The secret to becoming a flexible fabricator

A hybrid machine tool that can laser-cut, punch holes, and form shapes in a part, without leaving the machine, provides fabricators with flexibility that is difficult to match with single-purpose machine tools.

When you talk about modern metal fabricating nowadays, most people focus on the cutting prowess associated with the fiber laser. It can cut thin sheet metal at astounding speeds and demonstrates flexibility in being able to move between sheet metal and plate, one job after the other, and deliver quality edges.

Where does that leave the one-time workhorse of the metal fabricating shop—the turret punching machine? It’s still relied upon, especially for those jobs that require a lot of holemaking or specialty forms, such as louvers. The turret punch still has its place in the shop, but it is often overshadowed by modern laser cutting technology.

Imagine, however, if a shop could harness the cutting efficiency of the fiber laser and the flexibility of the turret punch in the same machine tool. Laser/punch combination machine can do just that, providing a new level of productivity and profitability for a shop that has both laser cutting and punching capabilities.

Fabricators interested in learning more about these hybrid machines can register for a webcast from The FABRICATOR, in partnership with Murata Machinery USA. “Fab Shop of the Future: Manufacturing Flexibility and Shorter Lead Times,” presented by Jeff Tyl, the North American sales manager for fabrication, Murata Machinery USA, is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 1 p.m. CT/2 p.m. ET. Tyl, who has more than 15 years of experience in sales and product management and more than 12 years involved in cellular manufacturing, will discuss how the modern laser/punch combination machine can save up to 50% in total production time and 67% of total power consumption when compared to older laser cutting and punching technologies.

Metal fabricators deliver value when they are altering sheet metal stock. They are paid for each cut and bend, but not for handling the material. That’s where this hybrid technology holds so much potential. Metal fabricators can get complete parts, with complicated features like embosses and even tapped holes, right off the punching machine. In some instances, the only material handling required is moving it from the laser/punch combination machine to shipping.

For a fabricating technology that may not be brand new, laser/punch combination machines are still new to many in the industry. The realities of the modern metal fabricating shop require that metal fabricators look at all options as they seek ways to boost profitability in the midst of a hyper-competitive market. Click here to reserve your spot for the webcast.