VGPNext is the new CADCAM programming software for BLM Group tube-bending and wire-bending machines that tackles the latest technological challenges. The software features a completely revamped graphical user interface, with a wealth of features just a click away, designed to make the operator’s job easier and machine programming more practical and simpler. VGPNext improves the synergy between machine and software by simplifying core functions for more user-friendly programming.

With VGPNext, users can identify the part program right away, simulate the job and start production in just a few clicks. It is possible to choose a program from the library using an archive containing images and technical data. The library collects all the programs on the server in one place, providing the convenience of preview images and numerous search filters to make this step even easier. Customised tags are assignable to the various part programs and users can filter searches by tag, section, material, date, machine and much more.

The Bimport module can call up a tube or multi-tube assembly in STEP or IGES formats in VGPNext to obtain theoretical co-ordinatesautomatically. This saves a lot of time and allows less experienced operators to become familiar with the program.

The entire programming flow is more user-friendly with the help of a ribbon bar that assists the operator by indicating missing steps, incorrectly entered data, default data and user-modified data. In this way, VGPNext considers all possible variables – including theoretical co-ordinates, springback, material elongation, bending feasibility and choice of tools – and indicates how to intervene. The operator can switch from one step to the next without losing valuable data.
For further information www.blmgroup.com

SafanDarleyis releasing its fully in-house developed software platform ASC-Control (Automated Solution Cell). This provides SafanDarley with a software platform that enables all further developments with and around the electric E-Brakes and the hydraulic H-Brakes. Together with AutoPOL and RoboBend (offline software), ASC-control enables SafanDarleyto offer a total package for all automated solutions. As a result, customers are no longer dependent on third parties and have only one point of contact for the entire package.

In developing the new software platform, high priority was given to ease of use, negating the need for an extensive operator training programme. After sending a job to the ASC-Control, the operator can easily operate the machine and execute the job. This permits the operator to work efficiently and increase the productivity of the automated cell.

How this functionswas shown at the recent SafanDarley E-volution days 2023 using an E-Brake 35T Premium Mini Cell with palletiser and AGV. This cell isfor the fully automated production of small complex products. It also allows successive bending of different products without intermediate programming. The cell is modularly built and is configurable entirely in line with the customer’s wishes, thus achieving optimum efficiency and higher productivity.

“Now that ASC-Control is available, it provides a huge step forward in terms of ease of use, efficiency and productivity,” says CEO Gert Dekker. “Furthermore, it lays a nice foundation for SafanDarley to develop on.”

In fact, only the first phase of ASC-Control is now complete, the main outcome being that a customer can now run its robotic press-brake cell independently.
For further information www.safandarley.com

The Amada HRB series stand-alone press brake combines a new frame design with the reliable and recognised features of the HFE3i series. To increase productivityfurther, these bending machines feature the latest AMNC 3i multi-touch screen interface with ‘LITE’ mode. Thanks to the new automatic crowning device, Amada says it becomes possible to produce high-quality parts with increased accuracy, while maintaining low energy costs and process stability. In terms of capacity, the range extends from 50 to 220 tonnes, and 2 to 4 m.

Amada’s HRB has a new frame designed for optimal flexibility; the upper beam nowoffers an opening distance of 520mm and a stroke of 250mm. This allows for the processing of more complex and complicated bends.

The processing precision of the HRB enables the production of very high quality batches thanks to the new automatic crowning device, at low energy costs and with process stability. Thanks to the management of the hydraulic system with a frequency converter, power consumption reduces by at least 20% (compared with conventional press brakes that do not feature an inverter), providing environmental benefits. The new auto-crowning produces bending tolerance of ±20′ at any point along the beam.

HRB series press bakes feature the new LITE mode interface that simplifies all operations, making the usage of the machine fast and easy, while the AMNC3i 18.5 inch, smartphone-type multi-touch panel provides easy viewing and quick data input.
For further information www.amada.eu

For 35 years, Promal has been offering innovative and high-quality furnishing solutions for office and cultural institutions, including bookshops, libraries, universities, museums, schools and archives.Differentiating itself from competitors, Promal takes pride in managing the entire production process, from project ideas to cutting, bending and painting, at itsPianezza factory.

Notably, the introduction of a RAS bending centre, specifically the RAS 79.26-2 Multibend-Center, marked a turning point for Promal. This automated folding machine unleashed unparalleled potential, enabling Promal to penetrate new markets and expand its product offerings. RAS machines are available in the UK from Press & Shear.

The RAS servo-electric Multibend-Center empowers Promal to achieve positive and negative bends with precision, without damaging the material surface. Its standard tooling ensures maximum design flexibility, while capabilities extend to pentagons, hexagons, conical parts, internal bends, radii and more.

Such was the success of the machine that Promal has since invested in a second RAS Multibend-Center, equipped with intelligent robots. One robot handles loading the blanks, while the other handles unloading and palletising the bent parts. This evolutionary step allows Promal to balance capacity between flat part production and bending efficiency, ensuring optimal utilisation of both bending centres.

Promal strategically utilises its second RAS bending centre for larger batch production, harnessing its speed and productivity characteristics. The original 2.5m working area bending centre now primarily focuses on smaller series that demand versatility and flexibility. Thanks to the RAS machines, Promal fulfils various requirements, including rapid prototyping for new furniture designs.
For further information www.pressandshear.com

Taillefer, located in northern France, specialises in the production of extra-large storage containers such as silos, tanksand pressure vessels, as well as steel structures for concrete plants. Four and a half years ago, Mrand Mrs Condal took over the company, since whenthe workforce has doubled to more than 80. However, the new owners invested not only in additional personnel, but also in advanced machinery for which they turned to Haco.

Mrand Mrs Condalbought two new bending machines and a shear, as well as a second-hand press brake, second-hand shears and a brand new Euromaster-S press brake from Haco. The Euromaster-S features many advanced and high-tech features, such as an angle measuring system, sheet tracking system, automatic Wila tools and a six-axis back gauge.

“Since investing in our Haco folding machinewe’ve been very satisfied,” says Mrs Condal.“We can use the machine for long periodswith consistent quality.”

Production director Kristof Lebouc adds: “The Euromaster is 4 m wide, has a capacity of 320 tonne and features a digital control panel for programming. The machine is very user-friendly and accessible to all.”

The six-axis back gauge allows operators to set axes individually. This permits the company to make parts that are not necessarily rectangular, and facilitates working at an angle. In addition, the press brake features an angle measurement system, which allows Tailleferto produce the pieces directly to the requested angular tolerance.

“With the Fastbend 3D MT, we can program directly on the machine or in the office,” says Lebouc.“In the latter case, the program is sent directly to the machine and the operator only has to import the program.”
For further information www.kingsland.com