THE DEFINITIVE TRUCKING SITE

September 2008

Axle robot     
        rocks BPW

INCREASED demand in recent years for quality truck trailer axles with both air and mechanical suspension systems has seen BPW SA grow into a worldclass manufacturing concern employing production techniques and equipment of the highest order. 

To assist the organisation in meeting its customers’ expectations, a new welding robot has been imported from Europe and positioned alongside production technicians in BPW’s Gauteng factory. 

“The robot enables us to make more axles in less time,” explains BPW SA’s production manager, Willie Britz. “While it takes a human 26 to 30 minutes to weld an axle unit, the robot does the job in just over 12 minutes. While our production capacity is improved, so too is the quality, consistency and reliability of the welding work. 

“The machine also helps save on filler material like welding wire and gas. The efficiency of the robot will ensure it pays for itself in a mere 18 months. Apart from its cost benefits, it adds a new element of technological sophistication to our operation.”