Thanks to an MEDC Industry 4.0 Implementation grant, Clinton Township-based Additive Manufacturing LLC has developed a cost and time-saving way to repair worn parts that is also environmentally friendly.
The plan was shared by Automation Alley.
In the machining industry, the spindles of CNC machines wear out over time, creating vibrations and machining errors. The current solution, hard chrome coating, uses hexavalent chromium, which presents significant environmental concerns. The process is time-consuming, with delivery times ranging from 5-10 days, leading to costly downtime.
With the help of the Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development (MCPED), Synergy was able to acquire an Industry 4.0 implementation grant. The grant assists small manufacturing businesses with the purchase and implementation of hardware and software technologies associated with Industry 4.0. MCPED contacted Synergy directly, made them aware of the grant, encouraged them to apply and walked them through the application process.
With the grant money, Synergy Additive Manufacturing established a laser additive manufacturing-based CNC spindle remanufacturing facility. The grant was used to add a robot and laser equipment to repair worn-out spindles efficiently and environmentally friendly. The laser-based additive manufacturing process cuts the repair time from days to just 10-30 minutes. Implementation of the new technology took place over a period of 3-4 months.
The new robotic system helped Synergy increase capacity, cut down delivery time and improve the quality of its services. With the help of the grant, Synergy was able to revolutionize its CNC spindle repair process, enhance environmental sustainability, reduce downtime and increase revenues.
MCPED has awarded its allotment of implementation grant funding for 2023. But more funding is still available through the state of Michigan and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The grant provides a 50% reimbursement up to $25,000 for technology costs that qualify.
The Macomb County Department of Planning & Economic Development is engaging with businesses through the Macomb Next initiative. The Macomb Next goal is to educate businesses on the pillars of I4.0. Those pillars include cybersecurity, virtual and augmented reality, big data and analytics, advanced robotics and automation, additive manufacturing (3D printing), system integration, advanced simulation, cloud computing and The Internet of Things.
The grant money helps provide a general education about Industry 4.0 practices through five I4.0 workshops scheduled throughout 2023, technology assessments provided by the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), and funds purchase of new technology. (The assessment is required to be considered for funds for the purchase of new technology.)
To learn more about obtaining an Industry 4.0 Implementation grant, please contact the Macomb County Office of Planning and Economic Development at 586-469-5100.
