2018 has seen some major shifts in the sheet metal fabrication industry. Whilst some trends like automation and a dearth of skilled labour in the industry have been on the horizon for a while, other shifts such as the ‘reshoring’ trend are a product of the rapidly changing global economy and recent political events. In this article, we examine some of the key trends that have emerged in the industry so far this year.

An increased demand for steel

The current popularity of industrial finishes in architecture and interior design mean that steel fabrication is in popular demand. This current demand for steel means that most steel being used consists of somewhere between 50-60% recycled materials. As steel can be endlessly reconstituted without loss of quality or strength, it can be made from 100% recycled materials however, the current demand outstrips the amount of recyclable material currently available.

 

3D printing

It was only a matter of time until 3D printing made an appearance in the metal fabrication industry. As the technology advances, new opportunities to increase output and efficiency whilst minimising waste are constantly arising. 3D printing has also opened up the industry to new possibilities in terms of customisation.

 

Automation takes centre stage

Automation has been a fixture in the metal fabrication industry for many years now, but the rise of AI and IoT technologies means that an increasing number of tasks can be automated so metal fabricators can focus on their core competencies. Whilst automation does mean that production and assembly jobs can be managed more effectively by AI than it can by manpower, it also opens up opportunities for skilled technicians and data interpreters to gain a foothold in the industry.

 

Skills shortage

Despite the increasingly centralised role of automation, the metal manufacturing industry is still experiencing a skill labour shortage in Australia with skilled fitters, sheet metal workers, welders and boilermakers all in high demand due to a dearth of students completing the necessary qualifications.

Reshoring

With rising wage prices in Asia, market volatility risks and the rising cost of transport, many companies are choosing to move away from an offshore manufacturing model to a nearshore or onshore model. This means more work for Australian based sheet metal manufacturers.

 

Acra are sheet metal machinery specialists dedicated to supplying Australian metal fabricators with quality new and used machinery. To learn more about our range or capabilities, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling 03 9794 6675.

 

 

 

 

 

This week on the Acra blog we are reviewing the four Jorns AG slitter folder products we have available for Melbourne businesses. Jorns AG are known as the best slitter folder manufacturers in the world and we are proud to stock this industry leader.

About Jorns AG

Jorns AG of Switzerland is the world’s leading manufacturer of slitter folder products. Their range includes long folders and automated up/down folders as well as cutting systems. All of the Jorns AG products are assembled and tested onsite in the company’s own assembly hall. Currently, Jorns AG builds and sells 100-120 bending machines per year. The brand maintains a firm focus on folding machinery and working with light gauge materials in long lengths. Jorns models are ideal for manufacturing individual parts or small batch production and are mainly for manufacturing purposes in the roofing and architecture industries. Some of the defining characteristics of Jorns slitter folders include:

 

• Ergonomic design
• Advanced safety and performance features
• Superior construction using laser technology, welding robots and CNC machining centres
• Highly efficient processing
• Unsurpassed continuous output

 

Jorns Long Length Slitter Folders

In order to cater to their diverse clientele, Jorns AG long length slitter folders incorporate modular design which enables customers to configure the machinery to suit their manufacturing requirements. Some of the possible modular fixtures include:

• CNC controls unit (graphically supported)
• Depth stop
• Conical depth stop
• Cutting systems
• Shearing systems
• Hydraulic material thickness adjustment, hem pre-tensioning
• Top beam pretensioning
• Mobile programming

 

All of the Jorns AG long length slitter models include

• Hydraulic system

For quiet, reliable and energy efficient operation. Features proportional guarantee-controlled speeds, top beam overload protection, top beam with load relief, hydraulic cylinder with ramp control system and pipe brak safety devices.

• Machine safety

Including a multi-bean laser system which detects potential hazards before the danger point is reached

• Dual pedal foot control

For fast and convenient operation

• Bending beam mounted on coupling joints

For scratch free sheet surfaces and elegant radii

• Use friendly controls

 

Jorns TwinMatic-Pro

Jorns AG developed the first double bending machines in 2001 and since then, these models have revolutionised the industry by eliminating the need for rotating and flipping which is both time and energy consuming. The TwinMatic-Pro uses positive-negative bending technology to achieve a precise bend whilst cutting down production times and therefore unit costs. Like the Long Length Slitter Folders, the TwinMatic-Pro features several modular options which lets businesses configure the machinery to suit their manufacturing needs. Some of the features common to all TwinMatic Pro models include:

• Pneumatic clamping finger with changer system

Enables flat sheets to be automatically stopped and folded sheets to be gripped

• Machine safety

Including a light curtain, protective fence and multi-beam laser system to identify hazards

