AWR Blog

From Dreams to Manufacturing Reality: Gilco's Automation Success

Written by Automation Within Reach | Jul 30, 2024 1:15:00 PM

Many businesses dream of big things, but translating those dreams into reality requires taking calculated risks. That's exactly what Gilco Manufacturing, a California-based company, did when they decided to enter the world of automation. Inspired by the movie "Field of Dreams" - "if you build it, they will come" - they took a leap of faith. Their gamble paid off, attracting new customers with their one-stop-shop approach. However, to keep up with the high-volume production demands of this new venture, they quickly realized they needed a solution to optimize their processes

 

The Solution
The answer? A super helpful robot from AWR of course! Gilco decided to go with our innovative VBX-160 system. This game-changing technology seamlessly integrated with Gilco's existing Haas machines, creating a true automated powerhouse. The VBX-160 wasn't just another piece of equipment; it transformed Gilco's manufacturing floor into a more efficient and productive environment.

 

The Results
The results speak for themselves. Production time for high-volume runs was cut in half. What previously took two spindles and two weeks to complete is now achieved with just one spindle and one week. George Gilbert, Gilco's Owner/President, says, "I try to tell everybody who's been in machining for, you know, 20 years, Decades. You gotta look at a robot. It's hard to make that transition for people who haven't had one. But as soon as you see the ROI, when that thing enters your shop, it's incredible. It really is." This translates to significant cost savings plus, faster turnaround times for Gilco's customers. The best part is, that the benefits go beyond just speed.

 

Key Features
The VBX-160's automated features significantly reduced labor costs. Repetitive tasks that were once handled manually are now performed by the robot, freeing up valuable employee time for higher-level work like programming, quality control, and customer service. Another key advantage of the VBX-160 is its user-friendly design. The pre-programmed robot eliminated the need for complex training or coding requirements. This plug-and-play simplicity ensured a smooth integration process and minimized downtime. Gilco highlights this aspect in their praise, emphasizing how the robot "came ready to go" and "knew the moves it was supposed to make." This ease of use is a major benefit for companies, especially those that are new to automation.



Gilco Manufacturing's experience is a shining example of how automation can revolutionize a business. By implementing the VBX-160, they achieved significant improvements in efficiency, reduced costs, and they were able to streamline their operations. The impact is undeniable. Is your business looking to automate manufacturing processes, boost efficiency, and achieve production goals? Then look no further. Let us help you take your manufacturing to the next level!