Rotary Power, part of the British Engines Group, has invested over £3m in an automated DMG MORI machining cell that has been installed at the company’s manufacturing facility.
The automated capability of the new cell has improved Rotary Power’s manufacturing efficiency by reducing the set-up time by 87.5%. The average cycle time has also been reduced by 33% thanks to the machine’s latest cutting technology. Measuring 19m by 10m, the customised cell installed at Rotary Power consists of one automated robot travelling between two machines via a 13m track.
The robot automatically loads and unloads parts, sets the machines and collects completed products. The cell is primarily used to manufacture components for Rotary Power’s range of motors and pumps. The cell became fully operational at the end of 2021 and it sets Rotary Power apart by improving quality and reducing wastage. The new machine also standardises the length of time each tool is used, by assigning a tool life span. Removing set-up variations in this way improves consistency whilst reducing wastage on consumable items.
Ian McGeorge, Manufacturing Manager at Rotary Power, who has been leading the project said: “The addition of the new cell represents an exciting time for the company. It has allowed us to position ourselves more competitively within the market by improving our quality and reducing costs.”
A huge effort has been made by the team at Rotary Power to prepare for the implementation of the new cell and the business looks forward to seeing the positive impact that this investment will have in the future. Part of the British Engines Group, Rotary Power is a manufacturing company based in South Shields that specialises in the design, development and manufacture of hydraulic pumps and motors. Rotary Power has three subsidiaries in the USA, Germany and India, as well as a worldwide network of distributors and agents.
