SC-1000 Automatic Sorting Carousel for MI Cable

Automatic batch sorting for unattended MI cable production

The SC-1000 is an automatic sorting carousel designed for the CS-1100 MI Cable Cutting & Straightening Machine. It automatically collects cut-to-length mineral insulated (MI) cable in separate trays according to the active production job, allowing multiple cutting jobs to run consecutively without manual sorting or operator intervention between batches.

By synchronising directly with the CS-1100, the SC-1000 automatically indexes to the next collection tray when a production batch is completed. This prevents different cable lengths or production jobs from becoming mixed and enables longer periods of unattended MI cable production.

Key features of the SC-1000

+ Designed specifically for the CS-1100

+ Automated job queue for unattended multi-batch production

+ Automatic indexing between production batches

+ Separate collection trays with automatic product sorting

+ Eliminates manual sorting and prevents mixed products

+ Retrofit solution for existing CS-1100 machines

+ Integrated Ethernet communication for future automation

How does the SC-1000 automatically sort MI cable?

Production jobs are programmed

Operators can program multiple production jobs into the CS-1100 before starting production. Each job can contain a different cutting length and production quantity. The CS-1100 and SC-1000 then process the programmed job queue sequentially, without requiring the operator to stop the machine and manually separate products between batches.

Finished cable sections are collected

Each production job is assigned to a separate collection tray. This keeps cut MI cable from different jobs physically separated and reduces the risk of mixing products with different lengths or specifications.

  • Better production organisation
  • No manual sorting after production
  • Reduced risk of mixing cable lengths
  • Improved batch identification
  • Easier downstream assembly

Automatic synchronisation

The SC-1000 communicates directly with the CS-1100. When the programmed quantity for the active production job has been reached, the cutting process pauses while the carousel indexes to the next collection position. Once the correct tray is in position, the next production job can begin automatically.

The carousel automatically indexes

Instead of continuously monitoring the machine and manually separating cable sections, operators can focus on assembly, quality control, or other production tasks.

Internal production evaluations have shown reductions in operator handling time of approximately 65% in selected production scenarios compared with manually monitoring and sorting output from the CS-1100. Actual savings depend on batch sizes, production mix and workflow.

This makes the Sorting Carousel particularly valuable for manufacturers experiencing labour shortages or increasing production volumes.


SC-1000 technical specifications

Supported cable diameter1 – 8 mm
Supported cable length750 – 1000 mm
Number of positions10 trays
Dimensions1530x540x900 mm (LxWxH)

Check the SC-1000 datasheet for full specifications


Can the SC-1000 be added to an existing CS-1100?

The Sorting Carousel has been designed as an extension of the existing CS-1100 platform. Manufacturers already operating a CS-1100 can upgrade their machine without replacing the complete system. The upgrade consists of:

  • Software update
  • Communication interface
  • Mechanical connection to the carousel

This protects previous investments while providing a straightforward path towards increased automation.

Benefits for manufacturers:

  • Longer unattended production
  • Multiple jobs in one production run
  • Elimination of manual sorting
  • Lower risk of mixed production batches
  • Higher operator productivity
  • Better traceability
  • Improved production flow
  • Future-proof automation platform

Part of the TMF automation platform

The sorting carousel is more than an automatic sorting device. It represents the next step in TMF’s vision of Complete Production Process Automation. Today’s production flow:

Spool Holder CS-1100 → Sorting Carousel

Tomorrow’s production line:

Spool Holder → CS-1100 → Sorting Carousel → Laser Grooving Unit → Robotic Handling → Laser Welding → Fully Automated Temperature Sensor Manufacturing

By investing in modular automation today, manufacturers can gradually expand their production line without replacing existing equipment.

Developed together with customers

Continuous product development is an important part of the TMF philosophy. Feedback from early users has already influenced several design improvements.

Long product support

Customers producing cable lengths exceeding approximately one metre requested the ability to process long products without removing the sorting carousel. The current design therefore allows future configurations where longer products can pass through the system while the carousel remains installed.

Moisture management

Another customer suggestion was the use of trays with mesh bottoms, allowing desiccant material to be placed underneath the collected products. This can help reduce moisture exposure during temporary storage of cut MI cable before further processing.

These examples demonstrate how practical customer feedback continues to shape the development of the sorting carousel.
These steps ensure that the spool holder operates efficiently, providing a steady and consistent feed of wire into the cutting and straightening machine, minimising manual intervention, and optimising productivity.

Ready for the next step in automation?

Whether you are purchasing a new CS-1100 or already operating one, the sorting carousel provides a simple way to increase productivity and prepare your production line for further automation.

Contact our engineers to discuss how the sorting carousel can be integrated into your manufacturing process.