Renewable Engine Supports Robot Cell Official Opening
Supported by funding from Renewable Engine, Queen’s University Belfast have recently installed an Advanced Rotational Moulding Automation Cell (ARMAC). This was officially opened by Professor Chris Johnston, Pro Vice Chancellor for Engineering and Physical Sciences, on Tuesday 23rd March 2021.
The total investment in ARMAC and its cutting-edge technology is in the region of £350,000; with the Renewable Engine Project making a significant contribution towards the cost of the cell.
The ARMAC technology improves manufacturing process efficiency by utilising the latest state-of-the-art autonomous roto-moulding process known as robo-moulding; which is upwards of 50% more efficient in terms of energy use compared with conventional machinery. It is the only system of its kind within the UK & Ireland.
The new cell is composed of two industrial robots. One robot has been modified to carry out rotational moulding using an electronically heated mould and has the capability to manufacture complex multi-layer foam and fibre reinforced parts, supporting the work carried out in the Renewable Engine Research Programme. The other robot uses a vision system for part location and placement and can be modified to carry additional equipment, enabling it to conduct post moulding inspection exercises and provide crucial quality control feedback.
The technology behind the two robots is unique, representing the state-of-the-art for rotational moulding technology and ARMAC will be an invaluable resource to the industry in the UK and Ireland. Find out more about the technology here: https://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/PolymerProcessingResearchCentre/