1st MTA launches advanced automation solutions from Breuning IRCO | Engineer Live

Under a partnership agreement, 1st Machine Tool Accessories (1st MTA) is introducing to the UK and Irish markets a range of bar feeders, load/unload systems and custom solutions manufactured by German automation specialist Breuning IRCO.

The equipment is suitable for automating CNC sliding-head and fixed-head turning centres, including multi-tasking lathes, and also mill-turn machining centres, rotary transfer machines and special purpose machine tools.

This strategic collaboration introduces a new era of innovative standard and tailor-made automation solutions for CNC machine tools, including short and long bar feeders, workpiece handling systems and hybrid automation arrangements, that will bring significant benefits to manufacturers seeking to enhance productivity, efficiency and profitability.

As a result of the new partnership, 1st MTA is able to offer local expertise and consultation to users, as well as installation services and ongoing after-sales support, all designed to maximise the performance and longevity of Breuning IRCO automation systems.

The modular design of the products allows for fully customised solutions that fit the individual requirements of the customer. Irrespective of material size, shape, length or diameter, the systems adapt seamlessly to a manufacturing operation and offer a high level of flexibility. The loading and unloading systems for handling individual billets and workpieces have compact footprints to fit into tight production environments, allowing customers to maximise the use of floor space.

Notable is the advanced vibration damping built into the bar feeds, which improves the reliability of feed and positioning, as well as machining stability, especially when turning long or heavy bars, or indeed any bar at high speed.

Accurate alignment of stock with the machine tool and precise synchronisation of bar feed and machine ensures smooth operation, efficient production and superior process control. Feeding of stock is consistent, resulting in high quality components, few machining errors, and minimal scrap and material wastage. Added benefits are that tooling lasts longer, saving cost, and the absence of vibration also extends the operational life of the machine itself.

A wide range of material sizes from 3mm to 104mm in diameter can be handled up to 6m long (optionally 10m). Many different bar cross sections are compatible with the systems, not only round and hexagonal but also octagonal, square, rectangular and parallelogrammical.

A broad spectrum of materials may be processed, from light metals to tough alloys, offering versatility of use across multiple industries and types of production plant, including autonomous production lines and flexible manufacturing systems. Energy-saving features reduce power consumption, contributing to cost-effective and sustainable manufacturing operations.

The build quality of Breuning IRCO products is highly regarded. Robust, durable materials used in their construction are designed to withstand harsh industrial environments and are engineered to ensure long service life. Likewise, the industrially hardened components require less frequent maintenance compared with other makes of bar feed, translating into lower operational costs.

One of the benefits of Breuning IRCO systems is that they work with existing CNC systems. Intuitive interfaces designed for easy integration with all variants of machine tool control minimise setup time, simplify maintenance and allow operators to manage the systems with ease, contributing to smooth production workflows and minimal costly downtime.

Whether a customer is purchasing an automation system via a machine tool importer or retrofitting one to existing CNC plant, 1st MTA together with Breuning IRCO will provide a solution tailored to the user's specific requirements. Once in place, it will enhance precision, achieve faster cycle times and higher throughput, and streamline production, delivering a powerful route to driving efficiency, reducing costs and improving the overall quality of CNC machining operations.

In conclusion, the automation equipment, the quality of which is undisputed, can be integrated seamlessly with virtually any CNC machine tool. Manual intervention is minimised, saving labour cost and minimising the risk of human error. Extended periods of continuous, uninterrupted, unattended running, often around the clock, result in elevated levels of long-term production efficiency, leading to rapid return on investment.