SMF UK, a leading specialist in precision sheet metal, laser cutting and fabrication, is further strengthening its impressive portfolio of high-end machine tools by investing in a new Trumpf TruLaser Cell 7040. Able to perform both 3-D laser cutting and 3-D welding, the machine is now in situ at the company’s ‘state of the art’ 30,000ft² facility in Leicester. It has been described as the perfect solution for any sub-contractor that requires high-precision five-axis cutting and/or welding.

Offering decades of experience in sheet metal fabrication, SMF UK’s specialist engineers have a particular expertise in designing solutions for a wide range of industries, including architecture, automotive, electrical and medical. However, this highly progressive company loves a challenge and prides itself on transparent pricing, on-time deliveries and partnership working. Whether a customer has detailed instructions, drawings and specifications — or simply a concept that needs fabricating — SMF UK says it is here to help.

Despite plenty of success and strong growth since the company’s formation in 1990, SMF UK appreciates the need to evolve in-line with industry demands. Steve Morrison, managing director at SMF UK, explained: “At one point in time we did a lot of straightforward laser cutting and folding, but it did not provide much market differentiation and, with the emergence of competitors in low-cost economies, we felt the need to diversify into making actual products for customers. By way of example, today we make chassis that form part of access lifting platforms fitted to the back of pick-up trucks.”

While family-run SMF UK has all the usual sheet metal cutting, forming and fabrication capabilities on-site, it is the company’s more diverse investments that set the company apart from others. Adding high-end machines like a CNC panel bender and an automated Trumpf tube laser has led to a raft of new contracts, prompting the company to think about how it could enhance its machining capabilities further.

A truly flexible machine
The modular TruLaser Cell 7040 is a truly flexible machine which is particularly ideal for large 3-D jobs and unlocks benefits such as cost-effective production, excellent process reliability and the finest component quality. Mr Morrison added: “Speculative investments have worked out well for us previously and we are convinced the TruLaser Cell 7040 will be the same; essentially we are introducing five-axis work into the sub-contract market. Any companies with requirements in 3-D cutting and/or welding can benefit, and we will happily meet enquiries with a highly competitive quote. Our team here at SMF UK specialises in high-precision small-to-medium batch work, including one-offs.”

The company has an ongoing commitment to invest in new machinery and equipment as its customer expectations and technical requirements change. It is proud to have some of the latest laser cutters, press brakes, robot bending systems and welding cells at its disposal to support this ethos.

Mr Morrison continued: “We have a really good working relationship with Trumpf that spans over 20 years. Other Trumpf machines on-site include a TruBend 7036 Cell Edition Robot press brake cell, a TruArc Weld 1000 automated welding cell and a TruMark Station laser marking cell, as well as Trumpf TruLaser flat-bed (2-D) laser cutters.”

SMF has far more machines than people, a strategy that is both efficient and economical for the company and its customers, without any compromise in quality. Mr Morrison concluded: “What our customers tell us they like best about working with SMF UK is the partnership approach we bring to a project. We help our customers solve problems, troubleshoot issues and develop cost-effective solutions.”