When is a hole not just a hole?

Question: when is a hole, not just a hole? Answer, when it’s been created by Yorkshire Laser and Fabrication’s EML combination laser and punch.

As a sheet metal fabrication company YLF has more than 25 years’ experience of putting holes in sheet metal but the combination of two fabrication processes in this one machine is elevating this so the simple hole is not always just a hole.

For example, the wide variety of precise, high-quality forms that the EML can create includes:

·        Tapped holes – threaded holes for screws and fixings

·        Countersunk holes – giving a bevelled edge to allow screwheads to sit flat against the metal

·        Louvres– angled slats in the metal that enable ventilation while preventing dust, water and other undesirables from entering

·        Dimples– indentations in the metal which boost the strength and rigidity of metal components. Used in the moulding industry and to create stand-offs in enclosures.

·        Bridges– raised bridge-like shapes in the metal, used extensively in the electronics industry to enable cables to pass through.

The Amada EML AJ combination laser and punch brings together dual servo punching technology with a quick integrated hybrid drive fibre optic laser. It offers the best of both processes in one, elevating the quality of cut and finish provided by CNC punching and providing integrated solutions with minimal operator intervention on everything from simple to complex parts.

Richard Binks, YLF’s Sales Manager explained: “For years CNC punching was the go-to choice for sheet metal fabricators when it came to accurately forming holes and shapes in metal. Then laser cutting came along and was popular because of its versatility, speed and cost efficiency, but the punch’s reliability in accurately forming specific sizes of shapes with minimal distortion meant it still had a valued place at YLF.

“The EML is great for us because it combines the best of both processes and enables us to elevate the art of putting holes and shapes in metal while just using one machine. Metal sheets move seamlessly through the EML with the required forms being punched, formed, tapped and laser cut into it without the metal needing to exit the machine.”

Operating alongside the EML at Yorkshire Laser are an automatic punch and die tool changer plus an automated loading / unloading and picking facility. The tool changer offers up to 220 punches and 440 dies, significantly extending the choice of tappings and forms available to customers.

The picking facility helps to boost quality performance and streamline productivity by extracting parts from the metal skeleton, enabling joint-free processing, delivering first class parts first time and reducing the secondary processing involved in removing micro joints.

In addition, the EML combined with the automatic tool changer and automated loading / unloading and picking facilities results in long running autonomous operation, enhancing efficiency and enabling out of hours production.

Richard added: “Delivering exceptional customer service is first and foremost at Yorkshire Laser and that’s what we can do with the EML. The increased capacity productivity and cost savings it brings for us as a business equates to shorter lead times, competitive pricing and a more consistent product for our customers.”

So, another question, do you have a hole that’s not just a hole that you need making as part of your bespoke sheet metal part or component? If the answer is ‘yes’, why not give YLF a call on 01924 220236 or contact us here  and put our EML to the test.

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