MLS – Multi-Level System
MLS Automates Your Machining & More
Multi-Level System (MLS) is a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) that automates milling and turning machine tools from over 90 brands to manufacture your part mix efficiently. MLS accommodates machine pallets and raw material pallets from 400 to 1600 mm. It also integrates your selected value-adding processes such as finishing, washing, measuring – and is fully compatible with Fastems tool automation.
A wide range of configurable loading and material stations allow safe and ergonomic operation for your parts from 500 to 11,000 kgs (1,000 to 25,000 lbs).
MLS utilizes full module stack of the industry’s leading manufacturing control system, MMS, that is designed to plan, run and monitor high mix production.
Your Needs, Your MLS
MLS is a configurable CNC automation system for milling and turning machining centers and other devices from over 90 different brands. Wide integration options, horizontal and vertical adjustability for any space, and the industry-leading control software MMS make MLS the #1 automation choice for high mix manufacturers.
Your needs – your system! MLS integrates with many types of milling and turning machine tools, other devices, and software.
The storage modules, loading stations and material stations are configured specifically for your space and your parts.
MLS can be extended later on when you need more capacity. You can also add other processes such as measuring, finishing and washing.
Compare MLS with Other Systems in the Market
Compared to traditional FMS, MLS offers higher configurability for various part sizes and geometries, more intelligent production control software, higher extension and customization options for future needs, as well as wider integration options.
Features
| Traditional FMS | MLS | |
| Machine type | Milling | Milling and turning |
| For new or existing machine tools | New | Both |
| Average spindle utilization | 65% | 85% |
| Extensible | Yes | Yes |
| Order prioritization | Manual | Automatic |
| Real-time KPI reporting | No | Yes |
Integrations
| Traditional FMS | MLS | |
| Material pallets | No | Yes |
| Tool automation | No | Yes |
| Machine types per system | One | Many |
| Other devices | No | Yes |
| Robotic applications | No | Yes |
Manufacturing Management Software
MMS, the control software of Fastems automation systems, is designed specifically for high-mix manufacturing needs. It is a tool for everyone working in production or management, giving a real-time view on what happens in production and most importantly, identifying exactly what needs to be done next to ensure timely deliveries and maximum spindle utilization.
1 | Production Planning
MMS generates production schedule automatically based on customer orders in your ERP or other system. It adapts automatically to sudden changes such as rush jobs or machine breaks.
2 | Production Resource Check
MMS checks all the needed production in advance: NC programs, machines, tools, materials and fixtures. MMS guides your team to prepare the needed resources before the machining is about to begin.
3 | New Workpiece Introduction
Introducing new work pieces into production happens fast with EasyRoute feature, and the Order Generator enables automatic production for recurring or stock balanced orders.
4 | Track Production KPIs
MMS monitors production and reports key performance indicators in real time – as well as gathers production data and gives practical tips to users on how to improve productivity even further.
MLS Technical Data
MLS comes with various options to fit with any part mix you might have. We can also offer fully customized sizing for more special needs.
| LD | MD | MDR | DSR | XMD | HD | XHD | Special | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machine tool access | APC | APC | APC / Direct loading | APC / Direct loading | APC | APC | APC | Custom |
| Load weight (kg) | 700 | 1500-1800 | 1800 | 2000 | 2500-3000 | 6000 | 10000 | Custom |
| Machine pallet size (mm) | 400-500 | 500-630 | 500-630 | 630-800 | 500-800 | 800-1250 | 1000-1600 | Custom |
| Maximum load size (mm) | 800×700 | 1800×1400 | 1125×1125 (⌀1250) | 1150×1150 ( ⌀1280) | 1800×1800 | 2700×1700 | Custom | Custom |
| Load height incl. pallet (mm) | 1000 | 1800 | 1800 | 1800 | 1800 | 2000 | Custom | Custom |
| Stacker crane load handler | Parallelogram | Telescopic forks | Rotating handler | Rotating handler | Telescopic forks | Telescopic forks | Telescopic forks | Custom |
| Material pallets in the same system | Custom pallets | Yes | Custom pallets | Custom pallets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Check the MLS Customer Videos
See how other manufacturers have automated their machining and other processes with MLS, and reached amazing results!
Integrate More Processes into Your MLS
Here’s a list of other Fastems automation solutions you can integrate into your MLS. In addition to Fastems’ offering, you can integrate any of your own devices such as CMM, surface treatment machinery, washing and drying, and many more.
RFC – Robotic Finishing Cell
Modular RFC, a robot-supported automation system for the flexible deburring of different workpieces
TSC – Tool Service Cell
Tool Service Cell is a robot-based setup cell that automates the cutting tool renewal process.
Tool Automation
Automated tool logistics save money by increased unmanned production hours and secured availability.
ALD – Autoloading Cell
Automated raw material loading and ready part unloading with a robot – stable quality and longer unmanned production periods.
Download High-Mix CNC Automation Guide
If you are under consideration on how to solve the challenges of production cost per unit, high WIP, long lead times, quality or traceability in mixed manufacturing environment, you want to read this guide.
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