within a small footprint.
KASTOsort seamlessly combines sawing, preprocessing, quality assurance, and sorting.
meets their requirements, based on factors such as the range of materials and sawing output,” explains Jonathan Riegel, a member of the KASTO Board of Directors.
Modular design combines storage, robotics and saws
The system consists of several wellcoordinated components: vertical automated, space-saving storage systems such as KASTOecostore and UNITOWER, which store bar stock and make it readily available for the sawing process. The KASTOpick robotic solution separates the materials, while KASTOload integrates storage, robots, and saws with a roller conveyor. Various saw models are available to meet specific needs: from bandsaws such as the compact all-rounder, KASTOssb, and the high-performance KASTOtec, to circular saws like the versatile KASTOvariospeed. The selection of the appropriate saw depends on several factors, including the type of material, its diameter, the required cycle rate, and production volume.
A linear track, such as the TMF-3 from Güdel, is used for the robot’ s linear movement. Functioning as the seventh robot axis, it extends the working area and enables precise movement between multiple process stations. Thanks to its reliable rackand-guide technology, the linear axis is highly dynamic, ensuring precision and reliability even during demanding, non-stop industrial operations. As a result, a single robot can effectively serve multiple
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