A path towards automation and sustainability

ADDRESSING CHALLENGES THROUGH INNOVATION

Established in 1985, Woojin Plaimm has grown into a globally recognized injection molding machine manufacturer, listed in KOSPI (Korea Composite Stock Price Index).
Like many manufacturing companies, Woojin Plaimm faces challenges such as strengthening global competitiveness and implementing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management. Particularly, issues like an aging workforce and the risk of musculoskeletal disorders were critical concerns that needed addressing to solidify its position in the injection molding machine manufacturing sector.
In seeking solutions to these challenges, Woojin Plaimm turned to Prima Power’s automatic sheet metal manufacturing systems, which improved work speed, flexibility, and workforce efficiency within a short period of time.

STREAMLINING SHEET METAL PROCESSES WITH LPBB LINE AUTOMATION

Woojin Plaimm previously outsourced various production processes, like many large Korean enterprises, but this approach often had limitations.
Mr. Sunho Kim, General Manager of Sheet Metal Team at Woojin Plaimm, explained, “While outsourcing met our requirements, it lacked opportunities for improvement, and meeting delivery deadlines was challenging. Prima Power quickly incorporated our feedback, enabling the rapid automation of our production line.”
The key contributor to enhancing WOOJIN PLAIMM’s sheet metal processes is the LPBB Line. This Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) integrates Laser cutting, Punching, Buffering, and Bending, offering high productivity through modular technology and intelligent material flow management.
Regarding Prima Power’s LPBB Line, Mr. Kim noted, “Previously, materials processed by manual punching or laser cutting machines had to be transported to bending machines with forklifts or cranes. Prima Power’s system eliminates this step, directly connecting punching and laser cutting to bending. Tasks that previously took over three days with around 20 personnel can now be completed in just 8 hours.”
The LPBB Line also reduced the required workforce on the production line from 20 to just 3, significantly lowering labor costs. Additionally, continuous in-line operation of the machines ensures consistent product quality.

FROM EFFICIENCY GAINS TO ESG MANAGEMENT WITH LASER CUTTING MACHINES

In 2022, as ESG management gained recognition, Woojin Plaimm proactively responded by receiving the Chungcheongbuk-do Governor’s Award at the Korea ESG Management Awards.
The Combi Genius, a punching/laser combi supplied by Prima Power, delivers high productivity even in confined spaces and is compatible with various automation solutions, ensuring optimal productivity and flexibility.
Another laser machine, the Laser Genius+, sets a new standard in 2D laser cutting with its fully automatic operation, from material loading to sorting and stacking. It offers superior precision thanks to its highly rigid static and dynamic structures. Equipped with high-speed motors, it achieves the fastest cutting speeds on the market and features a high-speed automatic pallet change system, a 20-station automatic nozzle changer, and a real-time process control system.
Mr. Kim shared his expectations for Prima Power’s laser machines, stating, “Woojin Plaimm places significant emphasis on ESG management, particularly environmental friendliness and energy conservation, where automation is essential. Prima Power’s laser machines enhance speed in these areas, facilitating ESG activities related to energy usage.”

REACHING THE PINNACLE OF AUTOMATION WITH PRIMA POWER’S ROBOTIC SOLUTIONS

Robots are essential for achieving full automation in manufacturing sites. Woojin Plaimm utilizes robots in various processes, enhancing efficiency through those integrated with Prima Power’s automatic machines.
Prima Power’s robotic solutions enable high-level integration and automation, including programming, ERP production management planning, feedback, and reporting. These solutions are ideal for fluctuating production volumes and parts with diverse shapes, integrating complex production steps into a single system to boost productivity and cut costs.

ACHIEVING AUTOMATION IN LOGISTICS WITH NIGHT TRAIN FMS®

The Night Train FMS (Storage, Flexible Manufacturing System), introduced to Woojin Plaimm by Prima Power, is a leading solution for automated material and semi-finished product handling, backed by 30+ years of experience and advanced engineering.
Featuring a low-profile crane and shelf structure, the Night Train FMS offers excellent storage capacity with minimal installation space. It automates material and information flow, integrating individual manufacturing stages into a flexible process. Additionally, it optimizes sheet metal production within Prima Power’s extensive range of high-performance machine tools, integrated cells, automated material handling solutions, and software.
Mr. Kim highlighted, “One reason for the aging workforce in manufacturing is poor working conditions. Prima Power’s automatic sheet metal solutions are expected to significantly lower the occurrence rate of musculoskeletal disorders caused by moving heavy products, while maintaining a clean and safe environment.” He further noted, “With Prima Power’s automatic solutions, we anticipate not only mass production of standardized products but also swift responses to customers’ urgent demands.”