AUTOMATED

FLOW LINES
An automated flow line consists of
several machines or workstations which
are linked together by work handling
devices that transfer parts between the
stations.
Example of an Automated Flow Line Configuration
OBJECTIVES OF 1 2 3
THE USE OF To increase
To reduce To reduce
FLOW LINE labor costs production
rates
work-in-
process

AUTOMATION

4 5 6
To minimize To achieve To achieve
distances specialization integration
moved of
between of
operations operations
operations
 Types of
Automated
Flow Lines
IN-LINE TYPE
The in-line configuration
consists of a sequence of
workstations in a
more-or-less straight-line
arrangement as shown.
An in-line transfer machine used for metal-cutting operations
SEGMENTED IN-LINE TYPE
The segmented in-line
configuration consists of two
or more straight-line
arrangement
which are usually
perpendicular to each other
L-Shaped U-Shaped

Rectangular-Shaped
ROTARY TYPE
In the rotary configuration, the
workparts are indexed around
a circular table or
dial. The workstations are
stationary and usually located
around the outside periphery
of the dial.
 This type of equipment is
often referred to as an indexing machine or dial index machine
Selection
In-Line vs. Rotary
In-Line/Segmented In-Line Rotary
• Preferable for larger workpieces • Commonly limited to smaller
and can accommodate a larger workpieces and to fewer stations.
number of workstations. • Limited to smaller workpieces and
• Available floor space may limit the to fewer stations.
length of the line • Involves a lower-cost piece of
• Allows reorientation of the equipment and typically requires
workplace to present different less factory floor space.
surfaces for machining
• The rectangular layout enables the
return of work holding fixtures to
the front of the line for reuse
• In-line machines can be fabricated
with a built-in storage capability to
smooth out the effect of work
stoppages at individual stations
and other irregularities.