Schwarze-Robitec at Fabtech:
Combined Tube Bending Expertise
For the automotive sector, high-volume production is crucial: each step
in the manufacturing process is tailored towards speed and an efficient
use of material resources. And it is with these requirements in mind
that Schwarze-Robitec has fine-tuned and continuously developed
tube bending machines for this sector.
The German manufacturer recently showcased
its technology at the US metalworking trade
fair Fabtech in the form of its fully equipped,
fully electric multi-radius tube bending
machine, CNC 80 E TB MR.
The CNC 80 E TB MR from Schwarze-Robitec’s High
Performance series is capable of bending tubes with
diameters of up to approx. 3 inches (80mm) and can
also cut them in the same process step thanks to an
integrated fully electric cutting unit. At Fabtech, the
German machine manufacturer had presented the
fully electric version of this feature to a US audience
for the first time. By combining bending and cutting
processes, the machine enhances efficiency and
saves resources during processing, leading to shorter
turnover times and up to a 90 percent reduction
in material waste. Despite featuring a multi-stack
bending tool, the machine is able to cut tubes directly
thanks to its extended vertical transport carriage.
A vertically adjustable pressure die moves to the
individual levels in sync with the tube. This means
that the contact pressure can be optimally gauged,
while tool costs and tool changing times are reduced.
Furthermore, additional features of the machine
help to ensure an even faster production process. For
example, for each bending sequence the intelligent
NxG control system assesses the interaction between
all axes, operates them simultaneously and prepares
the next sequences. This reduces production time
by 20 to 40 percent depending on the component
and the desired tube geometry. In addition, faster
refitting times are ensured thanks to the Quick-
Tool-Unlock system in combination with a rapid
clamping system for the bend former. The tension
bars can thus be opened and closed with ease for tool
changing, whilst no bolts are required to fasten the
bend former to the turntable. This helps to increase
repeatability and process security.
Schwarze-Robitec has perfected this machine
through numerous refinements, such as a freely
stored bend former. Fabtech trade fair visitors in
Chicago were able to witness a highly efficient tube
bending process up close.
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www.schwarze-robitec.com
TUBE NEWS December 2019 9