Demonstrating the value of data

Digital experts at AMRC Cymru are helping Welsh manufacturers become sustainable, efficient and ready for Industry 4.0 by demonstrating the immediate impact of the data they produce on the shop floor.The Factory+ framework, an open-access digital architecture that simplifies the handling of data across a manufacturing organisation, is now in place at the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) Cymru. Developed by engineers at the AMRC’s Factory 2050 in Sheffield, Factory+ provides a synthesised way for machines to capture, analyse and exploit the data they generate.
For further information www.amrc.co.uk

Hainbuch names Feinauer as new CEO

Dr Achim Feinauer is the new CEO at work-holding specialist Hainbuch. Feinauer knows the machine tool and automotive sectors inside out, having previously held positions at Ex-Cell-O, Stama and, most recently, Emag. Prior to entering industry he studied mechanical engineering and business administration, and holds a doctorate in high-speed milling. At Hainbuch, he will dedicate himself to internationally networked production processes in order to continue the path of profitable growth. He will further drive digitalisation and automation both internally and externally.
For further information www.hainbuch.com

One-piece cartridges for HPRXD plasma systems

Hypertherm Associates, a US-based manufacturer of industrial cutting products and software, has released a single-piece consumable cartridge and cutting torch for Hypertherm HPRXDplasma systems.The new HPR cartridge is for use with current HPRXD systems and, aside from the new torch, requires no changes to the system or system settings. Operators can replace both in seconds without the use of tools.

The cartridge replaces the traditional five-piece consumable stack-up with an aligned part that lasts longer and delivers extended high-definition cut quality. It makes consumable management and assembly much easier, and eliminates errors caused by incorrect handling or installation.

“We’re very excited to bring this new cartridge to market since it offers so many benefits to our HPR customers,” says Kristopher Rich, marketing director for HPRXD products. “It simplifies plasma cutting and training for fabricators, job shops and manufacturers struggling to fill open positions. At the same time, it makes cutting with one of our best-selling systems more efficient by nearly eliminating the high cost of downtime from consumable selection errors and reducing time spent on consumable management and change-outs.”

The HPR cartridge and torch are now available from authorised partners of Hypertherm technology brand products. The cartridge comes in three amperages – 80, 130 and 260 – for mild-steel cutting.

Hypertherm products, including Hypertherm plasma and OMAX waterjet systems, are suitable for companies around the world building ships, aircraft and railway cars; constructing steel buildings; fabricating heavy equipment; erecting wind turbines; and more.
For further information www.hyperthermassociates.com

TruLaser 5000 powerdoubles to 24 kW

Trumpfhas upgraded TruLaser 5000 series by fitting a laser that provides twice the power that was formerly standard. With an output of 24 kW, the new laser – a TruDisk 24001 – can process sheet-metal parts up to three times more quickly. Depending on the material and application, the upgraded TruLaser 5000 can handle up to 80% more sheets of metal per hour.

“Increased laser power means companies can slash processing times while also improving the quality of processed parts,” says product manager Patrick Schüle. “Offering a patented cutting unit, automated functions and dynamic performance, this technology significantly boosts productivity. With double the laser power, the new machine can cut parts much faster. In addition, the more powerful TruLaser 5000 is able to cut mild steel with a sheet thickness of up to 20 mm using nitrogen as the cutting gas. This eliminates the need for reworking that arises when oxygen is used.”

With a 12 kW laser, sheet-metal processors are able to cut sheets of mild steel to a maximum thickness of 15 mmwith nitrogen as the cutting gas. In order to cut thicker parts, it is necessary to add oxygen, which leads to the formation of an oxide layer on the cut edges of the part. Alternatively, companies can use a plasma machine to cut thick parts, although this is much slower and less precise, reports Trumpf. By contrast, the 24 kW machine can handle sheet thicknesses of up to 20 mm using nitrogen. As a result, there is barely any need for reworking and productivity increases. At the same time, the increased laser power improves the quality of cut parts, especially for medium and high sheet thicknesses.
For further information www.trumpf.com

Yawei laser ideal for KelBie Engineering

KelBie Engineering specialises in designing and manufacturing stainless-steel commercial flue systems. The company recently opted to upgrade its plasma cutter to a fibre laser cutting machine. Press and Shear was on hand to help.

High-quality, high-specification flue products must meet the design parameters of various demanding environments.As such, KelBie Engineering needed a precision solution that could deliver high production standards.These standards cover a range of sheet-metal products and services, meaning any new machine needed to be diverse in its ability.
KelBie also offers a short lead-time service to the commercial market, so the machine needed to keep pace.

Having discussed these requirements in depth with experts at Press and Shear, it was decided that the best solution was to upgrade its plasma-cutting machine to a fibre laser cutterfrom Yawei.

The model selected was the Yawei HLB fibre laser 1530, which accommodates sheet sizes up to 1500 x 3000mm and features a 3 kW laser generator. Press and Shear recommended this laser profiling machine as it is cost-effective, with high productivity and low running costs.

Yawei is a brand already known for its quality. Features like the auto-focus cutting head of the HLB ensure a clean and quick cut every time, reports Press and Shear, helping maintain high levels of efficiency and flexibility.

By choosing to invest in the Yawei machine, KelBie also gained access to Press and Shear’s aftersales support. Most importantly, the company got a competitive price on the machine.
Having confidence in Press and Shear meant KelBie Engineering could be sure that the company made the right investment for its business.
For further information www.pressandshear.com