FOCUS ON FABRICATION
Below , right and opposite : The Glasgow Science Centre was refurbished with 0.7mm stainless steel shingles , which were laser profiled then pressed on Cincinnati machinery .
At this same time , fuelled by innovations such as rainscreen cladding along with widespread requirements for aluminium , stainless steel and other exotic metals , the building industry was gaining momentum . This presented new opportunities for manufacturers who were responsive and prepared to support this rapidly growing industry .
Managing director , Graham Gilmour , explained that as the company ’ s products and capabilities have evolved , things have become more advanced in terms of how jobs are approached .
“ We began looking at the 3D modelling and design work that was needed . Fabrication skill sets were changing and there were fewer sheet-metal workers available . This was a necessary evolution , and we knew that we had to move away from programming parts at the machine level . We had to create a digital environment to model parts on the computer that we could then transition into the machinery . If we were going to continue to grow , modernisation in terms of automation and machinery would be key ,” he explained .
The evolving shop floor
Like most successful fabricators , Gilmours knew that embracing new methods and technology would be essential to maintain and grow its market share . Although it had successfully relied on CNC punching to this point , it was recognized that laser cutting was the better option for many applications .
John Gilmour explained that the move to laser-cutting technology was driven by meeting the rising expectations of current and future customers .
“ It all comes down to what the machine can do most effectively . Our motivation to move to a laser was orientated around achieving the cut shapes and quality needed to support the designs of our customers ,” said
Gilmour . “ There is very little cost benefit in our operation between a laser or punch press . But it has everything to do with how we ’ re able to work with our customers and provide exactly what they want as well as the quality they ’ ve come to expect .”
While Gilmours recognized the advantages of laser technology , it wanted to be sure that the process and machine would allow it to remain responsive to the specific and unique requirements of each job . The company therefore turned to Cincinnati ( CI ), the partner on which it had come to rely over the years for much of the equipment on its shop floor .
Cutting and forming
The Glasgow Science Centre was refurbished with 0.7mm stainless steel shingles , which were laser profiled then pressed on Cincinnati machinery .
A Cincinnati 707 laser cutting system was brought in and put to work for the refurbishment of the Glasgow Science Centre . Gilmours cut 0.7mm stainless steel shingles which were then formed on Cincinnati
Fleet of CI press brakes on the factory floor at Gilmours in Glasgow .
Gen 6 control upgrade
Cincinnati has improved the user experience with its new Gen 6 control upgrade . The control upgrade applies to all Cincinnati ( CI ) press brakes and fibre laser PC controls .
“ Users can enjoy six major upgrades to the machine control . These include a Windows 10 Operating System ; a 64-bit operating system ; a long-life motherboard with i3 processor and a high-definition 22 ” display . They can add BendSim or BendSim Viewer for consistency online and offline . Basically , they get the same usability but with more security . With the highlight upgrade features , they can position their business advantageously over their competitors ,” commented Cincinnati .
ISMR October 2023 | ismr . net | 99