Transfer machines represent a revolution in the field of industrial production, combining different operations into a single highly efficient system. In this article, we will explore what transfer machines are, the features that make Buffoli transfer machines unique, and the various models designed to meet every production need.
What are transfer machines?
The term "transfer machines" commonly refers to automatic workpiece transfer machines. These sophisticated devices represent an innovative solution in the field of industrial production, combining different functions into a single machine that would otherwise be performed by separate machines.
By unifying the loading and transferring of parts into a single production line, transfer machines ensure a continuous, highly efficient workflow with consistent quality standards.
The distinctive feature of transfer machines is the presence of a system that transfers parts between various workstations where operating units work on the parts simultaneously without interruptions. This advanced automation ensures high standards of precision and repeatability. The combination of these qualities makes transfer machines an ideal choice for mass production requiring high quality and constant reliability.
The features of Buffoli transfer machines
Buffoli Transfer, a European leader since 1958 in the development of turnkey solutions in the transfer machine sector, offers a range of rotary or linear transfer machines that stand out for innovation and quality. Buffoli transfer machines are designed to optimize the production process, integrating advanced technology and a modular design that allows flexibility and adaptability to specific customer needs. Buffoli circular transfer machines (rotary transfer machines) are characterized by the following main features:
- High Precision and Repeatability: Buffoli machines guarantee extraordinary precision thanks to unique and patented solutions. This is particularly important in sectors where even the slightest variation can compromise the quality of the final product.
- Production Efficiency: Integrated loading/unloading systems and specific features of Buffoli machines allow achieving particularly high production efficiencies, even close to 100%.
- Advanced Automation: By integrating state-of-the-art loading/unloading, repositioning, palletizing, and control systems, Buffoli transfer machines offer a level of automation that minimizes human intervention, reducing the risk of errors and lowering the cost per piece.
- Modularity and Flexibility: The modular design of Buffoli machines allows adapting and configuring the systems based on specific production needs. Buffoli machines are designed to ensure extremely short retooling times (normally less than an hour). This flexibility allows just-in-time production and quick responses to market changes and new customer demands.
- Reliability and Durability: Built with high-quality materials and designed to withstand demanding operating conditions, Buffoli transfer machines offer long operational life and high reliability, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.
The models of Buffoli transfer machines
Buffoli, a reference name in the transfer machine sector, offers a range of highly specialized solutions to meet the most diverse production needs. Here is an overview of the main models:
- Rotary Table Transfer Machines (RTM): Since 1958, Buffoli has been a leader in producing these machines, ideal for precision machining of multi-sided parts and precision turning operations. These machines handle parts within a 500 mm cube or bar up to 120 mm, ensuring high performance for medium and high volumes.
- Multi-Centers (FMC): Integrating multiple 4 or 5-axis work centers into a single system, they are ideal for medium volumes of stamped or cast parts but can also be bar-fed. The rotary tables are equipped with satellites and tool changers with up to 24 tools or more.
- Multi-Spindle Turning Machines: Buffoli is known worldwide for its transfer machines designed for precision bar turning (or wire starting from 2 mm), some of which involve rotating parts (TRANS-BAR-TURN and TWIN-TURN machines). However, Buffoli also produces patented multi-spindle lathes, such as the QUADRI-TURN with 4 horizontal spindles, and the LUHANCE TL with 4 or more opposing vertical spindles. They work with materials like aluminum, steel, bronze, copper, and brass, offering high precision for medium volumes.
- Multi-Station Milling and Turning Machines: The OMNI-TURN machines combine multiple lathes and a rotary table for static operations and are ideal for working on complex, high-precision parts. These machines, perfect for the automotive sector, offer quick changeovers and great flexibility for different families of parts.
- Transfer Machines for Long Parts: Buffoli also offers specific solutions for machining precision parts up to 2 meters in length in medium-high volumes. The LINEAR-FLEX is a linear transfer machine for short and long parts (up to 2 m), while the MILL-N-TURN is ideal for shafts up to 900 mm, ensuring flexibility and precision at each workstation.
Buffoli continues to innovate and improve its transfer machines to provide customers with cutting-edge production solutions that combine efficiency, precision, and reliability. Buffoli transfer machines represent a strategic choice for companies aiming to optimize their production processes and maintain a competitive edge in the global market.
