- Will it work with the machines we already run?
- Yes. Formic cells integrate with most major CNC, lathe, EDM, and injection-mold platforms (Fanuc, Mazak, Haas, DMG Mori, Okuma, and others) over M-code, Modbus, EtherNet/IP, or OPC UA, on both modern and legacy controllers. We adapt around your machines, not the other way around.
- Can one robot tend more than one machine?
- Yes. With track-extended reach, a single robot can tend two or three spindles in one cell. This is one of the fastest ways to recover the 20-40% of spindle time most shops lose to operator-bound load/unload.
- What happens when we switch to a new part or job?
- Changeovers are handled through the cell's program library. Your team selects the new job profile, and the robot loads the corresponding parameters (grip, orientation, gauging spec) without reprogramming from scratch. For new parts, Formic engineers add the profile remotely or on-site, depending on complexity.
- How does it handle out-of-spec parts?
- Vision-guided pick manages part orientation, and inline gauging verifies quality inside the cell. Out-of-spec parts are diverted at the gauge before they ever leave the cell.
- Do we need to add a shift or headcount to run it?
- No. Machine tending runs a lights-out third shift on equipment you already own, with no added headcount and no shift coverage required. It's one flat monthly rate with 24/7 support and 100% maintenance included, and no CapEx.
- Is it safe to work near the robot during operation?
- Yes. Formic cells are designed for shared-space operation. Collaborative configurations include area scanners and safety-rated speed and force limits so operators can access the machine area without a full cell shutdown.
Formic · CNC tending