Machine Tending
Machine tending is using a robot to load and unload a production machine — CNC, press, or moulding — freeing operators and running unattended shifts.
Machine tending is the application of loading raw parts into a machine (CNC mill or lathe, injection moulder, press, grinder) and unloading the finished part. The robot replaces the repetitive, sometimes hazardous manual loading step.
Machine tending lets a single robot serve one or several machines, enabling lights-out or extended unattended operation. It needs reliable part presentation, machine interfacing (door, chuck, signals), and often a safety-rated cell or a cobot.
Machine tending is one of the most common reasons to buy a used robot — payloads and reach are well understood. Confirm the robot's I/O and fieldbus can talk to your machine before purchase.