• Hem pretension

For uniform closing of the hem

• Bending beam pretension

Enables each bending beam section to be adjusted as needed

• Material thickness adjustment RH

Compensates for different sheet thicknesses

• Multiproportional hydraulic system

Enables multiple hydraulically driven axes to be moved simultaneously, reducing cycle time

 

Jorns Gutter Bending Machine

Ideal for manufacturing gutters and curves in a wide range of shapes and lengths, the gutter bending machine is precise and has a high repeat accuracy. This machine is a cost-effective manufacturing solution for both standard and special gutters. As with other Jorns AG brand products, the gutter machine is ideal for long, lightweight materials. It can bend up to 1.25mm thickness and lengths of up to 10 metres. Key features of the Gutter bending machine include:

• Three rollers

Ideal for producing narrow curves in close succession

• Pretension

To ensure uniform rounding over the working surface

• Supporting table
• Stop system Types RM and 11

Allows raw materials to be precisely positioned and has an inbuild safety mechanism which lifts up in the case of clamping

• CNC800RM controls

Mounted on a mobile console and network enabled, this touchscreen control allows for remote diagnosis, graphics software and automatic rear stop

• Servo motors

To meet exacting rounding demands

• Roller safety (multi-beam laser system)

Detects potential danger before closing

• 2 pedal foot controls

For fast and simple operation

• Height adjustable table

 

Jorns Mini Service Centre

Combining a decoiling unit, cut to length die, straightening unit, tandem scrap rewinder and recoiling unit, the Jorns AG Mini Service Centre is perfect for continuously changing production units or performing series production in a cost effective and professional way.

 

We specialise in sheet metal manufacturing products and are dedicated to providing Melbourne businesses with access to both high quality products and qualified advice. To learn more about our range of new and used slitter folder products, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us by calling 03 9794 6675.

 

While we’ve covered the ‘Top 3 Plasma Cutting Mistakes‘, we can’t forget about the laser cutting process. In terms of health and safety – as well as maintaining the integrity of your machine – there are a few things to keep in mind when operating a laser cutter. 

 

Mistake #1: Marking too lightly

Though it doesn’t matter what colour you mark lines with, red is the most conventional colour because it is highly visible. The machine typically cannot detect light colours. So, if you aren’t using red, try to use a colour that stands out clearly. 

 

Mistake #2: Not scaling the workpiece

Before starting the project, you should make sure your drawing is scaled to fit the laser bed. This will ensure a process that is as smooth as possible. How you scale the drawing will depend on the machine’s software.  

 

Mistake #3: Not keeping the machinery clean

There are many areas of a laser cutter that you need to keep clean to maintain the mere performance of the machine (such as support slats and pallet ways). However, unclean processing areas can actually present a thermite hazard.  

Thermite is a mixture of a metal oxide and aluminium. Typically, it occurs in fabricating environments with mild steel. When thermite is ignited, it can produce dangerously high temperatures that can melt through metal containers and set the contents alight.  

To avoid thermite hazards, try to keep these areas free of dust, dirt, debris and grease: 

• Scrap drawers 
• Ducting 
• Dust collectors 

 

Mistake #4: Loitering around

While laser cutting is in process, having others in the room who are simply loitering can present a health hazard – especially if there are food and drinks involved. 

On the other hand, the laser cutting job should not be left unattended. Even though the process is automatic, hardware malfunctions are entirely possible. For everyone’s safety, the job must always be supervised.  

 

Mistake #5: Removing the workpiece too quickly

Removing the workpiece too hastily can cause damage to your laser cutting machine. This is because the workpiece may knock and damage the head, or shift its alignment. Either way, your project will be affected.  

 

At Acra Machinery, we offer a vast range of quality new and used laser cutters for your project needs. We are a locally owned and operated business based in Dandenong. Don’t hesitate to give our friendly staff members a call on 03 9794 6675 to discuss your best options for laser cutting technology.  

The press brake continues to be the most reliable and economic machine to precisely bend sheet metal. Deciding on what type of press brake you need depends on what you need it for. In this blog we are going to help you choose between a mechanical, hydraulic and electric press brake by going through the basic differences

 

Mechanical

The mechanical model is the oldest type of press brake on the market. There are no special applications and the setup is simple. It is great for simple jobs that don’t require anything too elaborate.

If the job is a little more complicated or requires precision, setting up a different bend angle takes a lot of fiddling and can take up a lot of time. If you need elaborate work done then you are better off with another option.

Hydraulic

The hydraulic press brake is more common on the market with the high level of control you get. It has quick retraction, multiple speeds and more versatility. This press brake is great for more complex jobs that require accuracy, and it is a little safer to use.

