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Smarter Tending Starts Here: Why the RCX Works for CNC Milling



Staying ahead in the manufacturing industry is crucial. That is why Automation Within Reach (AWR) constantly upgrades and engineers innovative machine tending systems. During the bi-annual 2023 Gosigerfest, AWR launched its newest Flex Series technology, the RCX mill tending solution. This automated machine tending series will help optimize manufacturing production by increasing throughput and reducing downtime.

Designed for Daily Demands

Automation can solve common bottlenecks in manufacturing-like limited production capacity, unexpected downtime and labor shortages-allowing for increased throughput and streamlined operations. The RCX from AWR's Flex Series is suited for manufacturers running high-mix, low-volume production where efficiency and flexibility are critical. Its three-sided shelf design lets the operator tend to raw and finished materials while the robot tends to the milling machine, with operations requiring consistent loading and unloading across OP10/OP20/30 processes.

Maximizing spindle utilization is an essential benchmark in the manufacturing industry, as spindle time informs the time the machine is actually operating. With the RCX's patented MultiGrip workholding, the system can run up to four different OP10/OP20/30 parts. It helps ensure a smooth transition between diverse part geometries and can run multiple operations without an operator involved. The three loading options and the MultiGrip end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) features on the RCX allow flexibility and optimize the manufacturing workflow, whether the operator is managing a small job shop or a corporate facility.

Currently, most manufacturers are experiencing the challenge of finding highly skilled workers. Integrating an automated CNC machine tending robot enables a shop to run lights-out manufacturing, enabling operations to continue during second and third shifts without an operator, even overnight. This approach maximizes equipment utilization while addressing workforce shortages. In today's competitive manufacturing market, investing in automated CNC machine tending solutions delivers immediate results by optimizing production.

Specs at a Glance

  • Designed and engineered for seamless integration and daily workflow
  • Part Dimensions (WxDxH): Up to 8.5" x 8.0" x 9.0"
  • Maximum payload (jaws + part): 25 lbs.
  • Floor Space - 8' x 9'
  • FANUC robot
  • MultiGrip: Up to three vises per CNC.

These specifications provide the versatility and power needed to automate a wide range of milling applications, making the RCX a compact yet capable system for manufacturers looking to expand their production capacity confidently.

Get Up and Running Quickly

AWR supports its customers throughout the entire process, including post-installation. Integrating an automated unit is no small feat-AWR understands the learning curve of a new system with a company's current workflow. That is why it offers customers full set-up support, training, replacement parts and even financing opportunities. The team also provides remote support and customization options to meet specific shop floor requirements and production goals.

Authored by Automation Within Reach

For more information contact:

Ryan Hegman

Director of Sales-Standard Products

Automation Within Reach

108 McDonough St.

Dayton, OH

Cell: 612 865-3409

ryan.hegman@automationwithinreach.com

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