Laser cutting machine with integrated automation solution ensures optimum efficiency

Five years ago, EPM Metaaltechniek in Deurne was the very first company in the Netherlands to commission a high power laser cutting machine from Penta Laser Benelux. Earlier this year, the machine park was expanded with a complete automation solution around two laser cutting machines from the BOLT VII family. "This system provides extra capacity and flexibility," says director-owner Martien Welten.

For over a quarter of a century, EPM Metaaltechniek has specialized in the machining of stainless steel, aluminum and steel sheets, as well as sawing and milling work, weld assemblies and profile machining. Over the years, the company has increasingly modernized and automated its production process. "With our first laser cutting machine purchased in 2019 from Penta Laser - a BOLT IV 4020 - we have always been very satisfied," Welten says. "Partly for this reason, at the invitation of Penta Laser Benelux, I visited Penta Laser's factory in China in the spring of 2024 to see a complete automation solution around laser cutting machines from the BOLT VII family. I was immediately impressed. For example, Penta Laser has all the disciplines for such a complete automation line in-house, without the need to use components from other brands. In addition, the excellent value for money was the deciding factor, especially when compared to European manufacturers."

Suction Cups

Since the beginning of this year, two brand new models of the 12 kW BOLT VII 4020 series, complete with a complete
integrated automation solution. "First, the system consists of six towers - or a plate warehouse - suitable for up to a plate size of 4 x 2 meters," Welten clarifies. "Then the sheets are picked up on a line using suction cups. With a fork system, the plates are taken off the cutting bed, after which they go to the sorting position."

Optimal flow

According to the director-owner, the new automation system has significantly increased production capacity. "Sufficient capacity also means that you can guarantee an optimal flow throughout your company. Because we can process much more with this new system, planning problems are a thing of the past. Another big advantage is that with this system you can work both automatically and semi-automatically. If, in a flow of orders, we want to quickly make another product in between, we can. In other words, with this system you can also easily switch between different products. That flexibility is very important to us as a relatively small company that needs to be able to respond quickly to customer requirements."

Online support

According to Welten, such a high-level automation solution hinges on the power of the control system that can process all the data quickly and accurately. That too, he says, is in excellent shape at Penta Laser. "Their own operating system - called the Smart Manager - is extremely good and fast. I especially appreciate the openness and transparency with which this company handles their software. You can see all the data you need at any time, which is nice." Welten is also very pleased with Penta Laser Benelux's service. "In case of questions or problems with the software, we are always helped quickly, via direct online support from the factory." All in all, the director-owner concludes that he made a good choice with the automation solution from Penta Laser Benelux and that the system offers a lot of extra capacity and flexibility. "Both myself and my employees are very happy with the results we have achieved so far, because this automation solution provides a huge efficiency gain." 

Visits by appointment

Anyone curious about the possibilities of the BOLT VII laser cutting machines in combination with the integrated automation solution is, by appointment, always welcome to come take a look at EPM Metaaltechniek in Deurne. "We would be happy to show you what this solution has to offer" concludes Welten.