Cambot® parts handler offers reliable, precise parts handling

Manufacturers can use any of several technologies to move parts in an automated system. They range from simple electrical solenoid valves and air cylinders to complex servo-controlled motors and controls. When reliability, high load capacity, accuracy and simplicity are desired, cam-actuated Cambot® parts handlers are the ideal solution.

Engineered Abrasives of Alsip, Ill., has manufactured turnkey automated abrasive and shot peening systems since 1935. The QS 9000-, ISO 14001- and Ford Q1-certified company designs systems to meet the 24/7 production requirements of high-volume machined component manufacturers such as Ford, GM and Chrysler. Integrating the conveyor system with the abrasive blast equipment is key to achieving reliable high-speed throughput, and the link between these systems is a Camco Model 900RPP Cambot®.

The Cambot takes the part from the conveyor and automatically loads it into the rotary table blasting equipment in less than four seconds. The same movement is used to unload parts that have made a complete trip through the blasting section of the machine. The distance between the conveyor and blasting load station is approximately 2 meters, with a vertical lift of 140 millimeters. The total arm and part weight is 150 lbs (68 kg). The Cambot® arm grasps the part, rises and swings 180 degrees, all in 2.7 seconds. With the dual grippers, the total system throughput is 280 parts per hour.

More information on the IMC Camco Cambot® line of parts handlers can be found at: www.camcoindex.com/handlers.htm.

For more information on this and other Engineered Abrasives systems, follow this link: www.engineeredabrasives.com.

The myth of “lubed for life”

In an attempt to sway designers into “worry-free” options, some manufacturers trumpet the phrase “lubed for life” in promoting their mechanical power transmission devices. When it comes to gear boxes and index drives, there is no such thing as lubed for life. IMC-Camco-Ferguson provides lubrication fittings and an oil sight glass for most of its products.

Lubrication is critical to guarantee long life and reliability in any application. Seal wear, heat, oxidation and outside contaminants can all contribute to eventual loss or breakdown of lubricants. When designing an indexer into your system, be sure to include access to the fittings and sight glass to facilitate oil level inspection and lubricant change at regular intervals.

The proper specification of the lubricant is also imperative. IMC-Camco-Ferguson recommends the following:

• General applications: ISO 220-grade oils with EP additives (Mobilgear 630 or Shell Omala 220).
• Severe applications or for longer life: Oil that meets API-GL-5 & Mil Spec 2105D / E parameters such as Mobilube HD Plus 80W90 (conventional) or Mobil Delvac Synthetic Gear Oil 75W90 (synthetic).
• Worm gear reducers: Mobil 600W Cylinder oil (conventional) or Mobil SHC-634 oil (synthetic). Do not use oil with EP additives.
• Bearings with grease fittings: NGLI #3 bearing grease with an ISO 220 base oil such as Mobilgrease XHP 223 (replacement for Mobilith AW-3).

Bearings without grease fittings are lubricated by the oil bath within the index drive. Units with grease fittings should be lubricated every 1,000 hours. Oil should be changed every 2,000 hours or every six months, whichever comes first.

With proper lubrication maintenance, index drives can run “worry-free” for many years. IMC-Camco-Ferguson offers general and specific maintenance manuals with more information at: www.camcoindex.com/CamcoDLMgr.