The Friedrich Amtenbrink steel service center has embraced cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency and improve working conditions. The EasyGrinder grinding robot from Teqram has not only replaced three temporary workers but also streamlined production processes. Automation saves valuable time, reduces physical strain, and lowers labour costs – offering a significant competitive edge.
A Legacy of Excellence in Steel Processing
For over 55 years, Friedrich Amtenbrink GmbH & Co. KG, based in Gütersloh, Germany, has been a market leader in high-quality steel processing. With a workforce of more than 120 employees, the company provides services such as flame , plasma and laser cutting, and tool steel processing. Clients in mechanical and tool engineering, agricultural machinery, automotive supply, and valve manufacturing benefit from the steel service center’s flexibility and industry expertise.
Automation Enhances Productivity and Reduces Workload
Since late 2024, the EasyGrinder has been responsible for post-processing up to 1,500 flame-cut and plasma-cut parts per day. The robot fully automates the processing of oxyacetylene and plasma-cut components ranging from 20 to 100 mm, without requiring complex programming. It efficiently removes slag, breaks edges, grinds bevels, and applies marking for part identification, all without any manual intervention.
Replacing Labour-Intensive Manual Processes
Previously, post-processing involved four distinct manual steps, requiring multiple handling operations. This was both time-consuming and physically demanding for employees. Now, following the initial shot blasting process, the EasyGrinder autonomously completes all subsequent steps. This not only saves time but also significantly reduces physical strain on the workforce.
Unexpected Additional Benefits
The EasyGrinder’s capabilities were especially evident in a batch of 400 components, each weighing 50 kg, requiring dot-peening before delivery. This task would typically have taken at least two manual shifts. However, the EasyGrinder completed the entire batch overnight, fully automated. Even heavy laser-cut parts, initially deemed unsuitable for robotic processing, were efficiently handled. While an existing deburring machine could have performed the task, it would have required an employee and an overhead crane for prolonged periods due to the weight.
Sustainable Advantages for the Company and Workforce
Thanks to this investment, Amtenbrink has not only optimized production but also reduced its reliance on temporary workers. Operations Manager Sultan Nayebi highlights: “Finding new temporary workers for this demanding and unpopular task was a constant challenge. With the EasyGrinder, we now have a sustainable solution.”
Employee Enthusiasm
Permanent employees are equally impressed: “It feels like we have a new colleague who never tires and takes on the toughest jobs. This allows us to focus on more critical tasks.”
Engineered for the Industrial Environment
Nayebi also values the EasyGrinder’s practical design. Teqram, founded as a spin-off from a sheet metal processing company, has deep industry expertise. “It’s clear that the Teqram team understands real-world industrial needs. The EasyGrinder is built for the harsh conditions of a steel service center and withstands dust, cold, and demanding environments.”
Future ready
With the EasyGrinder, Amtenbrink is setting new standards for modern, efficient manufacturing and improved working conditions. By combining automation with ergonomic benefits, the company is future-proofing its operations.
Teqram Vision Guided Robotics
Teqram develops and supplies fully autonomous robot systems for loading and unloading deburring, levelling, and shot blasting systems, as well as for deslagging, grinding, and deburring sheet metal parts. Equipped with the advanced EasyEye 3D vision system and AI-based controller, Teqram’s robots operate fully autonomously. They automatically recognize pallets, stacks, and product geometries, eliminating the need for manual programming.
For further information visit: www.teqram.com
