Reliable, efficient, one of a kind
Sep 20, 2023
Somac® ProLine Cube: the new generation of filling systems
Smarter vehicle filling as a way to boost overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)? Somac® ProLine Cube makes it possible. Whether its brake fluid, windshield washer, coolant, or refrigerant, the latest Somac® generation fills up to 15 percent faster and is easier to service. Its short cycle and operating times are suitable for all final assembly lines and automotive industries.
The Cube modules, from which the new line filling system takes its name, are a technological tour de force. For the Cube modules used in the base unit and consoles, the Dürr development team focused on hydraulic and pneumatic as well as measurement and control functions. The system design allows for easy reconfiguration, resulting in a positive outcome where a single base unit can supply up to four filling units. This makes it possible to design layouts with significant distances between the control cabinet, base units, and consoles, which is particularly advantageous when integrating the system into existing plants where space is at a premium.
The new system generation is already demonstrating its real-life efficiency at several car manufacturer locations in Europe, Asia, and North America. What is most impressive about Somac® ProLine Cube is its outstanding process quality and contribution to higher overall equipment effectiveness.
Holger Füssel, CEO of Somac®
ProLine Cube cuts the process time by up to 15 percent, significantly increasing overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) by optimizing the flow of individual media as well as media combinations. Other features include vacuum performance specifically tailored to the filling adapter connection point, as well as rapid recirculation and pressure equalization steps. The synchronous line filling systems with control panels at eye level are ideal for high-speed assembly lines with high production rates.
Ergonomic and easy to use
For the system design, the engineers emphasized making handling as easy and ergonomic as possible for the workers. This is demonstrated through the automatic preselection of the correct filling parameters as soon as the vehicle is detected via the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Another example of its helpful support features is the environmental sensor that automatically adjusts the filling processes if the ambient air temperature or humidity changes. The G4 Blue adapters set new standards for ergonomics. On average, they are 20 percent lighter than conventional adapters, have a pneumatic clamping action, are perfectly balanced, and do not drip when they are returned to their racks after filling.
Maintenance-friendly design minimizes downtimes
The Somac® ProLine Cube’s filling functions are integrated in a block design; in addition, the number of pipes and fittings is minimal compared to the previous version, making the system compact and easy to maintain. A chip built into the adapter head determines the maintenance frequency by counting the filling cycles. LEDs provide real-time information about the switching position of individual valves, which are exchanged quickly via two screws and a mesh seal. The system independently detects filter contamination and automatically switches to a second filter if required. The vacuum pumps are installed on pull-out trays for ease of access. Remote monitoring of all connected components takes place via the system network. The electronics module developed specifically for ProLine Cube is identically constructed for all fluids, greatly reducing the need for spare parts. To make maintenance even easier, additional features such as automatic line emptying before changing the filling adapter are available.
DXQready
Somac® ProLine Cube is DXQready! What does this mean? DXQ product family software can augment each filling system at any time. The intelligent IIoT applications optimize assembly efficiency and product quality for use anytime, anywhere, on any device. ProLine Cube thus fits perfectly into Dürr’s optimized comprehensive filling technology portfolio for all automation levels and process configurations – and is perfect for every vehicle assembly line.
related articles
Holger
Füssel
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Dürr Somac GmbH
Zwickauer Str. 30
09366 Stollberg
Germany
Zwickauer Str. 30
09366 Stollberg
Germany