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Layout of e-polish line!

2002

Hello,

We are in the process of installing Stainless Steel E-Polish line to our shop floor. Since our main operation is CNC grinding, we are inexperienced in many aspects of e-polishing. I would appreciate if you could make suggestions to the following issue: We would like to utilize this system for deburring purposes. There are total of 9 tanks. Dimensions of each tank: 24"x24"x24" . We have space limitations. We can barely fit the entire system to the designated space in the shop if we prefer straight line arrangement. It is doable however we have concerns. We thought either U-shaped or L-shaped (for example keep the 3 tanks of pretreatment perpendicular to the other tanks) could be considered so that we use the space more efficiently. This system is going to be manual. We may consider robotizing the handling in the future and convert the whole thing to automatic line. What do you think is the best arrangement in our case? and what are the pros and cons of not having straight line layout for this kind of e-polishing system?

Thanks in advance,

Best Regards,

Tez B [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
- Staunton, Virginia

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Hi Tez. If the tanks are in a straight line the system can be automated with one programmed hoist. If in two lines, two programmed hoists will be required. So if you are seriously entertaining future automation, the straight line arrangement is quite important.

Further, a single wet processing island makes it a bit easier to keep the wastewater dripping contained.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002

Wouldn't it be possible to use a gantry style (2 axis) crane or robot to service an "L" or "U" shaped line?

Chris White[working with Tez on the project]
- Staunton, Virginia
2002

Anything is possible, of course. But considering the efficiency of production, and the safety of operators who may occasionally be around the programmed crane, I don't think 2-axis cranes belong in most such shops.

If there isn't room for a straight line design, when the time comes for automation, you could use two cranes for the two lines, and automated shuttle carts to get from one line to the other.

You might find my article "Plating Shops for the New Millenium" useful. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002