Salamander fires up new laser

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Salamander Fabrications has installed an automated laser with integrated handling system that will allow it to cut and process sheet metal twice as quickly as on existing machinery.

The 6Kw Bystronic laser and automated warehouse – which should enable the team to switch between profiling one material to the next in under four minutes – had been put on hold following the Coronavirus outbreak.

However, the Slaithwaite firm has now been able to resume activity – with hopes of having the finishing touches applied by the end of July 2020.

The whole system is 25m x 15m x 4.5m in height and can cut a variety of aluminium, steels and yellow metals. It’s expected to increase the company’s production capacity by up to 70% and has 24/7 ‘lights out’ running capability.

Up to three people at Salamander will be trained on how to fully operate the integrated system and mentor others. The purchase was part funded by a £240,000 grant from Leeds City Region Partnership (LEP).

“It’s a big day for everyone at Salamander Fabrications as we welcome such a stunning piece of kit that will further enhance the speed in which we can react to customer requirements,” said managing director, Michael Haskell.

“This kind of automation not only optimises our material flow, it improves our machine use, provides us with a greater level of reliability and upskills our workforce to operate first-class machinery.”

Salamander Fabrications has already integrated collaborative robotic welding into its operations to cater for a number of substantial contracts – including one to supply components for a large rail refurbishment assignment.

Salamander Fabrications has more than 50 years’ experience in the sheet metal industry producing precision products for a range of sectors including rail, automotive, agriculture and retail.

www.salamanderfabs.com

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