Automation in investment casting is often seen as the domain of large-scale foundries, with a common perception that it requires major capital investment, significant floor space, and rigid shop-floor layouts. But what if there were a way to bring the benefits of robotic automation to foundries of any size?
That’s the idea behind the Dip Mate, a modular robotic dipping system designed to make automation more accessible for foundries of all sizes. It was developed through a collaboration between Eagle Precision Cast Parts and equipment suppliers AW Bell and Buntrock Industries.
The new system is the focus of the article “Collaborative Innovation Brings Modular Automation to Investment Casting,” featured as a Casting Innovations spotlight in the April issue of Modern Casting magazine, published by the American Foundry Society.
The following is an excerpt from the article. Visit the Modern Casting website for the full version.
“While adding robotic capacity is a logical step when the conditions are right, the challenges of high capital investment, complexity, and floor space often make automation a difficult endeavor. Modular designs like the Dip Mate highlight the advantages of flexible systems that work alongside existing foundry equipment rather than replacing it. This approach allows facilities to introduce automation gradually, optimizing their operations step by step over time.
A key aspect of the design of modular systems is their scalability. Rather than requiring a complete overhaul, by their very nature, modular systems provide a framework that can be built on and expanded as needed, integrating into an established production process without significant disruption.
‘That’s the key,’ explained Stephen Murtagh, General Manager at AW Bell Machinery, referring to the flexibility of modular systems. ‘You can start with one section—like the most difficult part or the most labor-intensive part—and implement automation there. Once you see the benefits and you're well in tune with it, you can grow it to encompass the entire process. Ultimately, it can become a complete solution.’”
To read the full story about the benefits Eagle Precision has seen since adopting the Dip Mate—and learn why there is a growing interest in scalable automation from foundries of all sizes— check out the article in the April issue of Modern Casting, page 45.