Nowadays, robot systems are becoming more and more present and take over important tasks in melting operations – especially when it comes to safety and ergonomics issues. Another milestone in foundry automation is the Automated Robotic Melt Shop (ARMS™) system. ARMS™ is a patented technology from the Inductotherm Group in which the robot carries out dangerous tasks directly at the furnace, shifting the operator's working area out of the danger zone and into a protected control station. The main task of ARMS™ is to take over working steps such as the complete melting process control, earth fault and temperature measuring, sample removal, addition of additives and the control of temperature measuring devices.
Six ARMS™ systems actively in operation, further systems in planning
“There are currently six ARMS™ systems actively in operation and one in order. The first system was installed in 2008 and is still fully operating,” Thomas Kähler stated, Managing Director of Inductotherm Deutschland GmbH. Three 20t steel shell furnaces and one 25t steel shell furnace using ARMS™ are at John Deere Waterloo Foundry Operations. Lodge Cast Iron has two ARMS™ systems for four 9t steel shell furnaces, while another system for two 9t steel shell furnaces is planned.
Why ARMS™ was specifically developed for melting operations
“ARMS™ was specifically developed for the needs of the foundry. The aim was to move the operator from the dangerous area around the furnace to an administrative and safety position,” Kähler explains. This plays a crucial role in times when workplaces in hot, dusty and noisy environments are becoming increasingly unattractive. “ Thanks to years of development and continuous optimization in practical foundry operations, this system is important for the future operation of modern melting plants,” Kähler added.
Despite the high degree of automation, the working steps of such a system should always be monitored, as Kähler confirms. This is usually done by video monitoring, with the operator being in a safe control room thanks to the ARMS™ system.
About Inductotherm Corp.:
Inductotherm is a world leader in induction technology, manufacturing induction melting, holding, heating and casting systems for all metals and other special applications.
As the world's largest manufacturer of induction furnaces, Inductotherm has proven technologies for all types of melting operations. Customized solutions are always developed for a wide range of applications, from metal melting and heat treatment to the production of automotive components.
