Norbert Maroldt
Managing Director
VOGEL
moulds and machines AG
Formen- und Maschinenbau
Im Ebermätteli 8a
4464 Maisprach
Switzerland
fon: +41 61 845 99 99
fax: +41 61 845 99 90
email:
maroldt(at)vogel-ag.net
For the APG casting of instrument transformers in particular, Vogel can supply SF6 handling systems that are connected directly to the APG mould. After evacuation of the mould, the active part inside, including the interior vacuum chamber, is flooded with SF6, prior to the injection of the resin. The SF6 improves partial discharge levels. For certain types of instrument transformers drastic improvement of properties is thus achieved. SF6 handling systems are designed to operate fully automatically, without any operator intervention. After the process, the SF6 can be re-claimed back into the supply unit, so that a minimum of exposure of SF6 to the atmosphere is achieved.
Vogel/Hedrich were the first companies that introduced Robotic Systems for automatic demolding, cleaning, and charging with inserts. The Robot can automatically handle three clamping machines from a centralized position and completely eliminates manual handling in the process. Various tools that are adapted to the Robotic Systems are available in certain locations to allow a fast and easy processing, controlled by a centralized PC-system that stores all production data of the process. The robot can also be designed in a hanging carriage, that moves between clamping machines and thus can even supply more than three systems with one robot.
Vogel is well-equipped with two clamping-machines, three Epoxy/PUR dosing-systems and two silicon dosing-systems in a pilot plant station, especially established for customer service. Here we can perform casting trials for our customers, or develop a process or a final product. In addition, lab-tools are available, like TG-measurement, viscosimeters, etc. to determine the final properties of the cured resin. For the casting of coils, cutting-devices, as well as microscopes are available, too, to determine the impregnation-degree of the winding.
Vogel uses the hardware and software capabilities of the whole Hedrich Group to programme clamping machines and dosing units. “Hedrich Software and Automation” is a rapidly growing sub-division of Hedrich’s that employs more than 20 software engineers for designing the software according to customers’ requirements. All controllers available from Siemens, Allen Bradley etc. can be used according to customers needs. Simple PLC-controls, up to the most modern soft PLC-emulation on a PC-basis including TFT-monitor and Windows-based graphic controls can be programmed. With these tools, we achieve a safe operation of the clamping machines and dosing units, while we provide an environment for storing all process-relevant data according to DIN/ ISO requirements at the same time.
Besides the main equipment like clamping machine and mixing / dosing systems, we can provide additional handling systems that enhance or support the process. These devices include supply-carts for bringing or taking moulds to the oven, semi-automatic de-moulding systems, that help to de-mould heavy parts as well as lifting devices and cranes. Cranes can be designed to support the mould-assembly on the clamping machine or to help during transport of the insert from a pre-assembly station. All devices can be integrated into the controls to also recognize correct positions as well as proper functioning of the units. The automation degree can be designed to have an operator-free environment if desired.