ROBEL RAIL Automation set out to automate the repair of rails and turnouts by integrating scanning, milling, welding, and grinding processes on a mobile rail repair vehicle. The greatest challenge was achieving stable and productive milling of rail steel with a flexible robot, as conventional industrial robots and their controllers proved insufficient for demanding metal-cutting applications. ROBEL therefore required a solution that would combine robotic flexibility with machine-tool-grade precision, stability, and machining performance across the entire workspace.
Mechanical partner autonox for the robot’s kinematic and Weiss for the Spindle
Overall, the difference compared to a standard robot is enormous. We were able to reduce our processing time from 40 minutes to 5 minutes while simultaneously increasing process stability.
Vincent Kadavanich, Research & Development, ROBEL RAIL Automation GmbH
Reduced processing time from 40 minutes on a standard industrial robot to 5 minutes with the MTR while increasing process stability
Less vibration and reduced tool wear
Impressive machining quality even on rail steel components
CNC functionalities like radius compensation simplify programming
A programmed circle in G-Code results in a real continuous circle movement instead of multiple point-to-point movements
Use of various CAM systems is possible
Better repeatability and up to 300% higher accuracy compared to standard industrial robots
No interface-connection to a robot controller is required
ROBEL Rail Automation develops innovative automation and digitalization solutions for railway track inspection and maintenance. By combining robotics, software, and engineering expertise, the company helps railway operators improve maintenance efficiency, safety, and infrastructure availability while reducing resource consumption.
