Innovation in the Automation of Hydraulic Valve Production

VIS Hydraulics, a leading company in the design and production of cartridge-type hydraulic valves, identified the welded sleeve as a crucial component for the proper functioning of its solenoid valves. Due to its strategic importance, this element required an in-house production process that was both efficient and reliable. However, the company faced the challenge of automating this process to achieve the highest standards of quality, productivity, and reliability — essential to meet the demands of the global market.

The Challenge: Automating a Key Process

VIS Hydraulics needed a partner capable of developing an automation solution for the production of the welded sleeve. Despite several attempts with other suppliers, none had been able to meet the company’s requirements for advanced, fully integrated technology. At the same time, market demands were increasingly focused on production efficiency, defect reduction, and improving the quality of the final product.

The Tecnorobot Solution: A Custom Robotic Cell

VIS first met Tecnorobot at a trade fair in Italy. From the beginning, there was a strong alignment between the two companies, with Tecnorobot quickly understanding VIS’s automation needs. This collaboration led to the development of the first robotic welding cell—a turnkey solution created by Tecnorobot that integrated multiple advanced technologies, including multi-spindle systems and automated preheating and cooling units.

The proposed solution offered VIS exceptional ease of use thanks to its ergonomic and compact design. It enabled the automation of highly complex processes, minimizing the risk of human error while significantly boosting operational efficiency.

Implementation: Speed and Expertise

The installation process was handled with precision and speed. Tecnorobot demonstrated strong organizational capabilities, successfully meeting the tight deadlines set by VIS, which needed the system operational in record time to launch a new strategic production line.

One of the main challenges was the integration of several new technologies, which required in-depth training for VIS personnel. Tecnorobot supported this phase with on-site training sessions, followed by remote assistance to ensure a smooth and gradual transition to full production capacity.

Results: Increased Productivity and Reduced Waste

Thanks to the implementation of the robotic islands, VIS achieved a significant boost in both productivity and product quality. Tecnorobot’s welding islands have become a flagship element of VIS’s production process, ensuring precision, repeatability, and a dramatic reduction in waste.

The company estimated a 50% decrease in scrap, greatly improving its competitive margins. Furthermore, automation enabled VIS to eliminate most human errors, ensuring that the final product consistently met the highest quality standards — as confirmed by the positive feedback received from clients.

Looking Ahead

VIS Hydraulics has no intention of stopping here. The company already plans to continue investing in innovation and automation, aiming to apply robotic technologies even to processes that currently seem less suited to automation. This forward-looking approach will further strengthen its position in the global market.

Conclusion

The collaboration between VIS Hydraulics and Tecnorobot has resulted in mutual success, with the integration of robotic solutions that have transformed VIS’s production process—making it more efficient, reliable, and competitive. This partnership remains a strong example of how technological innovation and automation can deliver significant benefits in terms of productivity and quality.