Brazil – Axle and suspension systems supplier, Suspensys Sistemas Automotivos Ltda of Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul State (a Randon Empresas subsidiary) has announced it is to invest  BRA20 million (USD4m) in a new automated production line in Caxais do Sul, to manufacture axle beams.  

The investment is in new ‘Industry 4.0’ processes to make production more efficient and to increase production capacity to 300,000 beams a year. The investment includes a new friction welding machine, which is combined with a full robotization and automation infrastructure, designed and developed by Randon Tech Solutions – RTS Industry. The new production line is to have 21 robots for welding and moving components, as well as mechanisms that enable simulations, use of IoT, augmented reality, connectivity, cyber security and remote control of operations. This investment, Suspensys says, will make the industrial park located in Caxias do Sul (RS) one of the largest and most advanced axle beam factories in the Americas.