Flexible frames ease laser system assembly

An Applied Automation, Maytec Division product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Sep 5, 2006

Many manufacturers of special purpose machinery in the UK, are switching over from fabricated machine frames to more flexible solutions using extruded aluminium profiles.

Many manufacturers of special purpose machinery in the UK, are switching over from fabricated machine frames to more flexible solutions using extruded aluminium profiles.

Applied Automation, the UK supplier for MayTec, offers a comprehensive range of aluminium profiles and accessories which can be used in various applications including machine guarding, work and assembly stations and, of course, machine frames.

For the special purpose machine manufacturer, choosing the right product and supplier for the machine frame can be as important as delivering the finished manufacturing solution to the end customer on time and to spec.

Very often the benefit of such a flexible solution can make a difference of weeks to the delivery, even with each profile system having its own characteristics or perhaps by having a "standard" machine base which can be adapted further down the machine design process.

This is one of the reasons why OpTek Systems, an Oxford based manufacturer of advanced laser processing and inspection tools, chose Applied Automation and MayTec as its preferred machine enclosure solution.

Recognising the need for a quick turn around to meet the demands of their customers, OpTek Systems has developed a range of laser micromachining systems that take advantage of the flexible and adaptable nature of such machine frames.

Because of the precision required for the laser micromachining systems the company uses a fabricated machine subframe that supports the optical platform; then by using the MayTec profile system it creates a frame which allows them to "part build" the machine prior to the final specification being drawn up by their end customer.

This reduces the lead time of the machine and simplifies the design cycle.

The added benefit of using this type of machine frame or enclosure is the ability to mount hardware directly onto it by using the T-slot built into the extrusion.

OpTek Systems does not limit its involvement to the laser micromachining system, but will also engauge in the complete production process by handling the product prior to machining and also by removing the byproduct of the machining process.

Where possible the company aims to integrate its system into the customer's complete production line.

When asked why its chosen supplier was Applied Automation and why MayTec, Gavin Stockford, Operations Manager said: "The simple assembly of the MayTec profile system is key".

"We have tried other similar systems and found that with them you either need three hands to assemble it or that the captive nuts do not hold in place, the MayTec solution is far easier to assemble".

In addition the ease of assembly which, incidentally, is down to the unique way in which MayTec has designed its captive nuts, Stockford was also full of praise for the design and support team at Applied Automation where his comment sums it all up.

"The team at Applied Automation know what they are at".

"A simple phone call detailing the problem is solved quickly due to their knowledge and experience".

This is music to the ears of the Applied Automation team who take pride in their system design and aim to exceed the expectations of the customer, offering a free system design service and able to deliver profiles from stock, all aid their goal.

Principal Sales Consultant at OpTek System, Gideon Foster-Turner added: "Off the shelf components allow a more competitive solution, and having a standard platform ensures a bespoke machine can be housed within, improving our delivery times".