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What is CAM programming?

Written on . Posted in Industry News.

CAM programming or computer-aided manufacturing as it is also known uses computer-controlled machinery and high-tech software to automate the manufacturing process.

Engineers can create designs on computers which are then fed into the machines. In this article, we look at how the system and process works and when to use it.

How does CAM work?

In the past engineers have used traditional methods of manufacturing by creating patterns for the machines to follow. CAM removes the need for engineers to create hand-made ‘jigs’ with software that outlines the actions and processes for the machines to follow.

One of the advantages of CAM programming is that it is computer-aided. Designers can send their design specifications directly to the machine without the need to program the machines manually.

The process starts with designers creating a detailed 3D image of the part using the CAM software which speaks to the machinery.

Once the design, specifications, and measurements have been programmed the machine can replicate the part as many times as needed in as little time as possible.

When would you use CAM programming?

CAM is used across a wide range of industries including automotive and aerospace using a variety of materials such as metal, plastic, and wood.

The main advantage of CAM is that it reduces time. This increases productivity, with the automation process the key to its success.

Designers can correct and alter their designs without needing to manually reprogram the machines.

Contact us

If you would like more information about CAM programming, then you can get in touch with one of our specialist team here. Alternatively, you can call us direct on 01952 899144 or email sales@fabtechltd.co.uk

5 advantages of laser cutting

Written on . Posted in Industry News.

Manufacturing uses a lot of different cutting techniques in order to put together and preassemble materials. One method is laser cutting, and in this article, we look at 5 advantages of this process.

1. Materials

One of the main advantages is that it can be used on a wide range of materials including aluminium, copper, and steel. As the high-powered laser heats up it cuts through the material with ease no matter what the thickness or strength of the material is.

2. Smooth Edges

Manually cutting materials using shears can sometimes leave rough edges, this is not the case with laser cutting as it melts the material during the cutting process which leaves smooth edges. The  machines are equipped with CAM programming which determines how and where the interface is integrated into the material.

3. Precision

It’s incredibly precise which is why it is used by many manufacturing companies. At Fab-Tech our AMADA Ventis fibre optic laser cutting machine uses the latest technology in shaped, oscillating beams to deliver fast and accurate cutting alongside lower power consumption.

4. Automated Process

Another huge benefit of laser cutting is that the process can be fully automated and can be used in conjunction with CAM programming. This allows the designers to create and send their designs straight to the laser cutting machine. It can then be left to do its job, even throughout the night.

5. Time Efficient

Laser cutting is a fast and efficient process for manufacturing companies that it enables them to operate at high speed and meet tight deadlines for their customers. It is also a much more energy-efficient process than other cutting methods.

Speak to the specialists

If you would like to know more about how we can help you why not get in touch with one of the Fab-Tech team here. Alternatively, you can call us direct on 01952 899144 or email sales@fabtechltd.co.uk

What Do Precision Engineers Do? 

Written on . Posted in Industry News.

Precision engineering is a technique that many companies are turning to because of its high level of accuracy, quick turnaround times, and ability to take a concept and turn it into a reality. In this article, we look at what precision engineers do. 

Problem solvers 

Clients often use precision engineering to solve problems and will look to engineers to help. Using their expert knowledge and skill set precision engineers can take an idea and design a product using state-of-the-art technology and equipment such as CAM programming. 

Precise measurements 

Engineering technology has developed over the years, and it has given precision engineers the tools to be able to do their job more efficiently. This has helped them to meet tight deadlines as well as increase production. The engineering technology also means that intricate parts can be produced to their exact size and measurements. 

Skilled craftsmen 

Every engineering and fabrication project is different which is why precision engineers need to be able to think and act quickly. This enables them to turn complex designs and specifications into reality which in turn manages the expectations of the client – and ensures a consistent level of production. 

High accuracy 

Precision engineering requires a high level of accuracy to ensure that the parts produced are going to fit. If they are even a few millimetres out it will cause problems later down the line. Using CAM programming can help reduce any human error and specifications can be changed immediately. 

Speak to the experts 

If you would like to know more about precision engineering and how we can help you, why not get in touch with one of the Fab-Tech team here. Alternatively, you can call us direct on 01952 899144 or email sales@fabtechltd.co.uk    

We have decades of experience in custom steel fabrication and can work to your specifications, no matter how large or small the project. 

5 Benefits of CAM Programming?

Written on . Posted in Industry News.

CAM programming is commonly used within the manufacturing industry across a wide range of sectors including automotive, farming, and aerospace. The advantages of using the software are huge and, in this article, we look at 5 benefits of CAM programming.

1. Increased productivity

One of the biggest benefits of CAM programming is that it can increase productivity which in turn will help with increased orders and potential profit for your business. CAM programming stops the need for having to manually calculate toolpaths for fabrication.

2. Accuracy

CAM programming has a very high level of accuracy as these applications have control over the production process. At Fab-Tech Telford our software can import .dwg, .dxf, and. iges CAD files, flatten them and optimize cutting paths.

