BROAD VARIETY, PERFECT FOR NEW FLAT BED |
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Although the prime motive behind the WEC Group’s investment in the latest laser technology was to meet growing demand for fast turnaround profiling, the shear variety of its work led it to a L4050 6kW flat bed laser machine from TRUMPF, complete with automated handling. |
| Sited on 8-acres in the North West of England, the WEC Group comprises four divisions, each specialising in different aspects of engineering fabrication. WEC is the UK’s largest manufacturer of motorway camera structures; Laser Engineering UK specialises in laser profiling; Welding Engineering designs and manufactures small precision components through to large fabrications; M-Tec is a new company specialising in bespoke metal fabrication and stainless steel structures. The new TRUMPF L4050 6kW machine serves all divisions but requirements vary widely. “On a daily basis it produces profiles in material from 0.5mm up to 25mm dependent on the client and product required,” explained WEC’s Tom Elliott. Several features on this machine ensure optimum part quality across WEC’s production needs. SprintLas® increases processing speed by optimising machining sequences in thin sheet whilst Pierce Control System (PCS) continuously monitors and adjusts pierce parameters in real-time to improve quality and reduce time. Components also range considerably in size and shape. Typically the TRUMPF L4050 is used to profile box sections for CCTV structures. Not so typical however, is a public art structure recently commissioned. This project required 60 special curved columns made from duplex stainless steel. These columns comprise eleven flat laser sections laser cut then rolled and stitch-welded together. “The need for accurate cutting and edge quality were paramount in this particular project and TRUMPF’s L4050 was outstanding in its delivery,” Tom Elliott added. “Investment in the L4050 6kW machine has brought us to the forefront of laser cutting technology,” he concluded. “It ensures our competitive edge.” |
| © 2008 TRUMPF, 2008-10-09 | |