Buying a machine? Come prepared!

Fitting machines open up new possibilities

"Planning to invest in a new profile processing machine? Then first make a list of needs and requirements as well as seek advice from a specialist. After all, an investment of this kind must be thought through," believes Managing Director Bas Ladestein of elumatec Benelux BV. "At elumatec, we are ready to support the customer with expert advice." 

The German manufacturer offers suitable machines for all possible processing of profiles made of aluminum, steel or plastic. The SBZ 118 entry-level model and the SBZ 125/85 - both cabin machines - also open up new possibilities for sun protection companies, elumatec knows.

'Entry-level model with full functionality'

The company's portfolio now includes more than 120 products, covering the entire spectrum of users - from the small design engineer to the industrial profile processor. "Innovation is a driving force, but only because we always want to offer the right machine for each specific application," says Ladestein. "For example, start-ups or smaller manufacturing companies are often looking for a small and compact system with all the necessary functionalities for their applications and at lower entry costs. This is where elumatec responds perfectly with its 3-axis profile machining center SBZ 118 with optional 5-sided machining." 

"This machine has a machining length of 3,200 mm and is equipped with an air-cooled 5 kW milling spindle with a speed of up to 24,000 rpm. Although it has a minimal footprint, it still provides full functionality for milling, drilling, tapping and roughing. Automated CNC machining is performed on up to five sides with an optional right-angle milling head and end mill," explained Ladestein. "The proven technology of the inclined machine bed, the freely accessible spindle, the height-adjustable control console and the mobile 5-way tool changer increase comfort. The new transparent protective cover and operation of the material clamps via a wireless push button ensure safe operation at all times, even for larger machine operators. A service door on the side facilitates setup and maintenance of the machine." 

Closed cab machine

"In addition to the successful SBZ 122/75 model, the SBZ 125/85 is now also available," Ladestein said. This profile machining center is an enclosed cab machine with a machining range of 8245 mm on the X axis, 300 mm on the Y axis and 230 mm on the Z axis. It includes five CNC axes, a water-cooled milling spindle with a speed of up to 20,000 rpm and a 12-position automatic magazine. To prevent damage, all operations, such as milling, drilling and tapping, are performed on a stationary clamped profile. 

Such cab machines are popular because they block chips and reduce noise. There is also no need to install other safety systems, such as fences, around the machine. This keeps the footprint down. A flexibly programmable three-zone laser provides access protection. 

"Thanks to the dynamic pendulum operation, this machine can machine pieces on one side, while the operator inputs new profiles on the other side. Moreover, long workpieces that extend beyond the center of the machine can still be machined," indicates Bas Ladestein. "The new rotatable control console simplifies the operator's task and an innovative technology reduces tool change times, resulting in faster setup and increased flexibility. Adjustment of clamps for fixturing profiles has also been simplified and optimized. Sliding material clamps on the Y axis improve ergonomics when inserting profiles. The clamp automatically switches between loading and machining position. The machine can also be changed to other profile widths and shapes quickly and without tools. Optionally, a tension conveyor can be integrated. Coarse chips and profile parts thus immediately fall into a bin, keeping the interior of the machine clean."