STS Robotech, based in Busan, Korea, manufactures clean fittings for semiconductor equipment. With one of the largest collaborative robot production lines in the country, the company has firmly established itself in the semiconductor parts market. Around 50 employees work at its Sasang-gu facility, focusing on SUS components processed through CNC machine tending. To modernize and automate its workflow, STS Robotech adopted the RB series collaborative robots for CNC automation.
350+ Collaborative Robots for Automatic Loading and Unloading in CNC Machines
One of the key challenges in the component manufacturing industry is the heavy reliance on human labor in many process stages, such as loading raw materials into CNC machines and removing finished products. To address this, STS Robotech decided to utilize Rainbow Robotics' RB series collaborative robots for loading and unloading processes. The introduction of collaborative robots at STS Robotech not only reduced repetitive manual labor for workers but also optimized processes, improving efficiency and productivity. These robots, with a repeatability precision of ±0.05 mm, enable precise loading and unloading of high-precision parts, which were previously handled manually.
Automation with Existing Equipment Layout
The most decisive factor in selecting collaborative robots was their ability to integrate automation without altering the existing production setup. Unlike industrial robots, collaborative robots operate safely alongside human workers without the need for safety fences, making them highly adaptable to multi-product production lines. There was no need for excessive modifications to the existing facility layout.
"The RB3-1200 model from the RB series, applied in this process, is at least twice as lightweight as standard industrial robots. This allows partial integration with certain CNC machines without bolting the base to a frame or the floor. As a result, the robot can be easily detached and reinstalled, reducing fixed costs and preventing misalignment due to machine vibrations during prolonged operation."
Jungwoo Heo is the Director of Technology at Rainbow Robotis' R&D Center, overseeing the development of collaborative robots.STS Robotech employees were involved from the early stages of implementation, helping eliminate bias or resistance toward robots. The RB series offers an icon-based GUI for intuitive programming, enabling quick setup and edits with just a few clicks. Its user-friendly teaching software shortens task time, and the Plug & Play function allows gripper changes without additional setup. This makes it easy to adapt to small-batch, multi-product lines, while also allowing machine tool changes and maintenance without removing the robot.
Enhanced User Convenience with Superior Robot Performance
Using collaborative robots brings many benefits to STS Robotech. The RB series offers the industry's first built-in pneumatic option, enabling direct connection of air and signal lines without external cables—reducing damage and allowing quick deployment. These features ensure smooth operation and minimize risks in the production environment, improving safety.
The RB series also played a key role in CNC automation thanks to its top-tier IP66 dust- and waterproof rating—one of the highest in its class. Its full aluminum body, including modular covers, allows stable operation even when exposed to cutting fluids and coolants, without the need for additional protective covers.
Collaborative robot automation enhances productivity and optimizes operations
Four years after adopting collaborative robots, STS Robotech has achieved a 50% increase in productivity. Starting with just two RB series robots for testing, the company saw clear results and gradually expanded its deployment, now operating over 350 units. This makes STS Robotech a leading success case in collaborative robot-based automation.
The decision to adopt collaborative robots was driven by a desire to reduce workers' physical labor, optimize processes, and make a long-term investment in the company's future. Previously, each worker manually operated 3-4 CNC machines, but now, they can manage up to 10 machines. Additionally, manual workers have been reassigned to higher-level tasks such as quality inspections, increasing efficiency. Before automation, CNC machine utilization was below 60% with a 24-hour, two-shift operation. After introducing collaborative robots, utilization rates have surged to over 90%. This improvement allows STS Robotech to accurately predict production volumes and swiftly respond to customer demand, which has increased 2-3 times due to the semiconductor industry boom.
By embracing collaborative robots, STS Robotech is positioning itself as an industry pioneer. This automation initiative is a strategic decision for long-term growth and future preparedness. The company's investment in CNC machine tending automation demonstrates its commitment to maintaining both current and long-term competitiveness.
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