The UK’s first Trumpf TruMatic 1000 fibre laser-punch combination machine (www.uk.trumpf.com) is helping Luton-based Islebest Ltd to achieve significant reductions in cycle times compared to using stand-alone laser and punching machines.

Over the last 26 years, the latter has built a reputation as a leading supplier of bespoke metalwork solutions — from straightforward laser-cut components through to folded, welded and assembled parts — to sectors that include ventilation, lighting, drainage, shop-fitting, office furniture and agriculture.

Despite achieving year-on-year growth of about 5%, Islebest recently decided to upgrade the laser cutting and punching capability of its 32,000ft² facility.

Managing director Paul Burchmore said: “We needed to upgrade our oldest Trumpf laser machine after 20 years of service.

“Although it was still cutting well, we needed more output to keep up with orders. As we were getting tight on floor space, and our two punching machines were not being used as much as before, we decided to sell them — plus our oldest laser machine — and install the TruMatic 1000 fibre machine.

“At first, we just looked at a new 2-D laser machine, but that didn’t bring anything extra to our capacity. The TruMatic fibre offers so much more, with its marking, folding and tapping capabilities.

Furthermore, it is a lot quicker on thinner materials and uses far less electricity.

“We can now run parts quicker and to a better standard of finish and specification. I estimate that we are saving 35% on cycle times, as well as eliminating many secondary operations.

“Just the fact that the machine will laser-cut intricate shapes and punch lots of holes — as in the case of our perforated shelving — is such an advantage, time-wise.

“In addition, we are now using TruTops Boost for programming, which is a very powerful tool.”