New profile machining center with cab

'Saving time, space and costs'

A lot of manufacturers of awning systems now also offer patio covers. This requires more complex machining on the shop floor, so those companies are increasingly investing in multi-axis machines.

So observes managing director Bas Ladestein of machine builder elumatec Benelux BV. "As a leading manufacturer of profile processing machines, elumatec offers a suitable solution for all applications," he says. "With the SBZ 125/85, we introduce a closed cab system with a wide working range and five CNC axes, which can replace two small machines thanks to its dynamic shuttle operation. The flexibly programmable laser for monitoring the safety zone, the technology for faster tool changes and the rotary control console are additional elements, with which this innovative machine makes a difference." 

Innovations that no one needs do not offer progress. This is why the R&D department at elumatec always listens carefully to customer feedback when developing and optimizing machines. These can be industrial profile machinists, but also small constructors. "This makes the processing of profiles in aluminum, plastic and thin-walled steel even more profitable and rational, because users save time, space and costs," says Ladestein. 

Closed cabin model

The SBZ 125/85 profile machining center - a successor to the successful SBZ 122/75 model - is one of the latest examples of the good interaction between elumatec and its customers, the director believes. "This enclosed cab machine has a machining range of 8245 mm on the X axis, 300 mm on the Y axis and 230 mm on the Z axis. This system includes five CNC axes, a water-cooled 7 kW 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. These types of machines equipped with a cab are popular because they block chips and reduce noise. The cab also eliminates the need to install other safety systems, such as fences around the machine. This keeps the footprint down. A flexibly programmable laser with three-zone layout provides access protection." 

Working quickly, efficiently and accurately

The team at elumatec also paid great attention to optimizing efficiency, ergonomics and speed. The dynamic pendulum operation allows this machine to machine pieces on one side while the operator enters new profiles on the other. This significantly increases the machining speed. In addition, long workpieces that extend beyond the center of the SBZ 125/85 can still be machined. 

"The new rotatable control console simplifies the operator's task," said Ladestein. "That is designed as a rotating column with a height-adjustable screen and provides an unobstructed view, which improves safety. Furthermore, an innovative technology reduces tool changeover times, resulting in faster setup and increased flexibility." 

Adjustment of the clamps for clamping 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 workpiece thus moves to the center of the machine before machining. In this position, it can then be machined optimally by the tools. 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. "All these features make the profile machining center SBZ 125/85 another important addition to our portfolio, eluCloud Ready for the requirements of Industry 4.0," concludes Ladestein.