In 1990, Felsomat introduced the FZ250 Compact Cell, the first autonomous loading system designed to enable all manufacturing processes to be completely decoupled. The world's leading transmission gear manufacturers immediately realized many advantages of this concept, which uses wire baskets to transfer gears between processes to prevent damage to gears prior to hardening. Each machine tool is decoupled with its own loader which creates an open structure that is completely flexible, accessible for maintenance and quick to change over as production demands.

At IMTS 2016, Felsomat will unveil the latest version of the Flexible Stacking Cell, the FSC 600, that will be displayed together with a Reishauer gear-grinding machine. This new cell is completely built on a fabricated base for easy transportation and quick installation. The base is also designed to contain any cutting fluids that may be required in the machining process and prevent those fluids from migrating to the factory floor. Additionally, the cell features active basket hanger locks that ensure an accurate and uninterrupted loading sequence and allow for a higher tolerance in the baskets. This type of automation is available with a gantry loader or with a Fanuc robot.

Also on display for the first time is the enhanced FHC 80 hobbing machine with integrated conveyor that is loaded/unloaded directly from/to dunnage with skewers. This solution minimizes floor space requirement and is controlled directly by the machine in one compact hobbing cell. Additional modules can be added to unload into heat treatment alloys or baskets.