Eliminating CNC Downtime | Automating a Haas ST-20Y Using a Universal Robotics UR5

In this video, we go over how to fully automate a Haas CNC lathe—this is the exact overview I wish existed when we first started this project. To combat rising labor costs and run a lean machine shop, we built a DIY automation system using a Universal Robotics arm and a few components from McMaster-Carr to achieve true, hands-free lights-out manufacturing. By automating our lathe, we have eliminated operator standby time, prevented part damage that often occurs with standard parts catchers, and established perfect part tracking through a standardized drop-off grid. If you are a machinist or run a small shop, we hope this inspires you to implement your own lathe automation. Please like and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes engineering from MSB Technology!