Case New Holland
Front Axle Support Assembly Systems - Basildon
FATA Automation Limited was awarded a contract in 2008 to design, manufacture, install and commission two mirror image front axle support assembly systems for Case New Holland, handling various configurations of axle casing and axles each weighing up to 900 kg for the tractor assembly plant in Basildon.
Axle casings are delivered on an overhead system and lowered onto the FATA Automation turnover unit and clamped in position with two hydraulic clamps. The operator bolts the axle casing to the axle. A shuttle car picks up the assembled axle and casing and returns to its home position where the assembled axle is collected for transportation to the tractor chassis for assembly.
The shuttle car is equipped with special support points and motorised jacking units to suit the large range of different axle casing variants.
Each of the systems has its own independent control panel and PLC and is fully guarded with 2 metre high close mesh fencing. Light guards and SICK floor sensors ensure fool proof operator safety whilst using the equipment.
The systems were fully commissioned and made operational during Case New Holland 2009 summer shutdown.