TPT March 2009

T echnology U pdate

Laser tube cutting system takes processing to a new level

The proprietary Artube CADCAM software is dedicated to the tube fabrication process, ensuring that the transition from design to finished component typically takes less than five minutes. This includes components with open profiles and special tube shapes. Changeovers, which are performed automatically, can be completed in less than two minutes, and once the operator has selected the cutting program the system manages the set-up operations according to the size and type of material. To reduce reliance on individual know- how, a database of ‘ready to use’ cutting parameters is provided as standard, taking account of different tube sizes, shapes, thickness and material to minimise waste and set-up times. Raw tube is measured automatically prior to processing and supported during the entire cutting sequence by numerically controlled universal supports located upstream and downstream of the 2,500W Rofin CO 2 laser cutting head. This ensures optimum part accuracy and consistency, while the diffusion-cooled laser combines high cut quality with low running costs.

BLM Group UK Ltd has launched the new BLM Adige LT 722D Lasertube, described by the company as ‘the future of laser tube processing’ . The LT 722D can process round, square, rectangular and flat-sided oval section tube up to 152mm in diameter, and lengths up to 6.5m or 8.5m. The machine uses offline programming software specifically developed for the machining of tubes. This software creates

new programs quickly and easily, while the Siemens Sinumerik 840D CNC allows the operator to manage all the main functions, including program downloads. The LT 722D has fully automated bar handling throughout the entire sequence of load, measure, feed, cut and unload. Fast set-up and changeover times means short batches can be managed as cost-effectively as longer production runs.

 The 8 th generation BLM Adige LT 722D Lasertube tube processing system

The machine is claimed to be up to 80 per cent more productive than its predecessors – and the more complex the part the greater the productivity increase. It incorporates a number of hardware improvements that contribute to faster processing of tube. However, the greatest change is to the software, which has been configured to make optimum use of the new machine’s processing capabilities.

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M arch 2009

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