Assembly machine optimises tube-forming production

A new tube-forming machine designed to reduce the risk of assembly errors and enable production monitoring and optimisation has recently been launched by Danfoss Power Solutions.

The global mobile and industrial hydraulics supplier states that its new WalformConnect tube-forming machine includes a range of digital features, data tracking, and cloud connectivity.

Designed to help customers ensure correct forming of high-performance hydraulic tubes, the machine reduces the risk of assembly errors with a barcode scanner that verifies the correct tooling to use. In addition, the machine automatically indicates the compatible clamping jaw part number and tube parameters.

The company notes that the WalformConnect machine enables in-depth production monitoring by capturing a range of real-time data, such as cycle times, machine temperature, and tool clamping status. Operators and supervisors can access information such as the proportion of a production lot that is complete, and the cycle time per order.

The ability to monitor multiple machines in the cloud facilitates operational planning. In addition, historical production data and information on past orders can be saved on an individual machine or in the cloud, enabling local or remote analysis to help improve production. The machine can be fully integrated into a customer’s manufacturing process, allowing for paperless production with orders sent directly from an enterprise resource planning system.

Real-time monitoring provides maintenance teams with information to support error resolution, while remote software updates and failure analysis further reduce the risk of production delays.

The WalformConnect machine is designed for the forming of steel and stainless steel tubing in 6 mm to 42 mm sizes and is used in various industry applications including agriculture, construction, manufacturing, transport, oil and gas.

“Our new WalformConnect machine will help make it even easier to ensure fast and safe tube assembly through its suite of digital capabilities. With complete visibility into production data, supervisors can enhance efficiency, ensure quality, and minimize the risk of unplanned downtime. WalformConnect is a win-win for anyone that wants streamlined production and absolute tube-fitting reliability in high-pressure and high-vibration applications where safety is crucial,” said Danfoss Power Solutions global product management leader: connectors Christian Kuenstel.