The software can also add bend lines and sequences. The software speeds up the process of estimating new jobs and programming them ready for production.

3. Time-saving

Using CAM programming helps save time at every stage of the production which means we can produce prototypes and finished products much more quickly for our clients.

4. Quick changes

Being able to change the program quickly is just not something that happens often with a new revision. CAM software can update the toolpaths with any changed features and make you focus on anything that may be new.

5. Reduces mistakes

The more human input into anything the more potential for error. When it comes to writing the G code line by line the number of potential mistakes is very high.

Just fat fingering a single number could ruin the entire part. There is no way to verify the code before running it on the machine. CAM packages do not have the fat finger issues and include functionality like toolpath simulation which will verify that the toolpath is correct.

Speak to the specialists

If you would like to know more about CAM programming and how we can help you, why not get in touch with one of the Fab-Tech team here. Alternatively, you can call us direct on 01952 899144 or email sales@fabtechltd.co.uk

What is the difference between MIG and TIG welding? 

Written on . Posted in Industry News.

Fabrication and welding techniques is a big part of our services here at Fab-Tech Telford and we are often called upon to assemble different machined parts for our customers.

During this fabrication process, we use two different welding techniques called TIG (tungsten inert gas) and MIG (metal inert gas) – in this article we look at the differences between the two.

1. Technique

The two welding techniques that we use are dependent on the project. With TIG the welder is required to separate filler material onto the weld while at the same time operating the welding torch with the other hand. MIG welding uses a wire electrode which is fed through a spool gun.

2. Difficulty

When it comes to ease of use and handling MIG’s continual feeding of the wire makes it an easier option. TIG requires more skill as the welder needs to be able to hold the welding torch and the filler material at the same time.

3. Material Thickness

The thickness of the materials that you’re welding can be a factor as to which technique will be best. On one hand, MIG can weld thicker metals, however, if the metal is thinner then TIG is the best option.

4. Types of metals

At Fab-Tech Telford our experienced welders can work with a wide variety of metals including aluminium, stainless steel, and mild steel.

When deciding on which technique to use MIG works can work with most of these whereas TIG is better with thinner materials. Our experienced fabricators and welders will assess this when the components come in.

5. Welding Speed

Our goal is to work quickly and to a very high standard, both MIG and TIG welding techniques have their benefits when it comes to speed. TIG is the slower option but will provide a much higher level of detail whereas MIG is a lot faster and ideal if we want to turn a project around quickly.

6. Project size

No project is the same and they can come in different sizes with several different components to weld together. The MIG welding technique is ideal for larger projects with TIG used for smaller projects using thinner materials.

7. Control

All our welders and fabricators are highly skilled and can work with both welding techniques. TIG welders need to be proficient and experienced with timing and using both hands to balance the materials. The MIG welding technique is a good starting point for beginners.

Speak to the specialists

If you would like to know more about fabrication and how we can help you why not get in touch with one of the Fab-Tech team here. Alternatively, you can call us direct on 01952 899144 or email sales@fabtechltd.co.uk

5 Reasons to Use Custom Fabrication Services

Written on . Posted in Industry News.

Custom fabrication is an important part of modern manufacturing. Whether you are working on large technical projects or small-scale designs, having a dedicated and experienced fabricator is vital. Whatever your project might be, here are five reasons why you should use custom fabrication services in Telford.

1. Made to Your Specification

One of the first reasons to use custom fabrication services is that the specifications can be adapted to meet the requirements of the project. You want to make sure that the parts are the correct size the first time round which is why working with an experienced fabrication company is well worth the investment.

2. High-Quality Materials

Well-established sheet metal fabricators only use high-quality materials that are easy to work with and that will stand the test of time. Metal fabrication can also be finished with a powder or paint to give it a unique and professional look, as well as being easier to maintain.

3. Durability

When you purchase a fabricated product, you want to make sure that it withstands the elements and doesn’t corrode or wear down easily. Working with a professional and experienced fabricator means that there are not going to be any problems with the product later down the line.

4. Latest technology

Fabrication technology has developed over the years and in doing so has provided sheet metal fabricators with a greater level of control.

For example, at Fab-Tech Telford we have added automated sheet feeders to our main conversion machining centres to allow for unmanned working. Skilled operators manage the machines and pre-load them to operate lights out to provide fast response and low-cost parts.

5. Quality Finished Product

Fabricators are highly skilled professionals who have a keen eye for attention to detail. This means that when you work with steel fabricators in Telford who’ll always be sure of a quality finished product that is far superior to store-bought, mass-produced metalwork.

Looking for fabrication services in Telford?

We have years of experience in custom fabrication, welding, and CAM programming and can work to your project requirements, no matter how large, small or complex. If you would like to know more about our fabrication services and how we can help you, why not get in touch with one of the Fab-Tech team here. Alternatively, you can call us direct on 01952 899144 or email sales@fabtechltd.co.uk 

 

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