Spanish retreader Insa Turbo has invested in a prototype robotisation project in its passenger retreading plant in Aspe, Alicante as part of a strategy to increase efficiencies at the plant and develop what the company calls “the perfect factory layout.”
Co-operation with EDS Robotics
The prototype robotisation project has been developed in conjunction with EDS Robotics, which allows up to three extruder building machines to be connected to a single robot, allowing for a capacity of 1500 tyres per day when used with three builders, but which only requires a single operator.
The prototype, installed in December 2018, is currently connected to two Black Dragon 90 extruder/builders although according to the company, Insa will be looking to add another soon.
“The system uses a visual system to measure dimensions of the tyre, and then communicates the measurements directly to the building machine, eliminating operator error and solving manual handling issues,” explained International Commercial Director Salvador Pérez Lucena. “It is capable of doing the work of six people with no fails.”
According to Pérez, Insa Turbo are looking at how to market the system to other retreaders. “We do not have any qualms about showing our plant to competitors,” he says. “We find that this approach is beneficial to us as we also get feedback from others when we do this. We are currently talking to one of our supplier partners about how to market the innovation. The system is currently only used for car tyres but we are also looking at introducing robotised truck tyre building too,” he adds.
More on the latest developments at Insa Turbo can be read in a more in-depth feature published in the premium editorial section of the new issue of Retreading Business. To read it click here.
