Feature

3D laser improves enclosure machining

Kiesling has launched a new 3D laser centre, the Perforex LC 3015, significantly expanding the performance range of its Perforex enclosure machining centres.

14/06/2015 10:25:46

As well as machining panels, manufacturers of controllers and switchgear can now quickly process complete housings such as the AE compact enclosure and the Rittal TS 8 enclosure system.

Fully welded enclosures such as the Rittal SE 8 can be machined from a number of sides and in one operation without re-clamping being required (instead, they only need to be placed on the surface of the machine) speeding up the process further.

While the machining of stainless steel surfaces has been associated with high tool wear, extended processing times, and high noise levels, machining with laser technology is non-contact, quick and offers little vibration, leaving the cut edges untarnished or discoloured. The need for manual rework tasks such as cleaning and deburring is also eliminated.

The Perforex LC 3015 is not only ideal for use with stainless steel, but also with sheet steel and powder coated metal plates.

It has a machining surface of 1,270mm x 850mm x 2,250mm. Stainless steel and steel sheets in material thicknesses of up to 3mm can be machined with a cutting width of only three tenths
of a millimetre and at a speed of approximately 550mm/min.

Payback on investment in the system for controller manufacturers and plant constructors is relatively quick – after just 150 stainless steel enclosures or 300 steel plate enclosures per year.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.