Automated assembly is becoming increasingly common, even for small manufacturing companies. Robotic assemblers improve productivity and boost output while ensuring that results are more consistent. Robots have long been used for assembly tasks such as welding. But, for other applications, such as tightening threaded fasteners, adoption of automation has been slower.
Now, however, electric torque screwdrivers are available that are designed to work with, or that can be adapted to work with, robotic assemblers. If properly set up, these automation tools can free workers from the repetitive task of tightening fasteners. Because robots never forget a step, automation can significantly reduce errors and increase your product’s reliability. Just be sure automation is properly set up, that you choose the right tools and support them with auxiliary systems, and that you implement quality control processes and a strict calibration schedule.