Lantek and Kerf collaborate to offer the best profile cutting solution

Dan Taylor, managing director of Kerf Developments, explains: "Our most popular machines are high density plasma and oxy-fuel. We work with Lantek, because of the support it offers and the capabilities of its Lantek Expert software. In particular, it minimises user input, with automatic lead-in and lead-out moves. Its auto nesting is quick and easy to use, and produces excellent material utilisation results." Kerf's oxy-fuel and plasma machines use the Burny 10 control system, which is the market leader and, in addition, the plasma machines use the Kaliburn high density plasma cutting power supply. This uses the company's proprietary technology, which includes special ramping and piercing routines. These routines increase consumable life, produce a high quality cut and reduce operating costs. Furthermore, the machine can achieve 2 degree bevel on the profiled part edges for the lifetime of the Kaliburn consumables. Mr Taylor adds, "We have the ability to remotely interrogate a machine at the customer's site to diagnose any fault or operating problem. Because Lantek's engineers understand the machine control interface, as well as their CADCAM software, we can, where necessary, allow them to remotely access the machine control as well. This ensures that with Lantek, we can accurately pin down any issues on the customer's site and deliver a solution which often avoids the need for a service visit." Kerf keeps an extensive range of spare parts at its Rochdale headquarters. Remote diagnostics ensure that when a service visit is required, the correct spare part can be brought along at the first visit, getting the user up and running again as quickly as possible. Lantek Expert includes dedicated technology for the full range of Kerf's machines, including its waterjet profilers. Mr Taylor says: "The technology in Lantek Expert addresses all the techniques required by the three different processes. For example, the software has a heat avoidance routine, which cuts one area on the oxy-fuel machine, then moves to the opposite corner to continue cutting while the first area cools." Rob Powell, managing director of Lantek Systems, adds: "We have a very good relationship with Kerf Developments. They supply high quality machinery and, together, we offer a system that is optimised for efficient and profitable manufacture. Our engineers understand Kerf's machines and technology, and Kerf's engineers understand our software, giving customers a uniquely seamless and integrated solution."