Collaborative Robots Set for Deployment at Kirovsky Mayak Plant
Cobots are expected to improve machine loading efficiency in the plant’s mechanical workshop
PAO Kirovsky zavod Mayak (Kalashnikov Concern) plans to purchase robotic systems for the first time in 2026, according to the company’s press service. The equipment includes collaborative robots, or cobots, which are designed to speed up machine loading in the mechanical workshop.
Lathes and Cobots Replace Manual Operation
With the introduction of cobots, the plant will build flexible manufacturing cells, each combining several lathes with a cobot operating in place of a human operator. Automation is expected to reduce reliance on manual labor while significantly improving the quality of manufactured parts.
The plant also plans to continue expanding the use of computer numerical control (CNC) lathes. This will help reduce the number of production steps. Additional equipment is being delivered to mechanize manual work performed by technicians and cleaning staff. Some machines will be fitted with automated part-loading systems.
In-House Robotic Systems
In the longer term, the plant plans to develop its own robotic systems. As production volumes grow, demand for such equipment is increasing as well. The company sees strong potential in this area. To support these goals, Mayak has established a dedicated department for mechanization, automation, and robotics.
Earlier, it was reported that AO LOMO (Leningrad Optical Mechanical Association), one of Russia’s oldest and leading optical instrument manufacturers based in St. Petersburg, is testing its first collaborative robot.
