In the age of the smart factory, many industrial processes are already largely automated, including synchronous motor assembly. One of the key steps in this process is mounting permanent magnets onto the rotor. This is where Furtwangen-based IEF-Werner GmbH comes in - a highly specialized manufacturer of components and systems for automation technology, including turnkey systems for fully automated processing. The rotor mounting system uses the latest technology from the MOVI-C modular automation range launched earlier this year as the focus of the SEW-EURODRIVE GmbH & Co KG stand at HANNOVER MESSE 2017.

The cornerstone of the rotor mounting system is a rotary indexing table with four positions. In the first position, the rotor is clamped in a mobile support with two mandrels. This process can be carried out manually or with the help of a handling robot. In position two, a plasma laser is used to remove any oil or contamination using a technique that does not damage the equipment or the environment. In the third step, a two-axis linear handling system positions the glue nozzle against the rotor, which is secured in a vertical alignment. The cross-section of the laminated core is many-sided, and the adhesive is applied to its external surfaces as a smooth bead of glue. The rare earth magnets are transported to the system in blister packs. A gantry system with a suction device removes the magnets and deposits them in a row on a small conveyor belt. Depending on the length and circumference of the rotors, a gripper then takes hold of the required number of magnets from above and presses them onto the adhesive at a predefined pressure.