New automated punching and laser cutting systems will speed delivery times for customers of sheet metal manufacturer Allsops.
The two machines are a TruPunch CNC 3000 punch press with descending die and Industry 4.0 automation for loading and unloading and a TruLaser 1030 6kW laser cutter. The latter machine is equipped with an automated load/unload system and a material buffer tower for unattended shift working.
Allsops also invested in TruTops Boost software for both machines which takes parts from geometry to an NC program with a single push of a button. It also improves material utilisation with a shared order pool and a ‘Lean Nest’ nesting processor.
While the TruLaser 1030 provides the company with fast and efficient 2D laser cutting, the TruPunch 3000 allows Allsops to support its punching requirements with on-machine forming, tapping, countersinking and bending.
Based at Honley near Huddersfield, Allsops employs around 150 people to help generate an annual turnover in excess of £10m. Designing and creating products for some of the best-known manufacturers in the world means the company relies on the latest production technologies to underpin its added-value offer.
“We’re a sheet metal company with a difference,” states Managing Director Robert Machon. “Throughout the design and manufacturing process we work closely with clients from industries as diverse as defence, travel, retail, energy, telecommunications and general manufacturing - bringing their sheet metal ideas to life.”
He continues: “Our customers choose us based on several factors: our capacity to deliver every stage of the sheet metal production process, rapid turnaround times, highly competitive pricing, dedication to quality and investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies at our 84,000 ft² plant,” says Mr Machon.
“With our new Trumpf machines we’re seeing a number of positive differences compared with our previous technology,” says Mr Machon. “We immediately noticed that the machines are faster, giving us more output. In parallel with far better service provision, we feel vindicated in our decision to engage with Trumpf, which we recognise as a trusted industry name.”
As a USP, Allsops always puts forward its ability to create a valued-engineered version of the client’s product to help save money.
“Our design and new-product creativity skills are proven and established – and now we have the manufacturing technology to match. Faster times are the main advantage passed to customers. In addition, with both Trumpf machines featuring automation, we can run a lights-out facility in support of tight customer deadlines.”
Aided by automatic load and unload facilities, Allsops’ new Trumpf TruPunch 3000 has a maximum working range of 3070 x 1525 mm and can easily accommodate the standard sheet size of 3000 x 1500 mm.
“We’re capable of punching sheet up to 3 mm thick with a press force of 180 kN and can use between 24 and 200 tools],” says Mr Machon. “The result? We can produce precision components for customers, fast.”
Using its automated Trumpf TruLaser 1030, Allsops processes materials that include brass, copper, Zintec, galvanised steel, aluminium, mild steel and stainless steel. The machine enables the company to cut mild steel up to 25 mm thick, stainless steel up to 20 mm and aluminium up to 15 mm.
Mr Machon concluded: “Moving forward, we have big growth plans as we look to enter new markets that are ever-changing. With our new Trumpf machines we are ready for the future.”