Robots are increasingly making their mark in the flat glass industry, revolutionizing processes and elevating product quality.
This technological advancement is not only enhancing efficiency but also setting new standards in the industry. As automation continues to evolve, robots are becoming a common sight on shop floors across the flat glass sector, offering a range of advantages that are reshaping the way glass products are manufactured.
One of the frontrunners in exploring the integration of robot technology in the glass industry is LiSEC. With a focus on addressing material-specific considerations, such as the delicate handling of glass to prevent breakage and the utilization of suitable suction cup technology, LiSEC has conducted extensive tests to identify potential challenges and devise optimal solutions for seamless robot integration into production processes.
Robots are currently playing a pivotal role at various stages of flat glass processing, notably in loading/unloading and frame setting in insulating glass production, as well as in the tempering process during tempering bed loading.
In insulating glass production, robots equipped with specialized grippers excel in tasks such as loading from a glass rack onto a vertical line or vice versa, effortlessly handling glass weights of up to 480 kg. This automation not only streamlines the insulating glass production line but also ensures precision and consistency in product quality. The adaptability of the robot’s vacuum suction gripper to different products and glass blocks, coupled with features like linear arrangement of suction pads and extendable suction pads, enables gentle transportation of elements, including those with thermoplastic spacers.
Automated loading and unloading processes with robots eliminate the risk of human errors and ensure a continuous production flow. By maintaining a high level of precision and reliability in the handling of glass panes, robots mitigate the possibility of damage to the glass surface, thus guaranteeing consistent product quality. Moreover, the ability of robots to stack flexibly on various transport containers, in conjunction with glass rack identification systems, adds a layer of versatility to the production process.
Another significant application of robots in insulating glass production is their role in connecting frame production lines with the insulating glass line. Robots in this setting efficiently handle spacer frames with butyl applied on both sides, aligning them accurately and mounting them with precision onto glass panes. This process ensures that the frame is positioned with high accuracy on the glass pane, meeting the required specifications for frame setting. Such systems are compatible with a range of spacer bar types, including rigid spacers and Georgian bars, showcasing the versatility of robots in enhancing various aspects of insulating glass production.
In conclusion, the integration of robots in the flat glass industry represents a significant leap forward in enhancing process efficiency, product quality, and overall operational excellence. As technology continues to advance, the role of robots in glass manufacturing is expected to expand further, driving innovation and setting new benchmarks for the industry.
Source: LISEC with additional information added by GlassBalkan
