A FlexLink line was installed in the Göteborg plant, Sweden, for the machining of the synchronized sleeves to all gearboxes. “When starting a new project, we don’t always know exactly where the lines will be installed in the plant”, says Stefan Bofeldt, project engineer and responsible for the layout of the new SAAB line.

“The ability to make a high quality product at medium production levels at a competitive cost level together with the possibility to make short set-up time. To replace an old line took between 2-3 weeks before, which is now cut down to 1-1 1/2 weeks, due to the ever-increasing production volumes. This is why we need a flexible ability to install a new system in a couple of days instead of weeks.”
 

FlexLink, a flexible supplier
“FlexLink is a supplier that is flexible enough to continuously adapt the layout to our changing needs during a project. FlexLink starts the installation at the same time as the machines are being put down in the factory. The fact that everything is built on the spot and tailor made means that the real positioning of the different machining cells is a great advantage.”  

One operator running the whole line 
The production will be running in two or three shifts, comprising eight different machining operations: turning, broaching, cold forming, turning, pointing, hobbing, deburring and shaving. The line is equipped with a FlexLink steel chain size XM with cleated elevators provided with drip trays to eliminate any leakage together with integrated cable conduits.   

“One advantage with the FlexLink line is that no transfer is needed to separate vertical elevators and have the ability to buffer up to 20 minutes of production between the major machining cells”.  “This type of layout will be used for all high volume cells in the future, since our production targets are continuously increasing.  

Key success factors
“The ability to make a high quality product at medium production levels, at a competitive cost level and make changes with a short set-up time. To replace an old line took between 2-3 weeks before, which is now cut down to 1-1 1/2 weeks, due to the ever-increasing production volumes. This is why we need a new system that we can install in a couple of days instead of weeks.”