TRUMPF showcases new automated unloading system for laser tube cutting

Introducing the revolutionary “Automated unloading interface with longitudinal belt conveyor” – a cutting-edge solution designed to streamline tube handling processes like never before. This innovative system seamlessly conveys tubes to a dedicated safety enclosure within a handling system, all with precision and efficiency. Automating this crucial aspect of laser tube cutting, frees valuable staff resources, empowering them to focus on higher-value tasks while significantly boosting overall productivity. More than just a convenience, this solution represents the missing link needed to achieve full automation across the entire laser tube-cutting process chain, marking a pivotal advancement in industrial efficiency and performance.

Enabling companies to automate the unloading and sorting process 

TRUMPF showcased a new automated unloading system for its laser tube-cutting machines at the Tube Trade Fair in Düsseldorf. Raphael Heinzelmann, Product Manager from TRUMPF says:   

“Laser tube-cutting machines equipped with the automated unloading interface with longitudinal belt conveyor can automatically convey cut tubes to an automation system, which then sorts the parts or delivers them to the next production step for further processing. This prevents errors and reduces the operator’s workload. This technology is another example of how TRUMPF provides solutions that address the real-world requirements of companies in the metal fabrication industry. Laser tube cutting involves a high operator workload, which can be very challenging for many companies. Our solution helps companies tackle the shortage of skilled workers while also improving capacity utilisation. The result is higher productivity and greater competitiveness.” 

Compared to many other technologies, laser tube-cutting requires significant operator involvement. TruLaser Tube machines are highly productive, which means a production worker needs to be available at regular intervals to remove and sort the cut tubes. With skilled staff in short supply, it can be hard for fabricators to find someone to carry out this task. In addition, the cut tubes tend to be large and unwieldy, so workers are often reluctant to take on this job. TRUMPF’s automated unloading system helps solve this dilemma. The solution is available for TRUMPF’s 5000 and 7000-series TruLaser Tube machines.  

Ideal for medium and high-volume production 

In machines equipped with the new solution, the cut tubes are automatically deposited on a belt conveyor. This transports the parts to the automation system’s safety enclosure. Here, the parts are retrieved by a separate machine known as an integrator, which might be a robot or some kind of handling device. TRUMPF uses integrators from well-known partners such as Starmatik and Transfluid. None of this obstructs or limits the open concept of the laser cutting machine: users are still free to unload parts manually, an option that continues to be particularly advantageous for small batch sizes and intermediate products. TRUMPF’s automated unloading system also features a digital interface that transfers all relevant information about the parts to the integrator. TRUMPF’s Programming Tube software makes this data available to the integrator automatically via the TruLaser Tube’s digital interface. This data makes the next stage simpler, for example by enabling the Starmatik robot to sort cut parts or convey them directly to the next step in the process without having to teach individual positions. This digitalisation solution also saves time and reduces the possibility of errors. TRUMPF’s automated unloading system is a particularly good choice for medium and high-volume manufacturers, as well as for job shops that handle orders of various sizes. Typical applications include furniture, fitness machines and agricultural machinery.

Are you looking to achieve full automation across the entire tube laser-cutting process chain? 

At Headland Technology, we collaborate with top industry brands like TRUMPF, Starmatik, Transfluid, and STOPA to deliver comprehensive sheet metal automation solutions tailored to your needs. Our TRUMPF experts can guide you to full automation of your manufacturing processes for maximum efficiency.