Automation of the sheet cutting process

ATO Signage is an intermational company that specialises in producing illuminated signage and shop equipment for businesses. ATO Signage is growing dynamically by introducing its products and services in Poland and abroad. The expansion of the company’s activities gave rise to the need to expand its machinery park to meet new production standards.

ATO Signage has implemented on its production floor a Mazak OPN3015 laser cutting machine for cutting sheets with maximum dimensions of 3 m x 1.5 m. Along with the laser cutting machine, the company decided to install an automation module connected to the automated storage system, which allowed it to take full advantage of the capabilities of the new processing machine.

The installation of the automation module – Loader with storage system – allowed the automated magazine to be effectively integrated with the laser cutting machine. The loading module has three possible stop locations – above the laser table, above the access station on the long side and in the automatic storage system. The continuous operation of the laser cutting machine is ensured by the connection to the TwinTower automated storage system, which has 81 shelves with a load capacity of 3,000 kg. The total load capacity of the automated storage is up to 243,000 kg. The automated storage area is located outside the hall in a composite panel building. This makes high storage possible in direct connection with the production section, despite the low height of the hall. The entire automation system for the laser cutting process is integrated with the SigmaNEST software.

By implementing the automation of the laser cutting machine, the company gains the ability to fully utilise the production capacity of the new machine, which results in increased efficiency and production standards.