SplitFin

The SplitFin is a vertical processing line for edge and inner processing of flat glass lites sheets, and is currently the fastest vertical processing line on the market.

How is the SplitFin configured?

To significantly reduce the cycle time for processing, the SplitFin is divided into two processing towers. The first tower - the EPS-B - performs the sheet grinding and polishing, i.e. the complete edge processing. The second tower - the MRX-B - implements all internal processing and is optionally equipped with a water jet unit. After processing is complete, the VHW reliably cleans the sheets. The line is flexibly configurable and can also be designed with only one processing tower. Subsequent integration of the second machine is possible at any time.

How does the SplitFin work?

Loading can take place either manually or by means of automation (sorting / robot / etc.). Inputting the processing data is also flexible (simple graphic input at the machine / DXF import / data interfaces), whilst the processing that follows is fully automatic. The entire weight of the sheet is borne in the EPS-B by a stable suction axis and it is polished with the utmost precision using either one or two processing heads. 
Once edge processing is complete, the sheet is automatically transported to the MRX-B. Here, internal processing is also carried out fully automatically. This takes place either using diamond tools or by means of a modern water jet unit. A combination of both is also possible. 
Following automatic transport to the washing machine and successful cleaning of the sheet, it is removed from the line or automatically transferred to downstream processes. In line operation, both processing machines outwardly appear to operate as a single unit. Data is automatically transferred between the machines, which can also be operated individually or in combination mode. It is therefore additionally possible to load sheets from other edge processing machines (e.g. double-sided sanding machines) directly at the MRX-B inlet.

For whom is the SplitFin suitable?

The SplitFin is modular by design. This applies to both the machine sizes and the available options. Due to this broad scope of possibilities, the SplitFin is designed for all glass processors who specialise in high-quality processing in interior areas, as well as for roofing, railings, etc. The rapid cycle times equate to correspondingly high sales levels, and the focus is therefore on industrial applications. 

What advantages does the machine offer?

The biggest advantage of the machine is the high productivity and the associated rapid ROI. The SplitFin is currently the fastest vertical processing line on the market, and even the standard version is able to achieve incredibly short cycle times thanks to the cycle time-optimised systems and the split processing. By integrating the second grinding spindle on the EPS, cycle times of < 200 seconds for a finished door (polished edge, 2 Mickey Mouse cut-outs and handle hole) can be achieved in real production. An output of 80 to 120 sheets per shift is realistic in average production.

The SplitFin impresses with high flexibility, both in application and processing. Operation in stand-alone machine mode is possible in equal measure to the subsequent extension of the line with the second tower or the retrofitting of certain options (automatic tool changer, water jet) to increase the output. The SplitFin can be operated entirely flexibly from a batch size of 1. With this system it is irrelevant whether a small sheet is followed by a large one, or if a rectangle is followed by a shape. Each sheet is finished fully automatically with the highest quality and speed.

The SplitFin is also setting a new standard when it comes to operability and ease of maintenance. The automated system reviews the actual situation on the machine constantly and detects deviating process parameters fully autonomously (incorrect sheet dimensions, deviating forces during processing, deviating vacuum values, etc.). The deviations are resolved independently by the machine if possible, for example through an autonomous reduction of the feed rates. Thanks to the intelligent design, all maintenance positions are readily accessible and important components are kept completely separate to the wet area. Machine maintenance and cleaning are simple and straightforward.

Further advantages: 

• Fastest cycle time with complete flexibility and stability
• Glass surface is not touched throughout edge processing
• Final polishing possible without a tool change (three tools on one tool holder)
• Two equivalent processing spindles are installed at the front and rear of the MRX-B
• Rapid tool changer on the MRX-B internal processing unit, tools always carried along with the spindle
• Autopilot for processing (speed adjustment, validation systems, etc.)
• Production of sheets from other edge processing machines possible on the MRX-B, even during line operation
• Possible to produce polished round corners and bevelled corners without lost cycle time
• Cycle time pre-calculation for operators facilitates simplified planning

What functions are included as standard?

EPS-B edge processing machine:

• Stable, continuous X-axis with optimised suction system
• High-performance grinding spindle for rapid, precise processing
• Shapes are possible as standard
• Smallest possible wet area for optimum protection of all relevant components
• Simple and graphical input of processing and straightforward DXF import
• Glass thicknesses of 3 to 20mm are possible as standard
• Automatic tool management (sharpening, measuring, reprofiling)

Internal processing with MRX-B:

• Production of drilled holes, countersinks and ground cut-outs 
• Two identical processing spindles on the front and rear side
• Drilling and countersinking possible on both sides
• 10 tool change stations at the front and rear side respectively
• Fastest possible tool change at any position in the machine
• Highly flexible, rapid vacuum belt system
• Optimum operator support (vacuum control, tool management, inspection mode, etc.)

SplitFin line network:

• Parallel processing on both machines
• Automatic data handling between the machines (automatic handover of processing parameters)
• Full control of the line from the EPS-B control terminal
• Operation possible as a line or in stand-alone machine mode
• Loading of sheets also possible at the inlet of the MRX-B (from other edge processing machines for example)
• Fully automatic transport and accumulation operation from the inlet of the grinding machine to the outfeed of the washing machine
   

What functions can be optionally added?

EPS-B edge processing:

• Automatic tool change system for flexible changing of the glass thickness or glass type
• Second grinding head to further increase the system output
• Split drive at the inlet for loading during processing
• Processing of laminated glass sheets (up to 24mm glass thickness)
• Processing of thin glass lites sheets (2mm glass thickness)

Internal processing with MRX-B:

• Equipped with state-of-the-art water jet cutter for complete flexibility and major cycle time gains

SplitFin:

• CAD-DXF interface to ERP system
• CAD/CAM drawing and import program
• Wide range of automation solutions for loading and unloading