Largest Weinig production machine of all times installed

The centerpiece is a gigantic machine on which in particular machine stands will be produced. The ambitious project was preceded by extensive preliminary work. First the production had to be restructured to create sufficient space for the machine whose size and weight surpassed all the standards to date in the Weinig production works. More or less unnoticed by the outside world, massive excavation work was carried out behind the walls of workshop 5. The central challenge was to absorb the enormous weight of the machine of approx. 65 tonnes (!). For this, huge foundations had to be cast. The machine is the largest in the Weinig plant, which also means that the foundations are the largest machine foundations ever created by Weinig. Preparation involved the removal of approx. 205 tonnes of excavated earth and 170 tonnes of broken concrete from the old foundations from the main production hall. Then the reinforcing iron with a total weight of almost 10 tonnes had to be laid out. In December 2013, 102 m³ of concrete were then cast which needed a correspondingly long time to set. Finally it was possible to apply the sealing coat to the foundation in January 2014. Only local companies were involved in the excavation and foundation work.

Erection of the huge machine then started in February and took several weeks due to its size and complexity. Parallel to this, the first operator training courses were held at the manufacturer's works. Parts of the machine had already been modified there in advance to meet Weinig's needs in order to enable the machine to be put into production as quickly as possible. Furthermore, a new programming system was introduced at Weinig that can access the 3D design data directly and ensures maximum cost-effectiveness and flexibility in the work with the machine.

The new production machinery will be primarily used for processing machine stands for Weinig AG, but also for the production of machine stands for the Swedish subsidiary, Waco. The first chips have already been produced in a series of tests. Production is scheduled to commence in spring.

The relocation of machine component production for moulders from the subsidiary Waco in Sweden to Tauberbischofsheim is a measure with which the world market leader in solid wood processing machines and systems is continuing the commitment to consolidate its expertise. Tool production was also relocated from Switzerland to the Weinig company headquarters last year. With this new step, the management has given a further clear indication of its commitment to the Tauberbischofsheim site.

Photos:

1. Gigantic excavation work necessary: The new Weinig production machine sets standards in size and weight

2. Almost ready for operation: The 65-tonne giant is scheduled to go into production in the spring