Mabotec automates an existing Doosan VC 510 with a RoboJob Mill-Assist Essential
A low-threshold robot cell for small batches from 5 parts
Mabotec automates an existing Doosan VC 510 with a RoboJob Mill-Assist Essential
Mabotec in Waalwijk, the Netherlands, specialises in hydraulic manifolds, mostly as single pieces. Even so, it chose to automate: since 2016, a RoboJob Mill-Assist Essential has automated an existing 3-axis Doosan VC 510, making small batches from 5 parts run automatically and showing young employees what robotics can do.
Key facts
- Company: Mabotec BV (Manifold Boortechniek)
- Location: Waalwijk, North Brabant, the Netherlands
- Founded: 1996
- Employees: approx. 20
- Industries: Machine construction, Subcontracting
- RoboJob products: Mill-Assist Essential
- CNC machine brands: DN Solutions (formerly Doosan)
- Automated machines: Doosan VC 510 (3-axis)
- RoboJob customer since: 2016
- Key results: small batches from 5 parts automated; existing machine retrofitted with robot interface; installed in a few days
Hydraulic manifolds from Waalwijk
Mabotec, short for Manifold Boortechniek, has produced hydraulic control blocks since 1996, mostly as single pieces and occasionally in small to large series. Several of its CNC machines already ran unmanned at night. Mabotec focuses on quality and efficiency: it is ISO 9001 certified, uses a Zoller tool management system linked to its CAD/CAM software, and is a recognised training company for young skilled workers.
Why automate: efficiency and the next generation
Mabotec has little staff turnover, but its experienced team is getting older.
“We need to find a new influx of young people. That’s why we train young talents and we endeavour to promote our industry to them. That is only possible by an employer also focusing on innovation at every level, and hence automation.”
— Mabotec, Waalwijk
Mabotec wanted to automate to increase efficiency and output, and to make robotics tangible for its young employees, several of whom were still at school. It looked for a low-threshold system that could automate small batches from as few as 5 parts.
The simplest solution on the market
Mabotec first met RoboJob at a machine supplier’s open house and compared other solutions. It deliberately chose product handling as the easiest approach for its parts, and RoboJob offered the simplest solution: the Mill-Assist Essential, with very easy controls.
A Mill-Assist Essential on an existing Doosan VC 510
In March 2016, the robot was installed on an existing 3-axis Doosan VC 510. The machine had no robot interface, but RoboJob took charge and coordinated directly with machine supplier Dormac.
“RoboJob came to measure up everything beforehand and the installation itself was completed in a few days. After that our operators were also trained on the spot, using our own workpieces. And then we could immediately set to work.”
— Mabotec, Waalwijk
The result: a good investment
“Looking back, the move to automation was a good decision. For us it has been a good investment, and we’re continuing to look closely into how we can get even more out of it.”
— Mabotec, Waalwijk
Frequently asked questions
Which machine did Mabotec automate with RoboJob?
Mabotec in Waalwijk, the Netherlands, automated an existing 3-axis Doosan VC 510 vertical machining centre with a RoboJob Mill-Assist Essential. The company has been a RoboJob customer since 2016.
Can a Doosan VC 510 be automated?
Yes. Mabotec runs a RoboJob Mill-Assist Essential on a Doosan VC 510. Robland automated a Doosan DNM 650 with a Mill-Assist Essential. See all DN Solutions automation projects.
Is automation worthwhile for a company that mostly makes single pieces?
Yes. Mabotec mostly makes hydraulic manifolds as single pieces, yet automated to run small batches from as few as 5 parts. It chose the RoboJob Mill-Assist Essential for its low threshold and very easy controls.
Can a machine without a robot interface be automated?
Yes. Mabotec’s Doosan VC 510 had no robot interface. RoboJob coordinated directly with machine supplier Dormac, completed the installation in a few days and trained the operators on site with Mabotec’s own workpieces.
Can automation help attract young talent?
For Mabotec, a recognised training company, it was one of the reasons to automate: the RoboJob Mill-Assist makes robotics tangible for young employees, several of whom are still at school, and shows that the company invests in innovation.