FEATURE Materials Handling
True metal precision with automated lasers
David McStrafick, Director for sheet metal manufacturers at Salamander Fabrications, explains how the metal manufacturing businesses can benefit from automation
T forward.
In the metal products industry, customer demand shows no signs of slowing down either, so effi ciency is imperative for skilled engineers, welders and manufacturers alike. The great thing here is that when it comes to cutting metal using automated processes and machinery, it is not solely about the fi nished product – it goes much deeper than that. For example, smart technology can be the catalyst for employees to upskill in advanced solutions, and it can ensure factory fl oors produce metal in a much safer way because the human handling of goods is limited. Additionally, organisations with innovation at the heart are more likely to attract top talent, as well as new business opportunities. However, this does not mean that the answer for companies is to head straight now to purchase the savviest technology without understanding what it can really achieve. It is important that when it comes to technology investment,
he manufacturing businesses continue to play a pivotal role in how countries grow, and automation will drive innovation
the right machinery is selected for each enterprise.
That means fi rstly understanding why an automated piece of kit is required – what are the pain-points that employees and customers are currently experiencing, and how can the new automated equipment help. How much swifter can metal be produced as a result, and what are the timescales and costs involved in terms of installation and end product? Once the research has been carried out, it is then vital to take a moment to explore the options. When it comes to focusing on high-volume sheet metal laser cutting that provides precision products without fail, businesses should be looking for automation that cuts a variety of materials – from mild steel to aluminium, brass to copper. For example, the Bystronic 3kW BySprint Fiber and 6kW Bystar Fiber laser cutters integrated with an automated warehouse solution provide this option alongside 24/7 capacity by allowing unmanned running of its machinery. Further advantages include providing workforces with a greater level of fl exibility and effi ciency
alongside a speedy turnaround – as should be expected with high-performing automation.
This kind of automation not only optimises material fl ow but improves in-house machine use, provides reliability – for both employees and customers – and empowers more members of staff to operate fi rst-class machinery without having to spend hours manually loading the sheet material onto the laser beds. This improves machine effi ciencies as well as being considerably safer for all concerned.
Further functionalities In terms of further functionality, the latest Bystronic lasers have a cutting range of 3048mm x 1524mm and these fl at-bed machines are environmentally friendly – as they reduce the amount laser gas consumed and reduce power consumption – as well as off er an increased cutting speed compared to traditional CO2
lasers.
Many factory fl oors will have a huge demand for sheet metal folding, bending and forming facilities, which sees teams transform 2D profi les into a broad variety of items. There is no question that the future of manufacturing and producing metal relies on skilled employees who can operate automated machinery. In turn, these technologically-savvy individuals can both ensure their business remains relevant in a saturated marketplace and prioritise their personal learning and development.
CONTACT: Left and right: Bystronic laser 6kW 36 February 2022 | Automation
Salamander Fabriucations; Bystronic
www.salamanderfabs.com;
www.bystronic.com
automationmagazine.co.uk
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