Page 26 - MetalForming January 2020

Fabrication: News & Technology
single-bar loaders for prototypes and small lots, and bundle loaders for maximum unmanned productivity. The loaders can be positioned in front of the machine or behind it, enabling users to adapt the machine to available space.
For unloading, users can choose from standard, short-part and scrap unloaders. Short parts are conveyed out at constant rate on a conveyor table that reportedly boosts productivity with a faster part discard. Longer parts can be programmed to unload to the front or the rear of the machine. By dividing unloading by part type, part collection can proceed without interruption.
Supporting arms and tables on the feeding and unloading line constantly support the bar movement during processing, reducing axial tube deformations and increasing machining accuracy.
Configuring the system with the chain loader on the front side reduces the system footprint by 20 percent and enables loading and unloading operations from the same side. This makes the system even more efficient for small-series production and small quantities, according to company officials.
The LT8.20’s BLMelements integrated software suite unites design, programming, simulation and multi-machine production management in a single source. User-friendly 3D-programming software transforms designs to production in one click.
BLM Group USA: www.blmgroup.com/en/lasertube/lt8.20
Laser System Handles Entire Production Process
MC Machinery Systems’ automation-solutions partner, Mitsubishi Electric, teamed with Astes4 to roll out at FABTECH a fully integrated, multifunctional laser system, capable of controlling the entire production process from loading, cutting, sorting and unloading through to the storage of finished parts.
The system utilizes four Cartesian grippers for loading, unloading and sorting of parts. Each gripper uses vacuum or magnetic tools in a variety of shapes and sizes to produce a more effective sorting speed. The process sorts the parts into kits, and a variety of options allows for different material thicknesses to be kitted on the same pallet. Downstream processes are taken into account to provide seamless integration into the production process.
The system’s software automatically optimizes and manages the production process
through to storage, without the user having to intervene. Remote access and a camera system allow for continuous monitoring and intervention if needed.
MC Machinery Systems: www.mcmachinery.com
Redesigned Weld-Fume Extraction System
RoboVent has redesigned one of its most popular weld-fume extraction sys- tems, the Spire, from the inside-out, according to company officials.
Each Spire unit pro- vides filtration for as many as two robotic- welding cells for effec- tive source-capture fil- tration, or can be converted to an ambi- ent unit for area-wide filtration when a hood-
ed enclosure is not possible.
“We’ve retained
the name of the unit
and the 3 by 3-ft. foot-
print,” explains Rick
Kreczmer, RoboVent
president. “However,
we completely reengi-
neered the Spire for
better pulsing, longer-
lasting filters and easy
maintenance fea-
tures our customers
requested. We made sub-
stantial improvements to make filter changes and dust disposal easy and upgraded our touchscreen controls to a 7-in. screen.”
The new Spire ships standard with a 7-in. full-color HMI touchscreen; variable- speed drive designed to save energy and extend filter life; the compact footprint; moveable control panel; and upgraded dust containment. RoboVent PleatLock filters reportedly provide longer filter life and easier changeouts, and improved filter pulsing minimizes filter-pressure buildup. RoboVent: www.robovent.com
24 MetalForming/January 2020
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