Metal Fabricator Launches New Trumpf TruLaser 3030

Impressive Improvements in Metal Profiling

Hydram Engineering, a leading name in sheet metal fabrication, has significantly enhanced its manufacturing capabilities with the acquisition of the Trumpf TruLaser 3030, a cutting-edge 10kW fibre laser cutting system, complete with integrated automation systems.  This investment marks a substantial upgrade in Hydram’s precision, efficiency, and commitment to sustainability, reinforcing its dedication to delivering quality products to its diverse customer base.

This new machine replaces an older 4kW CO2 laser system, representing a significant leap forward in technology and performance for its laser cutting service.  The investment represents the culmination of a 12-month project, involving significant modifications to the factory building, including raising a significant portion of the roof to accommodate the height of the TruStore tower – an impressive multi-shelf sheet storage and retrieval system.  With the machine now in production, Hydram is fully assessing the improvements that the new technology offers.

Trumpf TruLaser 3030

The Trumpf TruLaser 3030 is a versatile, high-performance laser cutting machine designed to handle a wide range of materials with impressive speed, precision, and flexibility.  Renowned for its reliability and superior cutting quality, this machine empowers Hydram to optimise production processes and meet the growing demands of its customers.  Some of the standout features of the TruLaser 3030, further enhanced by integrated automation systems, include:

• Speed and Efficiency:  One of the key benefits of the TruLaser 3030 is its rapid cutting speed, significantly improving turnaround times. This is especially advantageous for Hydram Engineering’s customers who require quick delivery of complex components without compromising on quality.  Compared to the older CO2 laser system it replaces, the TruLaser 3030 offers dramatically faster cutting speeds, leading to increased throughput and reduced lead times.  The increased power output allows oxide-free cutting of mild steel with nitrogen at thicknesses up to 10mm, which can be a significant benefit compared to cutting with oxygen.  The TruLaser 3030’s efficiency, boosted by automated material handling, also limits the effect of increasing production costs across the business, maintaining Hydram’s competitive edge in the market.
• Automation for Enhanced Productivity:  Hydram Engineering has maximised the productivity of the TruLaser 3030 by integrating advanced automation systems.  The seven-shelf TruStore tower system provides automated loading and unloading of materials, ensuring a continuous and efficient workflow.  This minimises downtime and maximises the machine’s cutting time.  Furthermore, the PartMaster conveyor system streamlines the unloading process, making it safer and more efficient for operators to handle finished parts. These integrated automation solutions improve productivity and reduce manual handling.
• Sustainability Features:  The TruLaser 3030, employing solid-state TruDisk fibre laser technology, is significantly more energy-efficient than the older CO2 laser system it replaces.  This translates to a reduction in Hydram Engineering’s energy consumption and associated carbon footprint, despite the increased power output.  The precise cutting capabilities also minimise material waste, further enhancing its environmental benefits.  This focus on sustainability aligns with Hydram’s commitment to adopting green technologies and improving the sustainability of its operations.  The machine’s optimised beam delivery and efficient use of consumables also contribute to a smaller environmental footprint.

Game-Changers

“Investing in the TruLaser 3030, along with the associated automation systems, represents a significant step forward for Hydram Engineering,” says Operations Director Stephen Beacham. “Replacing our older CO2 laser with this cutting-edge fibre laser machine has resulted in considerable energy savings and a faster, more efficient production process.  The TruStore and PartMaster systems have been game-changers, allowing us to run the machine more efficiently and safely.  This machine not only boosts our production capacity and precision but also reinforces our commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.”

Senior Account Manager Neil Bell adds, “From a commercial perspective, the increased efficiency and versatility, combined with faster turnaround times due to automation, allows us to continue offering customers competitive pricing and strengthens our position in the market.”

Comprehensive Capabilities

Over the past 47 years, Hydram has established an enviable reputation in the sheet metal fabrication marketplace, providing finished metal products to customers in industries ranging from heavy construction equipment and public transportation solutions, through to electrical cabinets and HVAC systems.

The investment in the Trumpf TruLaser 3030 is just one example of Hydram Engineering’s ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of the sheet metal fabrication industry.  Based in County Durham in the North of England, the company has grown over the last 48 years to become the premier UK precision subcontractor, fully equipped to supply complete metal fabrications direct to tier-one manufacturers.

With continuous upgrades to its machinery and technology, Hydram ensures that it is equipped to meet evolving customer needs, and maintains its reputation as a leader in manufacturing quality and customer service.  Hydram’s capabilities now include laser cutting (both sheet and tube), CNC punch profiling, folding, panel bending, welding, assembly, CNC machining and powder coating, boasting considerable capacity on its 135,000 square foot site.  These facilities are backed up with a comprehensive suite of quality certifications and a workforce committed to customer service.

Continuous Improvement

“Our success is founded on customer satisfaction – we aim to achieve maximum productivity, quality and service whilst maintaining competitive prices,” Neil Bell concludes.  “We work closely with customers to establish long-term partnerships and strive to continuously improve how we do things.  The new Trumpf 3030 is just one example of how we embrace improvements – and it is a pretty impressive one.”