Two New Tube-Forming and -Cutting Solutions

Equipped with a punch table that works horizontally, the E-Shape tube end former from BLM Group USA Corp. (Novi, MI) eliminates interference from overhead structures. Set up for 10 processing stations, the all-electric CNC machine can be equipped with ram stations, rotary, and cutting tools for a configuration that best meets the user’s needs.

Offering 10 tons of force, the E-Shape yields complex shapes and end-forming in thick-walled materials or stainless steel. It performs tapering, flaring, closing, facing, and cutting to produce repeatable end-forms.

Single-punch advancement and variable-length strokes optimize cycle times without trade-offs. Fitting an orbital cutting device on the machine eliminates the need for a secondary cut-off operation that would require special fixturing to position a bent part for forming. The E-Shape also has an automatic, consecutive head-to-tail operation to process both ends of the tube.

The machine’s interface is easy to learn and use, particularly when programming job sequences. Select the desired punch and the program defines the most appropriate default settings based on the tool.

This all-electric machine offers quiet and clean operation with major energy savings, as well as maximum repeatability and reliability, easy setup, and low maintenance.

The LT8.20 allows users to choose their preferred laser source, loader/unloader style, and positioning of peripheral equipment to maximize floor space. The lasertube cutting system cuts diameters up to 9.5 in and bar weighing up to 27 lb/ft.

Featuring a 3D tilt cutting head, the LT8.20 performs high-precision angular cuts in round, square, triangular, l-beam, and other special shapes. With a 45-degree tilting axis, it can handle complex cutting patterns, reach hard-to-access locations, and is well-suited for weld prep cuts in thick-walled tubes.

The system is available with a 3.5 kW carbon dioxide laser source for cutting mild steel, stainless, and some aluminum alloys; or with a 3 kW or 4 kW fiber laser that cuts highly reflective materials such as copper, brass, and galvanized steels.

Users have extreme flexibility in loading and unloading systems. The machine accommodates step-by-step loaders for constantly changing bar shapes, single-bar loaders for prototypes and small lots, and bundle loaders for unmanned productivity. Loaders can be positioned in front of or behind the machine.

For unloading, users can choose from standard, short part, and scrap unloaders. Short parts are conveyed out at constant rate on a conveyor table that boosts productivity with a faster part discard. Longer parts can be programmed to unload to the front or rear of the machine. By dividing unloading by part type, part collection can proceed without interruption.

Arms and tables on the feeding and unloading line constantly support bar movement during processing, reducing axial tube deformations and increasing machining accuracy.

Configuring the system with the chain loader on the front side reduces system footprint by 20% and enables loading and unloading operations from the same side. This makes the system even more efficient for small series production and small quantities.

BLM Group’s Active technologies automatically adjusts parameters such as piercing speed to ensure a clean cut regardless of material. Integrated BLMelements software suite unites design, programming, simulation, and multimachine production management in a single source. User-friendly 3D programming software transforms designs to production in one click users can produce parts right, right from the first part.

BLM Group USA Corp., 46850 Cartier Drive, Novi, MI 48377, 248-560-0080, [email protected], www.blmgroup.com/en/home.