Use of the SABER fully automatic handling system significantly increases the throughput capacity, workplace safety and process reliability at an EBNER bell annealer facility, even as it reduces maintenance and personnel costs. The facility requires no overhead crane, and can be installed in lightly-built shop structures. The new bell annealer design is economical to operate, even with small batch sizes and low throughputs. Its modular design allows it to be easily expanded by adding additional workbases.