SmartBevel technology — for easier automated plasma programming and bevel cutting with minimal operator intervention — has been unveiled by Upshire-based Esab Group (UK) Ltd (
www.esab.co.uk).
This includes the data and geometric compensations necessary to cut V, X, Y and K bevels on mild steel from 6 to 50mm thick.
Esab says that, unlike competitor systems, SmartBevel integrates all bevel compensations into the CNC to simplify bevel programming and enable operators to quickly fine-tune the program at the machine.
The company says that many plasma bevelling systems are under-used because of programming issues; SmartBevel integrates plasma, CNC, software, height control, bevel head and gantry functions, so that users can take full advantage of their plasma-cutting system and maximise productivity.
It also says that most bevelling technologies require programmers to compensate for torch angle, torch height, kerf width and cutting speed in the part program or nest.
As a result, operators are prevented from making any adjustments that might be required to produce accurate parts; they must go back to the programmer and have the program or nest updated. This presents an obstacle to producing high-quality components.
SmartBevel improves bevel cutting in two ways. First, the technology delivers more bevel data for more bevel geometries; a high level of automation is offered to the programmer by incorporating best-practice bevel-cut sequences into Esab’s Columbus III CAD/CAM programming and nesting software.
Second, SmartBevel puts all bevel compensation data into the CNC, not the programming software, so the part program or nest represents the actual desired part geometry, without bevel compensations.
This eliminates the need for trial-and-error programming. Instead, operators can quickly make any necessary adjustments at the machine.
Esab’s SmartBevel works in conjunction with its plasma bevel-cutting systems equipped with a Vision CNC (to maximise bevel-cutting productivity, the company recommends using SmartBevel with its new DMX automated plasma beveller).