Precision fabrication company Hydram Sheet Metalwork’s CNC punching service offers a cost effective precision profiling solution – with rapid processing speeds and lower operating costs than laser cutting. Hydram bought its first CNC punching machine in 1986 and has continually upgraded its capabilities, including automated sheet storage and retrieval. Subcontract Trumpf punching is one of many services offered by this large UK subcontract fabrication company.
Hydram’s two automated CNC punching machines are capable of punching materials in thicknesses up to 5mm and sheet sizes up to 3 metres x 1.5 metres. The materials punch profiled include stainless steel, mild steel, aluminium, brass and copper. Using computer-assisted part nesting allows maximum material utilisation. The punching head also allows simple forming and tapping (threading) operations to be carried out during the same cycle, therefore saving the need for setting up secondary operations.
Subcontractor Hydram runs two Trumpf TruPunch 5000 cells complete with automated SheetMaster loading and unloading systems, which allow the machines to run with minimal supervision. Larger parts can be picked up out of the sheet skeleton using the SheetMaster and stacked on pallets, whilst smaller parts can be ejected down a chute.
Punch tooling is stored in automated ToolMaster system, allowing tool changes to occur within a program cycle or between setups without interruption. Completed sheet skeletons are removed using the GripMaster, again allowing the machine to run uninterrupted at the end of each program cycle.
The two machines, purchased in 2021 and 2016 are the latest S12 models having several upgrades over the previous generation that increase productivity and flexibility, such as a faster C-axis, an active die system and individually retractable clamps.
To complement the fast TruPunch 5000 S12 machines, TruStore 3030 tower storage systems allows raw material to be prepared in advance, to maximise uptime. The TruStore 3030 systems are equipped with up to 23 shelves, with each shelf having a maximum storage capacity of 3 tonnes. The tower systems allow the punching machines to run continuously without having to wait for material.
