ZwickRoell Develops the First Fully Automated Testing Machine for Sheet Metal Tests

Equipped with a 6-axis industrial robot, specimen identification via 2D code and the high-precision videoXtens camera measuring system, the machine, which is used for hole expansion tests, improves efficiency and precision in sheet metal forming and customers' quality testing processes. “The introduction of automated sheet metal testing is a significant step forward in materials testing technology. Automation not only allows our customers to speed up their production processes considerably, but also to increase the precision and reliable reproducibility of the tests, as they are no longer subject to operator influence. This significantly reduces rejected specimens and material waste. In the end, it allows our customers to achieve cost-efficient production while maintaining the quality of their products—a crucial factor in today's highly competitive markets,” explains Timo Nittka, Automation Project Manager at ZwickRoell.

The automated sheet metal testing machine ensures the reliable selection of punching tools by identifying specimens with a 2D code. This technology ensures that each specimen is precisely detected and assigned and also guarantees safe and reliable test results.
An additional advantage: significant reduction in employee workload. The operator simply has to load the magazine with specimens and the system automatically handles all subsequent steps. Automation therefore significantly reduces the manual workload and minimizes the risk of operator errors. The integrated camera system, which determines the test results independently of the operator, also contributes to this. Subjective decisions by the operator, such as the detection of cracks, are completely eliminated. This leads to greater objectivity and reproducibility of test results.

An especially notable feature is the ability to run tests during ghost shifts. The magazine can be filled with up to 100 specimens, allowing the machine to work uninterrupted and operator-independent throughout the night. This enhances machine utilization while simultaneously boosting efficiency in the testing processes. For special requirements, manual operation of the punch and the sheet metal testing machine is also possible, which ensures a high level of flexibility when testing non-standard specimens. Another highlight is the consistent operating concept: customers who already use ZwickRoell automated tensile testing systems benefit from standardized software. Operation, data import and data export are identical for the new sheet metal testing machine, which considerably simplifies training and use of the machines.