From manual to automated production

Our goal: automating MI temperature sensor production, step by step

We offer machines that automate the production of mineral insulated (MI) temperature sensors, one process step at a time. Our goal is not to sell standalone machines, but to build a complete automation ecosystem that removes manual labour, improves consistency, and makes your operators more productive.

The problem: MI sensor production is still largely manual

If you produce MI temperature sensors today, you will recognise this process. Most of it is still done by hand:

  • Straightening and cutting cutting the MI cable because of the MgO insulation inside the cable.
  • Stripping the MI cable
  • Welding the conductors
  • Sealing the thermocouples thoroughly
  • Testing, while keeping humidity under control, because moisture ingress in MI cable is unacceptable

Each of these steps demands skill, attention and time. And that creates three problems that compound each other.

Three challenges manufacturers face today

1. Manual processes limit production capacity

MI temperature sensor production is highly specialised work. Every manual operation requires time from a skilled operator. Increasing production output often means increasing labour capacity rather than improving process efficiency.

As demand grows, manual processes become difficult to scale. Automation allows manufacturers to increase output without simply adding more manual operations.

2. Production consistency depends on the operator

Most manufacturers have detailed work instructions. However, even with clear procedures, every operator develops their own working method over time.

Differences in handling, cutting, stripping or assembly can influence the final result.

For applications where accuracy, repeatability and traceability are critical, reducing operator dependency is an important advantage.

3. Skilled personnel are becoming harder to find

Producing high-quality MI temperature sensors requires knowledge and experience. Training new operators takes time, while experienced specialists are becoming increasingly valuable.

Automation does not replace expertise.

Instead, it allows skilled operators to focus on tasks where their knowledge creates the most value, while repetitive operations become more consistent and reliable.

Why existing automation falls short

Automation solutions for individual production steps already exist. However, many available systems focus on solving only one isolated operation.

Manufacturers often encounter limitations such as:

The result is often a collection of individual tools rather than one integrated production workflow. We saw an opportunity to approach automation differently.

Our approach: automation step by step

We believe complete automation should not start with replacing an entire production line. Instead, automation should grow logically from the real challenges manufacturers face every day. Every machine we develop starts with one question: Which production step creates the biggest bottleneck today?

Once that challenge is identified, we develop a solution that improves:

– Process consistency
– Production efficiency
– Operator productivity

Each machine is designed as a building block for a larger automation ecosystem. Step by step, individual improvements become a connected manufacturing process.


The Machines Factory portfolio

Every machine in our portfolio was developed to solve a specific production challenge. Several developments started directly from customer feedback and real manufacturing situations.

CS-1100

Automating MI cable straightening and cutting

One of the first challenges we addressed was one of the most fundamental steps in MI temperature sensor production: straightening and burr free cutting MI cable.

Manual cutting can be time-consuming and achieving consistent lengths depends heavily on operator experience. The CS-1100 automates this process by automatically straightening and cutting MI cable with high repeatability.

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Electronic spool holder (horizontal & vertical)

Improving cable handling and feeding consistency

Automation does not only depend on the machine performing the operation. Material handling before and during the process is equally important.

Especially with smaller MI cable diameters, manual handling can result in uncontrolled winding and tangled cable.

This affects productivity and can influence the consistency of the cutting process. The electronic spool holder provides controlled and constant cable feeding.

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Wire straightener

Automating small diameter wire processing

Small diameter wires can be difficult to straighten manually. To solve this challenge, we developed a wire straightener based on the same principles as the CS-1100.

The system combines controlled spool feeding, integrated tension management, rotary wire straightening, accurate cutting, and automatic wire collection in a single continuous process. This ensures stable wire handling, consistent cut lengths, and high repeatability throughout production.

The machine is designed for solid wire applications with diameters from 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

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Sorting carousel

Automating handling and improving traceability

Automation does not stop after cutting. Handling and organisation are equally important parts of a reliable production process. The sorting carousel automatically collects and separates cut parts after processing.

The system communicates directly with the CS-1100, keeping production jobs synchronised. The machine continues working while operators focus on other tasks. The machine can be left unattended. When operators return, all cut parts are sorted into separate trays.

Laser grooving unit

A new approach to MI cable stripping

MI cable stripping remains one of the most challenging steps in sensor production. Traditional stripping methods may work well for specific applications, but manufacturers often require more flexibility and consistency.

Our laser grooving unit introduces a controlled laser groove into the MI cable sheath. This allows the cable tip to be removed quickly and accurately without damaging the internal conductors or MgO insulation.

The laser grooving unit represents an important step toward a more robust and scalable MI cable preparation process.

Where we are heading

Looking further ahead, our ambition is to keep expanding the portfolio. Partly driven by what customers ask us for. Future developments may include junction forming and welding systems, seal-and-fill stations, and dry-bake thermal chambers.

We are not developing standalone machines. We are building a complete automation ecosystem, step by step.

Built in the Netherlands, supported worldwide

All our machines are designed, built and assembled in the Netherlands. We have supplied customers across Europe and in the United States.

Because our machines are connected through an integrated network, we provide remote support wherever your facility is located. We have performed software updates remotely and assisted customers with diagnostics from a distance — so geography does not limit the support you receive.

Recognise these challenges?

Would you like to explore how automation could improve your MI temperature sensor manufacturing process?

Our team would be happy to discuss your current workflow and identify the next step toward a more efficient production environment.