Central linear pallet storage WORK-L

With WASSERMANN TECHNOLOGIE GmbH is setting high standards in CNC automation with a flexible and future-oriented new development. The WORK-L central linear pallet storage system is designed for 10 to 130 pallets and follows a holistic development approach.

The WASSERMANN WORK-L storage system combines unmanned production, automatic production planning and maximum adaptability to create an efficient overall solution for modern machining. Both when designing new systems and when retrofitting existing machinery, the WORK-L can open up innovative perspectives as a scalable and resource-saving solution.

Minimized set-up times and maximum variability

Flexibility and the ability to react quickly are decisive factors, particularly in the production of small batches and a high number of variants. This is precisely where the modern storage system from WASSERMANN can bring its strengths to the fore. WORK-L creates the ideal structural conditions for set-up parallel to production time and consistent maximization of spindle hours.

Multi-machine pallet systems have also established themselves for small batch sizes and have increasingly paved the way for unmanned production. The WORK-L continues along this path: not just as a linear pallet storage system, but as the central backbone of automated production processes.

Automated production made to measure

Whether identical machining centers or different manufacturers and designs: the WORK-L integrates a wide variety of machine types and brings them to a central level. Different pallet sizes and transfer weights are no problem: WASSERMANN has designed the WORK-L for transfer weights from 300 to 5,000 kg.

Individual versions are also available in terms of height, number of shelving levels and overall length: The WORK-L can be designed for specific applications and projects. The linear pallet storage system has also been developed with growth and scalability in mind; subsequent expansion, e.g. with additional machines or set-up stations, is virtually “pre-programmed”.

360° handling: full access from all sides

The WORK-L has a universal handling device with a 360° axis of rotation that can carry out effortless loading processes from all sides. Compared to conventional linear storage systems, this all-round accessibility is a truly unique selling point and offers many advantages in practical use.

The free 360° access opens up decisive possibilities for a flexible machine arrangement and store floor architecture. This in turn allows material flows to be optimized and processing stations to be arranged according to the production sequence – even retrospectively. In addition, the design always saves space thanks to the telescopic forks fitted as standard, which creates particular added value, especially in confined hall spaces.

In addition to the numerous standard features of the WORK-L, direct loading onto the machine table or onto a double changer in front of the machine is also possible as an option. In this way, limited available space on the one hand and the requirement for optimized pallet change times due to short processing times on the other can be implemented individually.

Unmanned production and setup parallel to production time

A key aspect of modern automation is the sustainable elimination of non-productive times. With up to 99 storage locations, the Work-L offers sufficient capacity to prepare workpieces for unmanned shifts. Loading stations with 4 x 90° rotary guidance or as a turn/tilt variant with a horizontal-vertical changeover are available for set-up processes.

The WASSERMANN solution therefore offers ergonomic benefits, reduced physical strain and shorter set-up times, particularly when handling clamping towers on pallets. In line with automation and Industry 4.0, the stations are also prepared for automatic robot loading at a later stage. This results in a consistent automation concept from the pallet to the finishing process.

Intuitive cell control with intelligent production logic

The control system is a central lever in automated production. The WORK-L is therefore designed for easy-to-understand operator guidance with a touchscreen and clearly structured menu logic. In order to keep the integration into existing IT landscapes flexible, three variants of WASSERMANN Automation, Soflex and Procam are available for the host computer technology.

A large memory volume within the PLC control enables the stocking of numerous CNC programs and tool lists, which is common in small series production. Other important features of the system include automatic production planning, predictive resource checks, tool and capacity comparison and OEE analysis in real time. Overall, this provides a secure foundation for transparent, data-based production control – with maximized spindle hours and a high level of safety in unmanned shifts as a result.

Digital interfaces for integrated production 4.0

The WORK-L cell controller has numerous standardized interfaces for future-proof, digitalized processes. This allows ERP and MES systems as well as central CNC programming, robot cells, measuring machines and deburring systems to be integrated.

For older existing machines, WASSERMANN provides individual IT protocols as required in order to integrate machines with older control variants into modern automation structures.

New system or retrofit: WORK-L makes production fit for the future

A decisive argument in favor of WORK-L is its modularity. In addition to integration as a new production system, the linear pallet storage system is ideal for retrofitting to existing machining centers. Particularly in mature production environments, the system enables the integration of different machine manufacturers and a combination of different pallet sizes.

Thanks to its high adaptability to existing space conditions, the WORK-L can be expanded step by step at any time. This means that automation is not a complete rebuild, but an economical further development of existing structures.

WORK L: Modern production through advanced integration and automation

With the WORK-L central linear pallet storage system, WASSERMANN TECHNOLOGIE GmbH offers a scalable solution for demanding production environments. The system combines numerous factors of modern, automated and efficient machining into a holistic solution.

The result: maximum spindle hours, reduced non-productive times and an economically viable basis for unmanned production.