Insight

Through the development of a more powerful range of equipment, the Schwer + Kopka product line of the Marposs Group is able to further accelerate the digitalisation of production of its customers. 

Based in Weingarten, Germany, Schwer + Kopka GmbH offers its own range of machine terminals and process monitoring systems, plus a comprehensive MES solution in terms of Industry 4.0. In recent years, the company has launched the new SK410 and SK5.12 device generations, which have been key developments. 

“On the one hand, we have been using tried and tested piezo sensors for several years, and on the other hand, more and more flexible sensor solutions are being developed in order to carry out measurements as close to the process as possible,” explains Joachim Krüger, head of sales support forming and stamping at Marposs Monitoring Solutions GmbH. “Together, with our customers, we are trying to advance the targeted ‘zero error’ strategy and interconnected production, which is why innovation is the driving force behind our customer relationships.”

As a business Schwer + Kopka has also been investing in the software development of its MES software C-Thru4.0MES, where it sees a long-term opportunity to create significant added value for its customers as a central interface in production.

“For years we have offered technical solutions for process monitoring in forming technology, which is characterised by the best possible sensor placement, proven algorithms, and the corresponding endurance monitoring devices,” states Joachim. “To continuously raise the technology standard, our application engineers are in daily contact with machine manufacturers and customers to make sure our solutions are meeting every need and requirement.”

The company’s core business is sensors and evaluation devices for metal forming technology. In addition, there are various software solutions for networking production, including communication with external systems such as ERP or CAQ providers. “The focus on process data and digitalisation is also becoming increasingly important for customers, so the product portfolio will certainly be expanded in this sector,” mentions Joachim. 

By using the monitoring units from Schwer + Kopka, customers can also ensure they are meeting sustainability requirements, with resources such as material and energy used in the best possible way, as Schwer + Kopka’s monitoring units can help minimise scrap and, with the combination of the MES solution C-Thru4.0MES, aggregates can be switched off promptly at the end of the job. “A practical example is that a warning message can be issued when there are too many empty strokes – so that immediate action can be taken and the machine does not run idle,” highlights Joachim. 

He concludes: “Through our own range of machine terminals, and process monitoring systems, plus a comprehensive MES solution in terms of Industry 4.0, customers are able to produce more parts with less operators – whilst still protecting the machines and tools. Predictive maintenance is gaining in importance, where an evaluation of the force curves already provides detailed indications of wear, and we will continue to provide innovative solutions to meet customers’ ongoing needs.”