SILO2 micro‑fulfillment system unlocks 24/7 automated machining for heavy‑duty pump components
A world‑leading peristaltic hose pump manufacturer has transformed its component production by integrating the SILO2 micro-fulfillment system with a new CNC turn‑mill center and robotic gantry loader, enabling shorter lead times, higher flexibility and fully automated order‑driven manufacturing.
Here’s their story:
To further increase quality, speed and flexibility in pump component production, a leading heavy‑duty peristaltic pump manufacturer has invested in a new automated machining cell centered around the SILO2 micro-fulfillment system. The SILO2 works in concert with a high‑specification CNC turn‑mill center and a customized gantry loader to support a 24/7, unattended operation and faster response to customer demand.
Previously, the plant’s aging machining center could no longer meet capacity requirements, forcing the company to outsource certain components and extend lead times. By recalling these parts in‑house and connecting them to the SILO‑enabled machining cell, the manufacturer has regained full control over production and quality while significantly reducing lead times. Machining times for many components are now half or even a third of what was achievable before, with some parts completed in 24 hours instead of two or three days.
The SILO2 micro-fulfillment system acts as the intelligent backbone, storing all work‑holding jaws, grippers, jaw changers, raw material and finished parts in a compact footprint. A key advantage is that warehouse operators can load and unload the SILO2 while machining continues, ensuring continuous material availability without interrupting production.
Multiple access openings turn the SILO2 into a true micro‑fulfillment hub for the machining line. A telescopic, extractable access point serves as the main deposit and retrieval station for operators, while additional unmanned access openings are dedicated to the gantry loader and run around the clock. This configuration allows the gantry to automatically pick the correct jaws, tools and materials for each job, enabling rapid, unmanned changeovers between components and production orders.
By integrating the SILO2 with the turn‑mill center and gantry loader, the plant has eliminated the need for stockpiling semi‑finished parts and simplified scheduling and planning. Labor once tied up in manual handling and changeovers has been redeployed to higher‑value activities, while a single‑set‑up machining strategy improves accuracy and reduces handling‑related safety risks.
There is also direct digital communication with other systems. The machining line can connect to the company’s proprietary ordering platform to automatically retrieve work orders for pumps and spare parts, with the SILO2 providing the right materials and tooling at the right time. This connectivity turns the SILO2 centered operation into a fully automated, order‑driven manufacturing process that increases available working hours, shortens lead times and enhances the manufacturer’s ability to respond quickly to customer needs.
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