FOCUS ON LASER CUTTING
Automated arc welding
SMF UK Ltd ( Specialised Metal Fabrications ) installed a TRUMPF TruArc Weld 1000 automated welding cell at its Wigston facility near Leicester ( UK ) in 2021 .
“ We bought the TRUMPF TruArc Weld 1000 automated welding cell because it ’ s so difficult to find people who can weld ,” confirmed Steve Morrison , Managing Director , SMF UK . “ We also come across some people who say they can weld , but not well enough to sell . If we ’ re going to put our company name on it , it has to be fit for purpose . I won ’ t let standards slip .”
The TruArc Weld 1000 has two workstations each able to handle 600 x 600 x 600mm components up to 200kg in weight for consistent welding . In single-station mode , it can also handle components of up to 2000mm in length with a maximum weight of 400kg . The choice of configurations makes the system highly flexible , allowing oneor two-station operation according to requirements .
“ On the TruArc Weld 1000 , the way that TRUMPF has partnered with Universal Robots on the automation side and Fronius on the welding side makes the whole system gel ,” added Steve Morrison . “ It ’ s very easy to make fixtures for the machine as it has a good welding table , manufactured by Demmeler . Additional advantages include a self-cleaning exhaust system and anti-glare protection , which is great for health and safety compliance .”
The modular TruLaser Cell 7040 is a very flexible machine for large 3D jobs . The machine ’ s benefits , says TRUMPF , include costeffective production , process reliability and fine component quality .
We help our clients to solve problems , troubleshoot issues and develop cost-effective solutions to meet project requirements
“ Speculative investments have worked out well for us previously and we ’ re convinced the TruLaser Cell 7040 will be the same . Essentially , we are introducing five-axis work into the subcontract market ,” said Steve Morrison .
“ Any companies with requirements in 3D cutting and / or welding can benefit , and we ’ ll happily meet enquiries with a highly competitive quote . Our team specialises in precision small-to-medium batch work , including one-offs . Our new TruLaser Cell 7040 is the ideal solution for needs of this type ,” he continued .
A strong partnership
SMF UK has an ongoing commitment to invest in new machinery and equipment as its customer expectations and technical requirements change . It has at its disposal some of the latest laser cutters , press brakes , robot bending systems and welding cells to support this ethos . It can also offer customers a range of secondary operations , from powder coating to electro plating , providing a full turnkey solution for projects .
“ We have a really good working relationship with TRUMPF that spans over 20 years ,” confirmed Steve Morrison . “ Other TRUMPF machines on-site include a TruBend 7036 Cell Edition Robot press brake cell ; a TruArc Weld 1000 automated welding cell and a TruMark Station laser marking cell , as well as TRUMPF TruLaser flat-bed ( 2D ) laser cutters .”
SMF has far more machines than people , a strategy that is efficient and economical for the company and its customers without , it explained , any compromise in quality . SMF UK ’ s operational ethos is set up to help clients manufacture quality products .
“ What our customers tell us they like best about working with us is the partnership approach we bring to a project ,” added Steve
TruLaser Cell 7040 .
About the TruLaser Cell Series 7040
“ With the TruLaser Cell Series 7040 laser system users have everything they need , regardless of whether you want to process two or threedimensional components or tubes . You can change flexibly between cutting , welding and laser metal deposition . The modular set-up of the machine , as well as the option of individual adjustment and retrofitting , enable you to optimally customise the TruLaser Cell Series 7040 to a modified production environment and to react to changing customer requirements with flexibility ,” sheet metal specialist , TRUMPF , told ISMR .
“ The X-Blast technology provides more robust processes during cutting , especially for complex geometries , and ensures significantly higher nozzle service life . The control panel ( which can be moved over the machine ’ s entire length ) and the MobileControl app offer the greatest possible ergonomic comfort when operating the machine from any position . Technology tables , guaranteed raw beam adjustment and patented BrightLine Weld guarantee perfect results when cutting and welding ,” it concluded .
Morrison . “ We help our clients to solve problems , troubleshoot issues and develop cost-effective solutions to meet project requirements . If you want to work with a business that cares about developing WATCH long-term professional relationships , come to SMF UK ,” he
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