Eriez® Adds State-Of-The-Art Robotic Welder To Support Its Erie Workforce

Eriez®, world authority in advanced technology for magnetic, vibratory and inspection applications, recently announced the purchase of a sophisticated robotic welder designed to improve efficiency, maintain accuracy and more quickly and economically meet increasing production volumes, according to Tim Shuttleworth, President and CEO. Shuttleworth went on to say, "With August being a record month for order bookings, this capital equipment will be instantly utilized."

To help determine if the technology was right for Eriez, the engineering team obtained a robotic welder test unit with the support of a local Erie vendor to evaluate it. The company used it to help with a very large vibratory feeder order. "A component in the feeder drive lends itself to be done automatically," explains John Miles, Director of Operations. The unit quickly proved its value. "It can complete 14 in one hour whereas only four of the same components can be completed manually in that same time," he said.

After analyzing the unit for three weeks, the engineering team determined that an even larger and more advanced unit would be best for Eriez' needs. For cost justification, Eriez sent its vibratory feeder trays to the robot welder manufacturer. Testing proved that the unit Eriez planned to purchase would be capable of completing 90 percent of the company's vibratory trays.

Robotic welders offer a wide variety of advantages. Welds are more consistent and meticulous when performed by robots. Productivity and speed are improved, while there is also a significant cost savings.

Eriez' robotic welder will arrive in November. The engineering team and welders are currently collaborating with the local Erie vendor to optimize the unit's simulation software and determine other applications where the unit can be used.

Eriez' staff of welders will continue to be responsible for welding jobs that require an extraordinary amount of skill and customization, while the robotic welder will handle standardized tasks. "By gaining new proficiencies, our welding staff will be well prepared to assist in other departments when needed," said Shuttleworth. "They are acquiring new knowledge, especially about computer software, that will be an invaluable asset throughout their careers," he added.

"To be very clear, there is no downsizing planned at Eriez," said Shuttleworth. He continued, "Eriez has grown by leaps and bounds over the past few years, and we are confident that growth will persist. The purchase of the robotic welder helps prepare us for the next growth surge and makes us even more competitive on a global basis."

Eriez is dedicated to producing the most economical, effective and innovative solutions for customers. "Eriez builds the strongest and highest quality products using our financial commitment to productivity improvements," said Shuttleworth.

Eriez is recognized as world authority in advanced technology for magnetic, vibratory and inspection applications. The company's magnetic lift and separation, metal detection, x-ray, materials feeding, screening, conveying and controlling equipment have application in the process, metalworking, packaging, recycling, mining, aggregate and textile industries. Eriez manufactures and markets these products through ten international facilities located on six continents.

SOURCE: Eriez