Projects
Starter Stripping Sheet Automation Driving Safety and Efficiency in Copper Production
By Daniel Chaplin, General Manager at EPCM Engineering
In Arizona, USA, EPCM has developed an innovative project for the copper industry: Starter Sheet Stripping Automation. This is the first time we have created a starter sheet stripping machine, using our experience and R&D team to develop a test solution. This project, led by the EPCM Group in collaboration with one of our most important clients in the USA, aims to improve the quality of starter sheets, increase safety, and enhance efficiency.
Project Objectives
The primary objective of the project is to introduce a high-capacity stripping machine capable of processing up to 3000 starter sheets per day. Utilizing advanced robotics and automation technology, this machine is expected to set a new standard in production efficiency, reinforcing our client’s position as a key player in the copper industry.
Efficiency and Performance
The project aims to achieve a production rate of 3000 starter sheets within a 10-hour period, averaging 150 sheets per hour. The machine is designed with a suitable load capacity to handle fully plated cathodes, up to 400 lbs, with approximately 150 lbs of copper on each side. This ensures precise stacking and maintains the straightness of the sheets
Quality and Safety
From conceptualization to implementation, our experts at EPCM meticulously plan each step of the project. All components are integrated with precision, ensuring compliance with stringent quality standards. The weighing and scanning of each cathode guarantee adherence to predefined criteria, ensuring that the starter sheets are stripped from the mother blanks with high quality.
Each copper sheet is weighed to ensure it meets the requirements. An AI-based system evaluates and eliminates the need for manual inspection of the copper sheets, automatically identifying and rejecting any that do not meet the criteria. Manual stripping of copper sheets is minimized, reducing risks for employees. The system ensures that the copper sheets remain flat and maintain their correct shape while rejecting those with nodules. Implementing this solution in a brownfield setting was challenging, but our engineering team made it possible.
“The Starter Stripping Sheet Automation project is a significant milestone for EPCM and our client. This initiative underscores our commitment to improving copper production efficiency and demonstrates our ability to integrate advanced automation technologies into existing industrial processes. This project is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our highly skilled engineering teams and the innovative vision of our partners. We are proud to contribute to the copper industry with innovative solutions that prioritize both quality and safety.” Godfrey Harrylal, Project Manager at EPCM
About EPCM
At The EPCM Group, we specialize in solving our clients’ most difficult operational challenges with single-source, life-cycle solutions. For over 40 years, we’ve helped industry leaders around the world with integrated solutions, including engineering consulting, automation, spare parts, supply, and service. For more information on this groundbreaking project and others, visit our website: www.epcm.com
