Specialist relies on TEKA extraction and filter technology for robot welding
Quietly but swiftly, the new OTC robot moves back and forth on its axis, which shows it the way to two work areas. Here, machine components with very complex welded constructions are waiting for automated machining on manually loaded turning tables. Every step is precisely programmed for fast machining times in large-scale production. Two large-format extraction bonnets suspended from the ceiling above each work area carefully collect the welding fumes, which are fed into the FILTERCUBE extraction and filtering system via a central piping system. "Large series for toolmaking are no problem for us," explains Olaf Kramer, plant manager at Herbert Ackermann KG, adding, "but we are also known as a specialist for robot welding in prototype construction for special machine building."

In the field of robot welding, Herbert Ackermann KG in Münsterland has had experience since 1997 and is therefore one of the experienced specialists today. The know-how and the components manufactured with the highest precision and extremely short delivery times have provided the company with healthy growth for many years. The company, founded in 1947, is already in its second generation and is at home in traffic technology with barriers, tubular frames and tubular clamps for fastening traffic signs, tubular railings, bollards and impact protection bars, but also in toolmaking and machine and special mould construction. Customers experience solution-oriented support from a single source through trained employees, master craftsmen and designers - from project analysis, machine requirements, strategic implementation in the CAD department to execution in robot welding if required.

"Due to our very good experience with welding robots and the good order situation, we started planning a new large-scale plant for automated welding about two years ago," recalls Olaf Kramer. TEKA was also involved at an early stage in the planning of the system for the extraction and filter technology, also because there had already been a trusting cooperation with TEKA since 2014.

Selective extraction in changing work areas
"The task was to plan an optimal system for selective extraction in two work areas, since the robots approach the workpieces alternately," explains TEKA managing director Simon Telöken, who personally supports the Ackermann company. The decision was made in favour of a Filtercube 4H with 11 kW power of the latest generation and central piping to the 3 x 3 m extraction bonnets mounted above the turning tables. The output of the system is regulated via two motorised shut-off dampers in conjunction with a modern control system with frequency converter. This was planned in direct consultation with the robot manufacturer OTC. The filter cube has a generous filter surface of 100 square metres and is thus also well equipped for long-lasting welding tasks. In order to minimise the noise development in the rather quiet production environment, it was additionally equipped with a sound-insulating housing. An upstream spark trap also provides extra safety.