Automated plasma bevelling simplified

Esab has unveiled SmartBevel technology for easier automated plasma programming and bevel cutting with minimal operator intervention. The system includes the data and geometric compensations necessary to cut V, X, Y and K bevels on mild steel from 6 to 50 mm thick. Esab says that unlike competitor systems, SmartBevel integrates all bevel compensations into the CNC to simplify bevel programming and enable operators to quickly fine-tune the program at the machine.

A number of plasma bevelling systems are under-utilised because of programming issues. SmartBevel integrates plasma, CNC, software, height control, bevel head and gantry functions so that users can take full advantage of their plasma-cutting system and maximise productivity.
Many bevelling technologies require programmers to compensate for torch angle, torch height, kerf width and cutting speed in the part program or nest. As a result, operators are prevented from making any adjustments that might be required to produce accurate parts. To make modifications, the operator must go back to the programmer and have the program or nest updated. This can waste time and present an obstacle to producing quality components.
Esab’s SmartBevel improves bevel cutting in two ways. First, the technology delivers more bevel data for more bevel geometries. A high level of automation is offered for the programmer by incorporating best practice bevel cut sequences into Esab’s Columbus III CADCAM programming and nesting software. Second, SmartBevel puts all bevel compensation data into the CNC, not the programming software. Therefore, the part program or nest represents the actual desired part geometry, without bevel compensations. This capability eliminates the need for trial-and-error programming. Instead, operators can quickly make any necessary adjustments at the machine.
For further information www.esab.com

First laser of its type in UK

The first Prima Power machine sold in the UK featuring the company’s own laser source, an advanced Rapido 3D laser cutter, was recently installed, along with
a 2 m Prima Power brake press, at the premises of fabrication services provider PAB Coventry. In addition to manufacturing parts such as panels, grilles, trim, instrumentation and brackets to prestige and supercar manufacturers, the company also supplies the aerospace, defence and rail sectors with components
like pressings, brackets and welded assemblies.

Explaining the reasons behind the company’s latest Prima Power purchase, PAB Coventry CEO Mark Brazier says: “The recent installation of the new Prima Power Rapido fibre 3D laser-cutting machine marks the final piece in our three-year, £3m expansion programme. Due to the growth of our business and continued loyalty to the brand, I believe that we are now the UK’s largest user of Prima Power machines. In addition to the machines’ precision and efficiency, as Prima Power’s product range covers all aspects of sheet metal working, including laser cutting, welding, punching and bending, it helps that the common software and operating systems provide flexibility.”
With X, Y, and Z-axis strokes of 4080, 1530 and 765 mm, the Prima Power Rapido 3D laser cutter is based on a synthetic granite frame designed using topology optimisation methods to ensure smooth movements at high dynamics. User accessibility is provided thanks to the machine’s overhead retractable arm and cantilever structure arrangement. A focusing head with direct drives and transducers delivers high dynamics, zero backlash and reduced maintenance needs.
For further information www.primapower.com

Tube profiling on flat-bed fibre laser

Bystronic has introduced a rotary axis for processing tube on its ByStar Fiber flat-bed laser cutter, which offers up to 10 kW of power. The new equipment enables users to switch between sheet and tube processing in a few simple steps.

Factory-fitted by Bystronic, the rotary axis, together with retractable tailstock, enables tubes from 30 to 315 mm in diameter (and in a variety of lengths) to be profiled. The operator inserts tube either from the outside through a hatch in the ByStar Fiber’s housing, or directly into the machining area through the sliding door along the side. Part unloading is said to be similarly rapid.
Also supplied is a tube-cutting software module, which is an expansion to the proprietary BySoft 7 programming software. The module allows users to design parts for tube processing, input existing CAD files, perform editing routines and generate cutting plans.
To support fast set-up times for processing a variety of tube profiles, Bystronic has integrated an assistant function into its ByVision user interface. The new function guides users through each operating step via the ByStar Fiber’s touch screen.
For manipulating longer tubes, Bystronic offers a rotary-axis box, akin to a bar magazine on a lathe. This detachable accessory is mounted on wheels and enables tubes up to 3 m long to be fed through the hatch in the machine housing and positioned accurately. With an additional extension box, tubes up to 6 m
in length can be processed.
For further information www.bystronic.com

Fibre laser features 8 kW source

LVD has launched its Electra FL 3015 8 kW fibre laser cutting machine. Designed to cut a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous materials as fast as the thermal process allows without dynamic compromise, the Electra 8 kW can maintain 2 G acceleration speed during operations. The Electra FL also features a new cutting head, new ‘smooth lead-in’ feature, advanced drive system and the latest generation of LVD’s Touch-L control.

Among the capabilities of the new cutting head is automated adjustment of focus position and focus diameter (zoom focus). Zoom focus control can improve piercing times, cutting speeds and cut performance in all material types and thicknesses, says LVD. This functionality can also increase throughput and reduce the need for operator intervention. The ability to change the focal point allows Electra to pierce 20 mm material in just 2 seconds.
The ‘smooth lead-in’ feature guarantees a much faster but stable lead-in after piercing thicker material (greater than 6 mm) with nitrogen. According to LVD, this capability results in an average 15% reduction in part-cutting times.
Two levels of automation are available: the FA-L load/unload system or CT-L compact tower. The latter offers loading, unloading and storage of raw materials and finished parts.
For further information www.lvdgroup.com

Hypertherm overhauls Design2Fab software

Hypertherm, a manufacturer of industrial cutting systems and software, has released Design2Fab 6, a major update of its sheet-metal layout software for HVAC duct, mechanical, kitchen, industrial roofing and other specialty fitting layouts.

The new version is the most significant Design2Fab update since the software was acquired in 2004, and features an entirely new interface and tools that include a modelling engine for 3D geometric renderings. Better graphics, fluid movement and real-time updates are just a few of the benefits end users will see. Other improvements include easier dimension entry, an unlimited number of zones, easy arrangement of fittings with drag and drop functionality, ProNest nesting software integration, and more.
Engineered to reduce the time it takes to develop and lay out flat patterns, Design2Fab allows users to create both HPGL and DXF output formats: a plotter can be deployed to print an HPGL layout for manual cutting, or a CNC cutting machine to produce fittings from DXF files. In addition, prior to CNC cutting, users can export DXF files to ProNest, ProNest LT or ProNest LTS nesting software for optimal material utilisation.
Current Design2Fab users with an active software subscription can upgrade to the new version at no additional charge and continue to receive unlimited technical support, as well as other benefits.
For further information http://kb.hyperthermcam.com