May 19, 2009 2:05 PM

Automatic Feed Company, an automotive supplier of high-speed coil processing equipment and automated systems, has announced that it has developed a new method for laser-cutting blanks from continuously fed coil stock capable of 18 to 30 production parts per minute.

The new process utilizes traditional coil feed and stacking technology with a coordinated series of laser cutting heads, which are positioned via CNC controls and driven by linear induction servomotors. Progressively, each laser head performs a portion of a cut along a common blank profile, with a parting cut performed just after shedding offal and prior to stacking. The lines can create incredibly efficient nesting scenarios capable of producing virtually any blank geometry conceivable. Furthermore, high production rates are achievable with even large parts such as automotive bodyside apertures, including thick gauge materials and high-strength steel.

“Our goal was to overcome all of the traditional barriers when attempting to replace stamping presses and shears with lasers,” said Kim Beck, president and CEO of Automatic Feed Company. “Although we are a manufacturer of servo shears and blanking dies as a part of our processing line automation, an approach with laser integration made too much sense for us to ignore.”

Automatic Feed Company began investing heavily in research and development of laser integration within its lines 18 months ago with outstanding technological results.

 “When showing customers the performance increases and cost savings they can achieve, we believe our laser blanking technology will be rapidly adopted in retrofit and new line applications,” added Beck.

For more information on this new laser blanking technology, a white paper and brochure are available by visiting www.automaticfeed.com and registering for an upcoming webinar on this new technology.

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