Background
Enbi, a global provider of advanced materials and components for various industrial applications, recently partnered with a leading manufacturer of automated teller machines (ATMs). The project focuses on optimizing the rollers responsible for moving cash within the ATM system, with the goals of extending roller lifespan, reducing maintenance needs, and improving overall machine reliability.
Challenge
ATMs are critical for financial institutions, providing customers with convenient access to cash and other services. Within these machines, rollers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and reliable movement of cash. However, the constant wear and tear on these components can lead to issues such as:
- Frequent Roller Wear and Tear: The rollers experience high friction and continuous operation, leading to significant wear. This can result in frequent breakdowns and the need for regular replacements, increasing operational costs.
- High Maintenance Demands: To maintain uptime and avoid service interruptions, ATM operators must conduct frequent maintenance checks, which are both time-consuming and costly.
- Reduced Machine Availability: As roller failure can lead to machine downtime, the ATM manufacturer was looking for ways to increase roller durability and minimize disruptions in ATM service availability.
To address these challenges, the manufacturer sought a partner with expertise in advanced materials and friction reduction, capable of delivering a solution that would enhance roller performance without requiring significant design changes to the ATM units.
Solution
Enbi brought its material engineering expertise to the table, providing a solution designed to reduce friction, extend roller lifespan, and lower maintenance needs. Enbi’s approach included the following key components:
- High-Performance Roller Coatings: Enbi developed and supplied specialized coatings for the rollers. These coatings are formulated to resist wear and reduce friction, enhancing the durability of the rollers. The coatings also reduce the adhesion of dust and other particles, which can otherwise contribute to roller degradation over time.
- Advanced Materials for Roller Construction: Enbi recommended and supplied rollers made from high-quality materials with enhanced hardness and resilience. By using these materials, the rollers can withstand the high levels of stress and friction they experience during cash handling operations, effectively extending their operational life.
- Custom Engineering Support: Enbi worked closely with the ATM manufacturer’s engineering team to ensure that the new rollers and coatings integrated seamlessly with the existing system design. Enbi provided technical support during the design phase, as well as guidance on installation and ongoing maintenance procedures.
Implementation
The project was rolled out in phases, allowing Enbi and the ATM manufacturer to assess the effectiveness of the solution at each step:
Phase 1 – Prototype Development and Testing: Enbi supplied a batch of coated rollers for initial testing. The ATM manufacturer tested these rollers under various operational conditions, including high usage scenarios. The coated rollers showed a significant reduction in wear and friction compared to the standard rollers, indicating a promising improvement in durability.
Phase 2 – Production Rollout: Following successful testing, Enbi scaled up production to supply rollers for the manufacturer’s entire range of ATMs. Enbi’s production facilities and logistics network ensured a smooth and timely delivery, allowing the manufacturer to incorporate the new rollers into their systems with minimal disruption.
Phase 3 – Performance Monitoring and Optimization: To further enhance the roller design, Enbi continues to monitor performance data and collaborate with the ATM manufacturer on any necessary adjustments. This ongoing partnership allows for continuous improvements and ensures that the solution remains aligned with the manufacturer’s evolving needs.
Results
- The collaboration has yielded several significant benefits for both the ATM manufacturer and their customers:
Extended Roller Lifespan: The specialized coatings and high-performance materials have extended roller life by over 50%, reducing the frequency of replacements and lowering overall maintenance costs. - Reduced Maintenance Requirements: With the improved durability and friction resistance, ATMs equipped with Enbi’s rollers require less frequent maintenance, leading to cost savings and improved uptime.
- Improved Machine Availability: The longer-lasting rollers and reduced maintenance needs have led to increased ATM availability, providing a better experience for end-users and reducing downtime for operators.
Conclusion
Enbi’s partnership with the ATM manufacturer demonstrates the value of targeted material solutions in enhancing the durability and reliability of critical components. By supplying advanced roller materials and coatings, Enbi has not only addressed immediate challenges related to wear and maintenance but also positioned the ATM manufacturer for long-term success. This project showcases Enbi’s ability to deliver customized solutions that improve product performance, reduce operational costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.
