Staffordshire-based KMF, a precision sheet metal specialist, has invested £1.2 million in two new Trumpf laser fibre lasers which will increase cutting speeds, reduce operating costs and allow a greater range of materials to be processed.

The company has ordered two ‘state of the art’ Trumpf 3030 (L95) fibre lasers from Luton-based Trumpf Ltd, and they will join the ranks of a variety of high-end Trumpf sheet metal processing equipment at KMF.

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, which will replace two existing machines, will improve average run times by up to 50% and bring the average machine running cost down by 67%. The machines to be replaced consist of an early fibre machine and a traditional laser which had both been worked very hard in the 24/7 sub-contract facility.

Keith Nicholl, KMF commercial director, said: “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 have had a very positive first half of the year and as we continue to grow, we need to invest in the latest machinery to accommodate our customers and their ambitions.”

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

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

Mr Nicholl concluded: “We have now signed for the equipment and we are looking forward to the delivery and installation early next year.”