Replacement of 28-year-old cells
In simple terms, such a cylinder consists of a base tube, a pipe (pull-tube) for the hydraulic oil and a plunger (Plunger-Rod End) which makes the movement in the tube. First, a coupler (base) is welded to the tube, and then the weld is brushed to remove possible residue from the weld so that the coating can adhere optimally.
The pipe (pull-tube) must then be welded 100% leak-tight to the coupling piece of the base pipe. As is customary in the automotive sector, this process is subject to very high requirements, which once validated cannot be easily changed. Two 28-year-old custom-built welding cells, with old-generation Panasonic welding robots, were finally in need of replacement, In addition, Power Packer also wanted to increase the efficiency. “No more intermediate stocks, shorter lead times, product traceability, a leak-free pull-tube attachment, and guaranteed uptime,” lists manufacturing engineer Peter Meijering.