With over 2 decades in the industry, Tony discusses the evolution of manual labor to robotic automation in the painting process.
This episode of "Manufacturing a Stronger Standard," is straight from the show floor at FABTECH 2023, with special guest, Tony Kerkhove, the head of our paint department at DeGeest, joining us to share his expertise and insights.
Tony brings over two decades of experience in the painting industry, starting from painting farm equipment to becoming a pivotal part of our team at DeGeest. Through his journey, he has witnessed the evolution of painting processes and techniques, transitioning from manual labor to the seamless automation of robotic systems.
A typical day at DeGeest involves Tony overseeing the robots, ensuring paint quality, and preparing parts for the painting process. With the robots handling the intricate tasks, Tony can focus on strategic adjustments and improvements to enhance efficiency and productivity in the paint line.
The introduction of robotic systems has revolutionized the painting industry, enabling precision painting, automatic color changes, and efficient program management. Tony elaborates on the various presets and adjustments made through the LestaUSA HMI interface, allowing for tailored painting techniques for different parts and scenarios.
Despite the advancements in technology, Tony emphasizes the importance of human expertise in fine-tuning the painting process. From viscosity checks to program optimization, Tony's experience and skill play a crucial role in achieving superior paint quality and consistency.
As we navigate through the complexities of painting large parts and intricate designs, Tony sheds light on the platform systems used to reach high areas safely, highlighting the blend of technology and safety measures in modern painting practices.
In conclusion, Tony reflects on his career at DeGeest, acknowledging the significant impact on his physical well-being and professional growth. Painting at DeGeest is not just a job but a fulfilling career filled with continuous learning and innovation.
Join us on the journey of manufacturing a stronger standard, where expertise meets technology to redefine industry standards and drive progress.
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