Beakbane opts for trumpf punch-laser combination

Purchased as part of its ongoing investment programme, the new machine will ensure high accuracy, consistency and reliability of component production. Furthermore, the large format (3,050 by 1,550mm) set-up will provide for improved material utilisation at a time when steel prices are at a premium, thereby enabling efficiency gains through a reduction in waste. "The acquisition of this machine completes a major investment programme during the past four years to improve the company's metal cutting, punching and folding capabilities," said manufacturing manager, Roy Legg. "The investment has been targeted to maintain Beakbane's position as the European leader in the design and manufacture of machinery protection systems." Due to be installed in June 2011, the increase in capacity and efficiency provided by the investment is seen as necessary by Beakbane in order to offer existing and new customers a high quality, accurate and cost effective manufacturing capability. "If you take the strengths of the punch, in terms of accurately forming material, coupled with the speed of punching holes, and you take a part that has sweeping contours and irregular shapes where smooth edges without burrs is important; and you then put those two types of geometry into one part – that's the perfect combination machine component," says Mr Legg.