Transfer Systems
Press Automation Systems
Press Automation and Custom Systems That Move Production Forward
Transfer Systems
Transfer Systems
Transfer Systems
Transfer Systems
Transfer Systems
Transfer Systems
Transfer Systems
Destackers & Stackers
Destackers
Destackers
Destackers
Stackers & Gantry Systems
Press Robots & Part Automation
Part Automation
Part Automation
Press Robots
AP&T North America
Cost-efficient production solutions for sheet metal forming, from individual machines to complete lines — press transfer systems, press robots, destackers, stackers and gantry systems.
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AP&T supplies sheet metal forming companies all over the world with cost efficient production solutions based on industry-leading technology. A modular product program creates optimised solutions, from individual machines to complete production lines, with a project manager overseeing each engagement.
Services include preventative maintenance, training, performance analyses, modernisation and upgrades.
Kimastle
An automation vendor partner for custom automation, material handling, part movement and integrated production systems, and for tooling-related equipment.
Problem
Automation helps manufacturers reduce manual handling, increase throughput, improve consistency, reduce ergonomic risk, and create safer, more repeatable production flow. Whether the need is press-to-press transfer, blank stacking, de-stacking, part transfer, conveyor movement, robotic handling, or a fully custom cell, VMS helps customers evaluate the entire process so the automation supports the part, press, operator, downstream equipment, and facility layout.
This solution is relevant for customers that need more output without simply adding labor, customers struggling with repetitive operator handling, customers moving larger or heavier blanks and parts, and customers wanting to connect multiple pieces of equipment into one coordinated production system.
What VMS delivers
- Built around the process
- Press and custom automation developed around the part, process, takt time, safety requirements, available space and production goals.
- Automation planning
- Press transfer, robotic loading and unloading, stackers, de-stackers, conveyors, shuttles, pick-and-place, blank, part and scrap handling, and downstream material movement.
- Single-source coordination
- Equipment builders, controls, guarding, tooling, grippers, vacuum cups, conveyors, foundations, rigging, electrical, startup, training and long-term support.
- New lines and upgrades
- New production lines, existing equipment upgrades, pressroom modernization, ergonomic improvements, labor reduction, throughput improvement and turnkey plant automation.
- Connected equipment
- Automation that works with presses, feed lines, cut-to-length lines, roll forming systems, wash systems, inspection stations, packaging areas and plant material handling.
Proof
VMS developed a complete blanking line solution for Olympic Steel that included a COE blanking feed line, a Stamtec 800-ton blanking press, and an AP&T stacking system. The project demonstrated VMS’s ability to integrate automation into a larger production system built around speed, blank size, quality, and long-term value.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
When should a manufacturer consider automation?
Automation should be considered when manual handling limits throughput, creates ergonomic or safety concerns, causes inconsistent production flow, increases labor dependency, or prevents the customer from connecting equipment into a repeatable process.
Can VMS automate existing presses or only new press lines?
VMS can evaluate both new and existing equipment. Existing presses, press lines, feed lines, and downstream processes may be candidates for transfer automation, robotic handling, controls upgrades, safety improvements, stackers, de-stackers, conveyors, or custom integration depending on the equipment condition and application requirements.
What information is needed to recommend an automation system?
Helpful information includes part drawings, weight, size, material, surface sensitivity, orientation requirements, press or machine details, cycle rate, takt time, current handling method, safety concerns, available floor space, upstream and downstream equipment, electrical and controls requirements, and the customer’s production goals.
Can automation help with stacking, de-stacking, and part presentation?
Yes. Stackers, de-stackers, conveyors, shuttles, lifts, grippers, vacuum tooling, magnetic handling, and part presentation systems can help reduce manual movement, improve consistency, protect material surfaces, and create a more predictable flow into or out of production equipment.