Helping Handle Round Steel Pieces with Robots and Magnets
In many factories, moving round steel billets by hand can be slow and sometimes risky. We recently worked with a client to set up a system where a robot arm picks up these round steel pieces using a magnetic gripper, with a camera helping guide it into place.
What the Workpieces Are Like
The steel billets are round, made of mild steel, and come in different sizes. They range from 80mm to 145mm in diameter and are 300mm to 630mm long. Each one weighs between about 22kg and 75kg. They are moved one at a time at normal workshop temperature.
How the System Works
We used our HEPMT-2815A magnetic units, but with one important change: we shaped the contact surface into a curve. This curved shape fits nicely against the round surface of the steel billet, helping it grip better and more safely.
Putting It All Together
The magnetic gripper is attached to a robot arm. A vision system tells the robot exactly where the billet is. The robot then moves into the right position, picks up the billet securely, and moves it to the next spot. The whole process is automatic, and the magnet holds tight without needing constant power.
Why It Helps
This setup moves billets much faster than manual handling and keeps the workflow steady. Because the magnet holds the workpiece without clamping or touching it too hard, the steel surface stays in good condition. It also makes the workplace safer and less tiring for everyone.
It’s a good example of how magnets and robots can work together to handle even round-shaped materials efficiently in a real factory.
