Fastems' entry-level FMS is called the flexible pallet container (FPC)

Fastems' smallest FMS, the Flexible pallet container (FPC), is an alternative to pallet pools and provides machine tool suppliers with a complete FMS installed in a 'container'. Each FPC contains all the equipment required for an automated pallet storage and handling system. Each FPC is designed for a specific type of machine tool.

Fastems FPC flexible manufacturing system illustration

	Stacker crane Transports machine pallets: carries the pallets with a parallelogram mechanism.		FPC control system The control system is independent of the machine tool control. The software is based on full-sized FMS software. A Fastems interface to the machine control is necessary for data exchange with the machine tool.		Machine tool FPC is an open solution and can be integrated with several makes of machine tools. The machine tool needs to be equipped with a pallet changer. Only one machine tool type can be connected to a single FPC system. One machine tool can be connected to each container unit. Fastems needs to check the pallet handling for the connected machine.
	Container Storage places on up to 2 levels. Cutting fluid plates lead the cutting fluid to a central cutting fluid sump that is equipped with a pneumatic pump.		Loading station Up to 2 loading stations can be connected to the basic container.

Benefits:

Unmanned production
High utilization rates for machine tools
Same-day installation and start-up
Easy to move during factory layout changes
Compared to conventional pallet pools, the FPC is an economical way to add more production capacity
Extendable up to a two-machine system
Advanced MMS control for unmanned operation
Ergonomic and safe work environment
Automatic cutting fluid handling

Fastems FPC & FPM brochure