LVD showcased the benefits of process efficiency at BlechExpo 2021 in Stuttgart last month, demonstrating its Phoenix FL-3015 fibre laser cutting machine with new 20 kW power source. The Phoenix FL-3015 can process a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous materials in thicknesses up to 40 mm.

Notably, LVD says the machine cuts up to 2.5 times faster than a 10 kW fibre laser. The company adds that the Phoenix FL-3015 pierces and cuts thick materials at rates faster than most plasma cutting systems, and with straighter kerfs and the ability to cut holes half the thickness of the sheet.
Acceleration and accuracy are further supported by the machine’s rigid welded steel frame construction. An integrated control and drive system ensure high reproduction of programmed contours at fast processing speeds.

The 19” Touch-L control is user-friendly: LVD says that operators of all skill levels can interact easily with the Phoenix. Furthermore, the machine offers a number of options to advance performance, including a 10-station automatic nozzle changer, CADMAN-L programming software and MOVit modular automation, from the compact tower to full tower and warehouse systems (TAS and WAS). The 20 kW fibre laser source is available on Phoenix FL-3015, 4020 and 6020 models.

LVD also used BlechExpo to showcase its newly released CADMAN software v8.7, as well as updates for CADMAN-L (laser cutting) and CADMAN-P (punching). For example, CADMAN v8.7 is able to integrate foreign operations such as tapping, deburring and grinding, allowing users to control, monitor and log an order from raw material to finished part. The latest CADMAN software can also manage the complete sheet metal production process without the need for an ERP system.

For further information
www.lvdgroup.com

Precision sheet metal firm KMF has invested in two new laser profiling machines that will increase cutting speeds, reduce operating costs and allow a greater range of materials to be processed. KMF, based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, has ordered two Trumpf TruLaser 3030 (L95) new-generation machines. The fibre lasers join a full array of high-end Trumpf sheet metal processing equipment on site. Potentially, the new lasers, which are due for installation in the New Year, could improve average run times by up to 50% and result in reductions of over 60% in average running costs.

The £1.2m assets are replacing two existing older machines that comprised of an early-technology fibre model and a traditional CO2 laser, both of which have been operational in a 24/7 capacity since early 2012.

KMF’s commercial director Keith Nicholl says: “Faster machines means that we can continue offering a competitive solution to our customers at a time when resource costs are rising. As well as being faster, the machines are more comprehensive and more accurate, which allows us to build on our reputation for producing consistent quality products in high volumes. We’ve had a very positive first half of the year and we’re continuing to grow, so we need to invest in newer, better machinery to accommodate our customers and their ambitions.”

The new lasers also have more capacity to cut through heavier gauge and a larger range of sheet-based materials.

One of the existing lasers is a TruLaser 3030 (L41), which has a maximum cutting thickness of 20 mm in mild steel, 15 mm in stainless steel and 10 mm in aluminium. Both new lasers add 5 mm more scope on the steels and an additional 10 mm in aluminium. The new machines will also cut through 8 mm copper and brass.

For further information
www.kmf.co.uk