Requirements in control panel and switchgear manufacturing are continuously increasing. Shorter throughput times, greater product variety, and a persistent shortage of skilled workers are posing structural challenges to the industry. Consistent, data-driven automation is seen as the key to addressing these developments. With the Wire Handling System, Rittal Automation Systems introduces a new component for automated wire distribution. The system is designed to work in conjunction with the Wire Terminal WT C wire processing center. It transports pre-assembled wires via compressed air to up to four workstations. Wires are provided just-in-time and just-in-sequence, significantly reducing internal logistics effort and storage requirements.
Integration of the Wire Handling System into existing processes
The system consists of a wire distributor, wire receivers, and Teflon tubes. It supports wire cross-sections from 0.5 to 6 square millimeters and lengths from 220 to 4,000 millimeters. The maximum transport distance is 80 meters. Through direct integration with the Eplan Smart Production software platform, the right wire is delivered to the correct workstation at the right time.
Wire distribution supports digitally guided wiring
In combination with Eplan Smart Wiring, the Wire Handling System becomes part of a digital assistance system. Based on engineering data from a digital twin, the sequence of wire requests is automatically managed. This enables even less experienced personnel to perform error-free and accelerated wiring. According to the provider, time savings of up to 90 percent in wire processing are achievable.
Wire Handling System closes automation gap
The automated wire distribution system expands Rittal Automation Systems' existing portfolio for end-to-end automation. Especially in high-throughput operations, the system helps optimize workforce deployment while maintaining production quality. It is also designed for future developments such as the integration of wiring robots.
Wire Handling System prepares companies for future of control panel and switchgear manufacturing
Thorsten Eberz, Head of Product Management at Rittal Automation Systems, summarizes: "The new Wire Handling System immediately generates added value by further accelerating the wiring process and by reducing errors through the interaction of Eplan software and the output system. At the same time, companies can begin preparing for the future of panel building and switchgear manufacturing with this solution: Not only can the Wire Distribution System be used to supply workstations, but also future wiring robots.”
