As part of a R64-million, European Union-sponsored genetic sample processing system (GSPS) being built for the South African Police Service's (SAPS's) Pretoria forensic laboratory, Tectra Automation will be supplying linear-automation equipment in the form of four 10 m long Rexroth linear modules type CKR25-200, each of which will have a Rexroth AR8 articulated robot attached.
"The project is a first for us," says Tectra's divisional manager, Kevin Lombard. "We usually supply the Rexroth range of standard linear bearings and ball screws to a system integrator, which assembles and installs the equipment. However, for the SAPS project, the linear modules were designed for integration with the standard AR8 robot."
The linear module is a good example of a growing trend in automation towards the use of ready-made components with the linear guidance and drive already incorporated, Lombard explains. "In this case, instead of the customers designing and manufacturing a system from standard linear bearings, belt drives and aluminium profiles, we were able to save them time and money, as the CKR25-200 is a standard product with integrated linear guides and belt drive."
Although customers still use Rexroth linear bearings and ball screws to make special-purpose machines, more companies are beginning to use combined linear guides with drives, as Tectra Automation can offer a complete system with the motor, drive, control and pneumatics.
The main contractor for the SAPS project is German-based Tecan, which will supply the laboratory and testing equipment for the GSPS. This presented a logistical challenge, as the local system integrator, Pretoria based Vertex Automation, had to design and manufacture the equipment to integrate with the testing equipment supplied by Tecan. The commissioning is taking place in Germany, with Vertex having to travel to Germany to assemble the linear equipment. The stringent time schedule of the project is a further challenge, as the EU requires that it be completed by the end of 2005. "Fortunately, because of the 'plug-and-play' concept by which the linear modules are designed, the equipment has an exceptionally short start-up time," Lombard points out. "Lately, we have been finding that customers are more inclined to use products that have high initial expenditure but minimal start-up time and ease of use, resulting in lower overall ownership costs."
Tectra Automation has supplied equipment for the SAPS project valued at some R4 to R5 million including linear bearings, robots, PLCs, servo drives and pneumatics. So far, three of the linear modules have been commissioned, and the fourth is in the process of off-line programming.
For more information contact Kevin Lombard, divisional manager, Linear and Assembly Technologies, Tectra Automation, +27 (0) 11 971 9400, [email protected], www.tectra.co.za
Innomotics showcases efficient motors and drives at Hannover Messe
News & events
Innomotics recently presented its innovations and solutions for a sustainable industry at Hannover Messe 2025. Highlights included a novel Active Vibration Control System, IE6 energy efficiency class motors, and new product partnerships.
Read more...A racing partnership SKF South Africa
News & events
In one of motorsport’s most demanding arenas, a partnership forged in engineering precision and high-performance ambition has proven its worth. SKF, a global leader in bearing technology and innovation, celebrated a remarkable milestone in partnership with SVR Toyota GAZOO Racing, taking second position overall at the 2025 Dakar Rally.
Read more...German Chancellor visits Beckhoff at Hannover Messe Beckhoff Automation
News & events
As part of the traditional Hannover Messe opening tour, Federal Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz visited German company, Beckhoff Automation. Hans Beckhoff, managing director and owner of Beckhoff Automation, presented his company and its comprehensive expertise in the field of software and AI.
Read more...Festo 100th Anniversary: Celebrating a century-long legacy of innovation and commitment Festo
News & events
Festo has officially begun celebrating 100 years of groundbreaking technology, commitment and enduring partnerships. To kick off this historic milestone celebration, their Customer Innovation Day and ThankYou Party series brought together customers, partners and employees to reflect on their journey and look ahead to an exciting future.
Read more...Siemens and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrate 20 years of innovation Siemens South Africa
News & events
Siemens Digital Industries Software is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its collaboration with Oracle Red Bull Racing, representing one of the longest standing technical partnerships in Formula 1 today.
Read more...A new generation of solar professionals
News & events
A new generation of solar professionals is rising in Cape Town. The second cohort of the Solar Youth Project has just completed an intensive eight-week training course and is ready to take on the next stage, 10 months of work experience.
Read more...From the editor's desk: The new space race Technews Publishing
News & events
The other day an interesting report captured my attention. Within four days, two different private American companies recently succeeded in landing their spacecraft on the moon. Intuitive Machines landed ...
Read more...Upskilled workers add value to maintenance teams
News & events
Maintenance costs, which are traditionally grudge expenses for businesses or industrial operations, can be kept to a minimum by ensuring that maintenance crews are properly trained in key aspects of the condition monitoring process. Wearcheck offers a choice of more than 15 courses covering a wide range of topics, from general oil analysis to thermography, transformer maintenance and many other reliability solutions services.
Read more...BMG powers up at Nampo 2025 Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
News & events
The BMG team was highly prominent at this year’s Nampo agricultural show, held near Bothaville recently. This prestigious event, which is one of the largest agricultural exhibitions in the southern hemisphere, is a highlight for manufacturers and suppliers of farming equipment, as well as for farmers, families and the entire community.
printer friendly version