East Manufacturing was recently honored by OTC Daihen together with Airgas for installing the 1,000th OTC Daihen Robotic Arc Welder in their facility.
Through OTC Daihen, East robotic units are seamlessly integrated into trailer production. The arc welding robots and components are highly versatile and increase the company’s trailer line efficiency as well as the consistency in weld patterns and quality.
After building its high-tech manufacturing facility in 2016, East incorporated robotic equipment. To increase productivity and decrease material waste, the robotic equipment served as part placers while robotic welders in both beam and side rail construction areas ensured maximum output.
East’s new robotic arc welding installation is the first of many robots to bring relief into the fabrication assembly area. Early next year, East plans to install additional robotic arc welders in the fabrication area to weld sub-assemblies as well as much larger subassemblies to supply various product lines.
“After the success of our initial robotic installation, we are happy to report that robots will be a big part of our future,” said Howard Booher, president and COO at East. “We’re implementing a plan to best apply automation to increase productivity.”
East’s expectations of the new robotic work cells include:
- Improved efficiency
- Consistency in weld pattern and quality
- Repeatability of assemblies
- Improving overall delivery
- Shorter training cycles
Currently, East robotically welds the fleet line, floor decking, and the main T-beam as well as assorted other flatbed trailer welds. The company reported that they are now working on a floor design concept to expedite East Genesis trailer floors as well as the possible redesign and development of the flatbed line rub-rail fixture.
“This first installation is the first of many robots to bring relief into the fabrication assembly area” said Gary Brown, senior VP of Operations. “Our future robotics plan includes our East Genesis floor assemblies, floor crossmembers and trailer fenders, to mention a few.”
Beyond the company’s installation of arc welders, East Manufacturing has also completed several automation projects, including a Gorbel free-standing bridge crane and conveyors.
For more information, please visit www.eastmfg.com.