KMF invests over £1m in new equipment to increase efficiency  

Precision Sheet Metal firm KMF has invested in two

new laser profiling machines which will increase cutting speeds, reduce operating costs and allow a greater range of materials to be processed.

KMF has ordered two 3030 (L95) New Generation machines. The machines are state-of-the art, fibre lasers from Trumpf and join a full array of high end Trumpf sheet metal processing equipment.

Laser profiling is the first physical stage in the processing of sheet metal-based products and so any gains are felt throughout the manufacturing process. The new lasers are estimated to improve average run times by up to 50 percent and potentially result in 60 percent+ reductions in the average machine running cost.

The £1.2m assets have been ordered to replace two existing older machines. The existing machines comprised of an early technology fibre machine and a traditional Co2 laser, both of which have been operational in a 24/7 capacity since early 2012.

Keith Nicholl, commercial director, says: “Faster machines means that we can continue to offer a competitive solution to our customers at a time when resource costs are rising. As well as being faster the machines are more comprehensive and more accurate which allows us to build on our reputation of producing consistent quality products in high volumes. We’ve had a very positive first half of the year and we’re continuing to grow, so we need to invest in newer, better machinery to accommodate our customers and their ambitions.”

The new lasers also have more capacity to cut through heavier gauge and a larger range of sheet-based materials.

One of the existing lasers is a 3030 (L41) and has a maximum cutting thickness of 20 mm of mild steel, 15 mm of stainless steel and 10 mm of aluminium. Both new lasers add 5 mm more scope on the steels and an additional 10 mm in aluminium. They will also cut through 8 mm copper and brass.

Keith Nicholl concludes: “We have now signed for the equipment and we’re looking forward to the delivery and install dates in the new year.”

KMF Group
Tel: 01782 569060
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.kmf.co.uk