Automotive parts manufacturers need specialised equipment for trimming formed sheet metal components. Over the last 10 years, Prima Power (
www.primapower.com) has been steadily increasing the performance of its 3-D laser machines for automotive applications.
The Laser Next represents a step change in this development cycle, with the throughput of a typical automotive B-pillar increased by 25%. This means that four Laser Next machines can produce the same as five of the previous model.
The Laser Next offers high levels of dynamic performance, with 208m/min trajectory speed and 2.1g acceleration. Advances in machine design include direct-drive motors and transducers for the main axes and focusing head, plus a synthetic-granite machine structure.
Featuring a significantly smaller footprint than previous models, the machine has been designed to suit both stand-alone and multi–machine installations (four Laser Next machines occupy the same area as three of the previous model). In addition, there is no need for special machine foundations.
Laser Next has a working volume of 3,050 x 1,530 x 612mm and is equipped with a 3kW or 4kW fibre laser. Furthermore, the high-precision turntable features a servo motor and absolute encoder for high levels of reliability.