The changes needed for the manufacturing of the Mercedes Benz GLC SUV in the paint process and the assembly shop at Valmet Automotive plant in Uusikaupunki have now been completed. The most significant change is the renewal of the top coat line in the paint shop. Valmet Automotive will commence manufacturing of the GLC in early 2017.
The paint shop and assembly shop in Uusikaupunki have multi-product lines with processes designed suitable for various vehicle models. However, each new vehicle project demands changes and updates to the lines, due to vehicle dimensions, technical characteristics and customer demands.
The paint process changes focus on the top and clear coat lines. The top coat line has been totally renewed. The manual painting and automated painting stations have been replaced with robots while the line’s structures and conveyor have also been renewed. Two robots have been added to clear coating and the station structures have been updated. These changes ensure improved productivity and high manufacturing quality.
In the assembly shop and finishing area, changes have been made to about 30 stations; these changes are mostly based on differences in size and technical solutions of the GLC and the A-Class vehicles. The most significant adjustments have been made to the conveyors and the roller tests. In addition, the assembly shop has a completely new station for assembling the GLC roof.
The production area has been extended by about one hectare, thus the area under roof is now about 13 hectares. The work in the GLC body shop is proceeding according to schedule and recruiting for the GLC manufacturing will start soon.
– We are advancing completely according to the plans for the GLC production. The adjustments in the paint process and the assembly shop were completed during the plant’s 5 week summer break, says Pasi Rannus, Senior Vice President, Manufacturing business line.
Additional information:
Communications Manager Mikael Mäki
Tel. +358 20 484 8011
E-mail: mikael.maki(at)valmet-automotive.com
Valmet Automotive is an experienced provider of automotive engineering, vehicle manufacturing, convertible roof systems and related business services. Our special areas of expertise are premium cars, convertibles and electric vehicles. We employ over 2000 professionals in Finland, Germany and Poland.
www.valmet-automotive.com and www.facebook.com/ValmetAutomotive