Features, Advantages, Benefits Chart
Reads industry standard NC1 files from NC bandsaws and drill lines
Some competitor’s machines, particularly of Chinese origin only support manual entry of predefine parametric end copes or features that must be entered at the machine. Using NC1 import makes the XB1200 compatible with expensive but industry standard structural steel mark-up software such as Tekla, StruCad, Advance Steel etc., thus automating the workflow from design to fabrication
Simplifies workflow and removes human error from re-entry of data.
Increases productivity.
Allows machine owner to easily cut parts from their customers own software
Reads 3D solid models directly from CAD software
No other competitor’s machines can read 3D models directly into the controller for immediate cutting.
This feature allows the use of any 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD Inventor to create parts and export as a 3D model such as step, iges, stl and so on. Allows mechanical engineers to send files directly to the machine without special software or human interpretation.
Removes human error due to translating 3D files.
Dramatically improves productivity and accuracy.
Removes dependence on expensive specialised steel mark-up software
Reads 2D DXF files
Some competitor’s machines are restricted to NC1 files only.
The XB1200 can import files from any 2D CAD program. This allows the use of very inexpensive software (including free CAD products) to produce drawings that can be directly cut on the machine. These can be easily verified and modified at the machine on the operator console.
Many steel industry draftspersons are only familiar with 2D CAD software.
Removes the need for specialised software.
Reduces cost of implementation.
Familiar CAD tools can be used without extensive retraining.
Enables operator to create complex jobs at the machine without expensive software.
Process any standard structural steel profiles
The machine can automatically recognise and extract steel profile data from a file and match it to a library of thousands of steel profiles across many international standards and naming conventions for automatic cutting.
If a profile is not already existing in the database, then the controller analyses the drawing and creates a new profile entry in the database.
Can process universal beam and column, welded beam and column, equal and unequal angle, parallel and tapered flange channel – all hot rolled and welded profiles up to a massive 1200mm wide
Very few limitations.
Expands processing capability.
Increases market opportunities.
Process 4 sided profiles
Unlike many other machines, the XB1200’s unique robotic arm can easily cut underneath the material without restrictions.
The most prolific competitor’s machine is limited to processing the underneath of narrow profiles due to a small extension piece added to their robot. This was in response to our prototype’s capabilities becoming known.
Many other processing machines simply cannot cut the bottom face of material such as RHS and SHS rectangular tube products.
Extends the capacity beyond strictly structural hot rolled steel products. Required by most fabrication businesses.
Process pipe
Due to the unique material feeding mechanism and robotic arm configuration, the XB1200 can automatically load and process pipe and circular hollow section (CHS) up to a massive 1200mm diameter. Many large structures are constructed from round tube and pipe.
Extremely sought-after feature.
Not available in most other machines.
Dimensional capacity far exceeds that those that do.
Cuts flat plate
This enables a customer to replace traditional flat-bed style profile cutters, as the XB1200 can automatically load and process flat plate up to 1800mm wide and unlimited length. This exceeds the capacity of most CNC profile cutting machines.
One machine can perform all steel cutting processes.
Truly a one stop solution for a steel fabrication facility.
Reduces overall investment required.
Increases market opportunities.
Fully automated nesting and stock management
Many other machines have a semi manual feeding and loading mechanism and a piece-by-piece cutting methodology.
After loading material on the infeed mechanism, the operator does not need to manually handle the material again until it is converted to usable parts.
The machine performs all material handling processes automatically. This frees the operator to manage other tasks such as preparing new batches of material and stacking finished parts.
Multiple parts can be processed continuously without user input.
Dramatically increases operator efficiency.
Reduces lag between parts as controller pulls stock through as required.
Full material handling and cutting
Many other machines have a semi manual feeding and loading mechanism and a piece-by-piece cutting methodology.
After loading material on the infeed mechanism, the operator does not need to manually handle the material again until it is converted to usable parts.
The machine performs all material handling processes automatically. This frees the operator to manage other tasks such as preparing new batches of material and stacking finished parts.
Multiple parts can be processed continuously without user input.
Dramatically increases operator efficiency.
Reduces lag between parts as controller pulls stock through as required.
Fully automated nesting and stock management
All parts are entered into a spreadsheet style interface with filenames and quantities. This data can also be imported from scheduling packages such as ERP/MRP software.
All parts are then separated by the controller into the respective material types and optimised (nested) into the available material lengths. A local stock control system is managed by the machine and can even generate a list of required material for future jobs if required.
A spreadsheet or data file is created automatically that tracks completed parts. Can notify ERP/MRP software when a part is completed.
Minimises material wastage
Removes manual stock calculations for ordering.
Interfaces with ERP/MRP software for job creation and processing.
Increases efficiency dramatically
Allows full part management and tracking
Huge advantage over other systems that can only process one part at a time.
3D part preview and verification tools
Automatically draws a 3D representation of the part to be cut on the screen. Operator can rotate and zoom on any feature to confirm details are as per the documentation. Vital for quality control.
Some design software produces sub-optimal output files that can contain errors. These tools allow operator to verify dimensions before and after cutting
Increased operator confidence
Extra levels of quality control before and after cutting of parts
Most processing machines only provide a 2D plan view
without verification tools.
Unlimited processing length
The design of the material handling system does not place limits on material length. Other machines can only handle a length that is shorter than the infeed roller mechanism due to a gripper or pusher style system.
Future proofs the investment. Can adapt to material dimensions that may not have been predicted at the time of machine purchase.
Easy to learn touchscreen controller
The controller uses plain English messages and interface. The operator is not required to learn any NC coding techniques. New operators have been observed to be processing parts unassisted after only a few hours of training
Operators learn fast.
Protects owner from being held to ransom by operators that try to protect their job by keeping their skills to themselves.
Faster processing
Due to efficient use of motion, and minimal downtime between parts, the XB1200 can process large volumes of material in a short period of time. Many jobs can run semi-unattended with the operator only required to supervise and monitor.
More throughput
Higher profits
Compete favourably against cheap imported fabrications
Higher accuracy
Many boilermakers and welders are comfortable with +/- 10mm accuracy on large fabrications. This is a thing of the past.
The XB1200 removes many manual errors such as incorrect measurements or misunderstanding of detailed drawings.
Parts can be produced within much higher tolerances than can usually be achieved by manual processing. Part data is transferred directly from the design software to finished component without human translation
The XB1200 is much more precise than many other automated processing machines as it works within sub-mm tolerances over large lengths of material.
Less mistakes.
Less rework.
Less customer complaints.
More productivity.
Higher profits.
More jobs.
