Conroe Machine is doing what most machine shops only dream of: hard-turning a family of parts around the clock in an unmanned cell that operates a “self-controlled” process. The company is proof that the dream is achievable for any shop ready to use the talents of today’s automation experts to exploit new technology, like the programmable Equator comparative gauge from Renishaw.

The turning cell, with software and programming developed by CNC programmer James Wardell and robotics technician Jeff Buck, integrates a Fanuc robot with the Equator gauging system, using EZ-IO software to provide comprehensive communication for 100-percent part inspection and auto-compensation of a twin-spindle Okuma 2SP-250 lathe. The cell also boxes and palletizes finished parts. According to the company, the cell paid for itself in an amazing 18 days.

 …