Mill Auto Parts Loader

Mill Automatic Parts Loader

Take your production to the next level

The Haas Automatic Parts Loader (APL) is a simple way to automate part production on Haas VF-1 through VF-2 size vertical machining centres, including SS, VM and YT models.

The easy-to-use interface in the Haas control guides you through a simple, step-by-step setup process that “teaches” the APL arm its positions, and has you fully automated in minutes, loading and unloading parts for unattended machining.

Note: Includes a Remote Jog Handle when ordered with a machine.

  • All-inclusive design, with plug-and-play
  • Haas VF-1 through VF-2 size VMCs
  • Interfaces directly with the Haas control
  • Accommodates parts up to 152 x 152 mm and 4.5 kg
  • Includes light curtain for safe operation

APL PART MANAGEMENT

Part management on the APL table is done by creating a grid pattern template of equally spaced rows and columns. The APL grippers can handle parts from 25 mm square, up to 152 x 152 mm (length x width). Various part shapes – such as round, hex, and square – can be loaded, and grippers can be adjusted or modified to best fit your parts.

The APL is programmed directly through the Haas control, and set up using the Haas APL interface, which guides the operator through the steps necessary to quickly program the APL. Answering simple questions, the operator enters basic information by either positioning the part grippers and pushing a single button to record the position, or by entering basic numeric values. All values are calculated automatically by the control, and the APL is ready to go.

The APL operates in the background during normal machining operations, returning parts to the storage table and retrieving new raw pieces, while parts are being machined. The result is near-continuous, unattended machining. The double grippers save time by taking a part from the electronic vice inside the machine and replacing it with a new piece of raw material, without having to return to the storage table.

APL MODE

APL Mode seamlessly combines the part program selected in Memory [MEM] with a designated APL setup template to automate part production and boost productivity.

A new M-code was developed for use with Auto Part Loaders. M299 is typically used at the end of a part program. When the program is started by pressing [CYCLE START] in Memory mode, the M299 acts exactly like an M30 (Program End and Reset). But if the program is started while “APL Mode” is active, then the M299 will command the APL to load the first part from table, and then run the active program in Memory.

Automatic Parts Loader Interface

Our easy-to-use Automatic Parts Loader interface uses simple, step-by-step instructions to help the operator “teach” the APL the correct positions for picking up, loading, and unloading parts.

  • The APL is operated directly from the machine’s pendent, allowing seamless integration
  • Step-by-step instructions and graphics help guide the operator through the setup process, for example:
    • Set part template pattern – number of Rows and Columns
    • Set first part pick-up position
    • Set clearance points for gripper rotation
    • Set load and unload spindle positions at the chuck (main spindle only)
    • Set part drop-off position for first completed part

Automatic Parts Loader Specifications

 
INCHMETRIC
Axis Travels (AU, AV, AW)115″ x 28″ x 11″2,921 x 711 x 279 mm
Rapids (AU)2126 in/min54 m/min
Rapids (AV)118 in/min3 m/min
Rapids (AW)1417 in/min36 m/min
Maximum Part (Length x Width) 6.0″ x 6.0″152 x 152 mm
Maximum Part Weight Per Gripper10 lb4.5 kg
Table Size (Length x Width) 48″ x 28″1,219 x 711 mm
Table Load Capacity1000 lb454 kg