Robotic Cycle Times: Actual vs Capaticy

[Ke1thC]

I don’t think that I'm getting my moneys worth.

I have a two-sided Panasonic robotic welding cell. One side is welding while the other is being unloaded, inspected, and loaded. The operator can easily do all of his tasks while the robot is welding.

I've figured my cycle times. I've figured deductions, such as; changing tungsten, removing and replacing components, bathroom breaks, and the like. My robot is capable of welding 3200 parts per day but I'm only getting 2,400-2,600.

Is that a reasonable difference? Are my operators taking advantage of me?

Keith

 

[DVWE]

Have you even gone out to watch your operators or do a time study on them? Why are you asking us that question?

 

[Ke1thC]

Yes I have. I think my operators are actively disengaged. I'm having trouble convincing my boss of this.

I'm asking the question to learn if there's a "standard" or "best practice" in terms of the difference between the actual output and the actual capacity.

If I knew that it was 10% or 20% I could know if I should buy another robot or hire a new operator.

Thanks,

Keith

 

[DVWE]

So based on your time study, where are the disconnects? What isn't adding up?

If your robot is running constantly, then it's at max capacity. I have a feeling this is not the case for you?

I don't know of any standard, but AWS does produce a standard for robotic welding, maybe it's mentioned in there. Check their website.

 

[Ke1thC]

I know it's my operators. I'm looking for third party conformation (like this forum) to make my case. I thought there might be a "best practices" or "benchmark" (like 10% to 20%) that was less than the max.

Thanks for your feedback.

Keith

 

[DVWE]

Although double posting is typically frowned upon, you also might want to post this in the Automation and Robotic engineering forum. You might be able to get some additional feedback there too. You can tell them I sent you.

 

[Ke1thC]

Thanks. I'm pretty new to the Eng-Tips.