THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS

Energy efficiency in press brake operations

In the sheet metalworking and manufacturing sector, where large machines like pressbrakes are used extensively, optimising energy consumption has become a priority. Energy-efficient press-brake operations not only contribute to a greener planet but also lead to cost savings and increased productivity.

Modern press brakes are equipped with advanced drive systems that minimise energy wastage. Servo-electric and hybrid drive systems used in ACCURL pressbrakes (available in the UK from Axe & Status) offer precise control over motion and energy consumption, as they only consume power when needed during the bending process.

Intelligent motion control systems in press brakes also play a crucial role in energy optimisation. These systems can adapt the machine’s speed and force based on the specific bending requirements, resulting in more efficient energy utilisation.

Energy-efficient press brakes such as ACCURL machines feature idle and standby modes that automatically reduce energy consumption when the machine is not actively engaged in bending operations. During periods of inactivity, these modes limit power usage, helping businesses save on electricity costs and reduce their environmental impact.

As a further point of note, regular maintenance of press brakes is essential to ensure optimal energy efficiency. Clean and well-maintained machines experience fewer mechanical losses and operate more efficiently.

The role of operators is also vital in achieving energy efficiency in press-brake operations. Well-trained operators who understand the machine’s features and energy-saving functions can make informed decisions to maximise efficiency during production. Streamlining the bending process can also contribute to energy efficiency. By optimising machine tooling set-ups, reducing unnecessary tool changesand consolidating bending tasks, businesses can minimise downtime and improve overall energy utilisation.
For further information www.axestatus.com

LAS set to enter space sector

Doncaster-based Laser Additive Solutions (LAS), a rapidly expanding subcontract provider of laser processing and additive manufacturing services, is targeting customers in the UK’s burgeoning space sector following its investment in aTruPrint 3000 additive production system from Trumpf. If things go to plan, the machine could be the first of many metal 3D printers at this progressive manufacturing business.

“Upon our enquiry, Trumpf alerted us to the availability of a quick-delivery TruPrint 3000 machine,” says managing director Peter Brown. “Although pre-owned, the machine had very low running hours, almost untouched. A powder-bed system had been in my thoughts for a number of years; this was clearly the opportune moment to make the leap.The space sector is constantly seeking manufacturing solutions for lightweight structures that are not easy to build with other technologies.”
For further information www.trumpf.com

Machining centre choice made pure and simple

Mills CNC has supplied Pure Innovate Manufacturing, a project management and engineering solutions provider, with a new high-performance machining centre.The machine, a DN Solutions DNM 5700 is now in-situat the company’s new and spacious ‘Innovation’ facility in Wallingford, just a few days after relocating its operations there. It is the first machine tool acquired by the company in its four-year history.

The DNM 5700 acquired by Pure Innovate is a three-axis vertical machining centre equipped with FANUC iPlus control and 15” touchscreen iHMI. Further features include an 18.5kW/12,000rpm directly-coupled spindle, 30-position ATC, large worktable and fast rapids. Mills CNC supplied the machine with through-spindle-coolant capability and a Renishaw tool and workpiece probing system to increase machining flexibility and improve process efficiencies.

Pure Innovate is the brainchild of managing director, Carl Joy, who says: “Having our own dedicated machining resource at the Innovation facility improves our flexibility and responsiveness.We’re can produce prototypes [including any iterations] quickly and efficiently – and means we’re not only able to deliver high-quality, fast turnaround machined prototypes, but also the processes developed and used to machine them.”

He continues: “To increase the scope and scale of our Innovation facility in the future, we are actively looking at investing in new technologies, like simultaneous five-axis machines, and developing our in-house capabilities further through processes such as additive manufacturing and composite machining.Nothing is off the table.”

Joy took the decision to invest in a DN Solutions DNM 5700 for a number of reasons.

“Pound for pound, the DNM 5700 is the ideal machine for us,” he states. “The machine is fast, flexible and accurate. It will enable us to machine high-precision prototypes and pre-production parts quickly.”
For further information www.millscnc.co.uk

VO specialist launches £1m giveaway

Voltage optimisation (VO) specialist, Powerdown220, is launching a scheme for companies looking to save on their energy bills. Successful applicants will receive a free VO machine and can expect savings on their energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint from day one.As well as providing a VO, Powerdown220 will complete every aspect of the project from survey to installation, free of charge. The scheme is only available to businesses that consume over 300,000 kWh of electricity annually. The only thing required from applicants is information about their current energy consumption.
For further information www.bit.ly/3YwKX3C

Making way for UK’s largest open-die forge

Demolition has started at Sheffield Forgemasters to facilitate construction of the UK’s largest open-die forging line.Parts of the site north of Brightside Lane are undergoing controlled demolition to create space for a 13,000 tonne forge, which will house a new 12,700 sq m structure adjacent to the Sheffield to Meadowhall train line.Sections of disused forge and foundry buildings that date from the Victorian era, will make way for the new facility, creating one of the most efficient open-die forging operations in Europe and the largest within the UK.

According to the company, the whole project is working to the best environmental standards, so all spoil from the site will be graded and recycled as far as is possible. Estimates suggest that the multi-million pound project will see completion of the foundations by 2025.The new facility will service defence and commercial work in sectors such as civil nuclear power.
For further information www.sheffieldforgemasters.com