To create tubular assemblies where tube ends intersect (such as door or window frames) requires accurate part positioning, fixturing, and welding. It becomes even more difficult if the tube shapes are complex or there are lots of variations of lengths or sizes. It can involve producing and managing a large number of different parts.
The solution
Using the laser Cut-and-bend technique is one of the most efficient ways to make light tubular frames and structures. It can be used to combine multiple components that require special fixtures and careful butt-joints into a single piece that can be quickly and accurately bent and welded. This technique reduces part count, eliminates fixture and significantly reduces manufacturing costs. These special joints are easily created with our machines and with Artube, the BLM GROUP CAD/CAM.
The reduction in the number of pieces to be produced eliminates in-process inventory, simplifies final assembly and eliminate the possibility of assembly errors.
Laser cutting takes into account material thickness, eliminates the need for most fixturing needed for welding and ensures faster production.
An example is a door frame which traditionally has been made from four separate parts. Now it can be easily made as a single piece folded at three points using the cut-bending function (see photo).