Rosti benefits from supply chain review

Rosti Automotive, a tier one supplier to the automotive industry, was experiencing pressure on its existing supply chain following a large contract win.

Consequently, the company enlisted Optimas Solutions, a distributor and service provider of fasteners and C-class components, to simplify and manage the supply chain at its facilities in Stamford Bridge and Pickering. The initial proposal forwarded by Optimas provided one point of contact for all of Rosti Automotive’s component concerns, while also delivering the parts required. By simplifying the supply chain and creating a centralised point of contact, efficiency was increased from both a component specification
and logistics standpoint.
For further information www.optimas.com

Lasers support digital manufacturing

The latest generation of TruDisk lasers from Trumpf offers built-in intelligence to perform condition monitoring, predictive maintenance and trend analysis, all of which support the implementation of lasers in digital and connected manufacturing environments.

At the hub of the TruDisk beam source is the built-in control system known as CPX. This is the laser’s brain, where all of the condition data and process parameters are collected. During processing, sensors measure multiple parameters, including the actual laser output at microsecond intervals, all internal and external signal characteristics, the utilisation rate of the beam source, and the condition of additional components.
TruDisk lasers also incorporate a new feature that enhances the quality of data obtained from the readings. Known as ‘precision time protocol’, the feature synchronises the sensors and provides them with an identical time stamp.
The new lasers can be combined with Trumpf’s condition-based services (modular components of TruConnect, the company’s technology for connected manufacturing), which increase the availability and productivity of connected systems while identifying potential cost savings. With the customer’s prior approval, the services can be used to analyse data parameters, carry out algorithm-based trend analysis and take targeted measures to determine the risk of potential laser failure in advance.
Another improvement can be found in the new Trumpf laser diodes, which are energy efficient to help minimise running costs. Furthermore, Trumpf has equipped the latest TruDisk lasers with a pulse function that makes it possible to ramp the current of the pump diodes down to 0 A.
The new generation of TruDisk laser is available for laser output of between 3 and 5 kW, with fibre core diameters between 100 and 600 µm.
For further information www.trumpf.com

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