An assembly line often starts with a single joining process where objects are mechanically fastened and in doing so, it is essential the tightening is performed correctly. With no margin for error, getting those joints fastened and tightened in the right way offers an obvious operational advantage.
Or in other words, a world of opportunities for those who get it right from the very start.
Quality, safety, sustainability and profitability, all in one
Historically, tightening tools were developed for manual production methods. The result is that different tools are needed for different tasks. And with manual processes always comes the risk of work-related injuries and quality issues. Something can cause costly downtime, reworks and recalls that in turn consume more material and energy.
Taking into account the number of fastening and tightening operations along an assembly line, this is a big deal in achieving your safety, profitability and sustainability objectives.
Tightening up your fastening processes with electric tools
When facing the challenges fastening and tightening entails, manufacturers can turn to the power of electricity. By moving from air powered to electrical powered tightening tools you get it all. Increased flexibility and better process control making quality control easier. But also improved ergonomics by introducing more operator-friendly tools to help them get the work done.
Ergonomics
Handheld and cordless electric tools that are lightweight, small, and designed to be handled in cramped areas help address operator fatigue. Characteristics that all make for a better and safer working environment for operators.
Flexibility
Electric powered tools that cover a wide torque range save time and reduce operational complexity. If equipped with an integrated controller the tool can be managed and easily configured to the production system. This makes adjustments of production lines with mixed production and product variance easy.
Quality control
Electric tools can be equipped with a controller and sensors to control and monitor torque and angle. Many electric tools have the capacity to collect, transfer and store data facilitating quality control and traceability throughout the tightening process. Advantages that reduce costs for quality checks, reworks, and recalls.
The Atlas Copco roadmap to smarter manufacturing
Smart Integrated Assembly is our concept for industrial manufacturers looking to transform and implement Smart Factories. It encompasses our ecosystem of tools, hardware, software and services solutions providing unrivalled competitive value in each step of the customers’ product manufacturing cycles. The result is more efficient, flexible, adaptable, and safe manufacturing processes that support reduced downtime, better use of materials and energy and a substantial waste reduction.
Joint Fastened - our portfolio of products and solutions
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To sum it all up
“Joint Fastened” is the first of five steps in the Smart Integrated Assembly concept which also include “Station Controlled”, “Station Automated”, Line Connected” and finally, “Factory Integrated”.
A comprehensive Industry 4.0 offering that starts with that very first fastened joint and ends with a fully integrated Smart Factory. Manufacturing processes reengineered by Atlas Copco. Getting it right from the start.