If the job requires a fast speed of production, keep in mind that the Hydraulic press brake can be a little slower than the other kinds.

Electric

The electric press brake is relatively new on the market and is the latest evolution of press brakes. For this reason it is a little pricier, but it more than makes up for it. For starters you will save on maintenance, as the electric press brake is a little sturdier. They allow multiple setups that will save you some time. Because of its accuracy you won’t waste as many materials. Generally they take less to run, they are fast and ideal for lots of repetitive jobs.

This machine is perfect if your workspace is small and of you’re looking for something quiet. If the job requires precision and intricate bends, the electric press brake is designed for precision-ground tooling.

 

At ACRA Machinery we have a range of new and used press brakes from mechanical, hydraulic, electric to hybrid press brakes. We are also happy to talk you through the different press brakes and help you find the best one for you. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling us on 03 9794 6675.

 

To keep anything in top condition, we must service and repair it frequently. And when it comes to the quality and life of your metal machinery, it is exactly the same. To ensure you get the most out of your metal equipment and can continue to use it for years at optimum condition, there are some specific things you can do. In this week’s blog, we share three maintenance tips to extend the life of your metal machinery.  

1) Stay on top of large machinery operator training 

With larger equipment, it’s essential that you pay close attention to its operation. Immediately after purchasing large machinery, inspect it, and also complete operator training at this point. From here on, it’s important that you maintain this training. 

One of the most common causes of breakdown is lousy skills and operation. So make sure you consistently check in on your employees’ operational abilities and train new staff as they enter your business. 

2) Check for signs of wear 

The next tip to extend the life of your metal machinery is to conduct routine checks for signs of wear. There are several different factors that can lead to breakdown of parts in heavy machinery, including vibration, shock, high temperatures, friction, and age. If you do discover any wear, make sure to replace the necessary parts as soon as possible – before proceeding with the machine any further. 

3) Have a maintenance and repair schedule 

The final way to preserve your equipment is to establish a maintenance and repair schedule. Sometimes, we need a little bit of extra help and planning to keep us on track. Creating a list that outlines what needs to be repaired and when is a great way to ensure you get the most out of your metal machinery. 

If you need help with the repairing or servicing your metal machinery, we can help. Please call us on 03 9794 6675 to get a quote today.  

Setting goals is key to the success and progress of your business. But what sort of goals should you make? Well, depending on whether you want to increase your profit margin, penetrate new markets or expand your client base, there are lots of different goals you can set. In this blog, we provide some tips and tricks for setting realistic goals that you can reach in 2018.  

Review your 2017 goals and success 

Before you start thinking about the year ahead, it’s important to first reflect on the progress you made in the past year. Think back to January of last year: what goals did you set? Did you achieve these goals? Did you even set any goals to begin with? Once, you’ve figured that out, you can decide whether you want to expand on these goals further or make new ones. If you forgot or didn’t achieve your goals, it’s also a good time to think about why it didn’t happen and the potential roadblocks that prevented you from following through. 

Make SMART goals 

You don’t want to set any random goals. You want to create manageable goals that are aspirational yet achievable. A SMART goal is: specific, measurable, attainable, realistic/relevant, and can be achieved within a timeframe. After making your goals, make sure to go through these points to ensure your goal/s check all the boxes. 

Write your goals down 

Once you’ve got your goals, write them down. Writing down goals or typing them, helps crystallise these goals in our minds and in our business. It makes the goals seem “real” and you feel a greater expectation to actually achieve them.  

Plan, plan, plan! 

There’s no way you will reach your goals if you don’t have a solid action plan. So make sure to create a detailed plan that outlines how and by when you will have reached your goal/s. 

 

At ACRA Machinery, we’ve set our business goals for 2018. We supply, repair and maintain sheet metal machinery. If you need new machinery, used machinery, press brakes, bandsaws and more, we can help. Please call us on 03 9794 6675 to get started today. 

As a boss, for your operation to run smoothly, you need to be across every aspect of the business at all times. It’s enough to do your head in, but being an effective leader is integral to the success of your business. In this week’s article, we’re going to run through four ways to make sure that you’re the best boss possible.

It’s all about organisation

Every effective leader begins here- organisation is key to your success. So it’s up to you to establish a system that works for your metal manufacturing company. The best organisations keep everything set to a flow, so that everything is kept in fluid motion with high quality output. To a better boss, step back every once in a while to reassess your operation- is everything working as smoothly as it should?

Foster community

Given that one third of our lives are spent at work, it’s always better to be doing something that we feel is rewarding, meaningful and important. That’s where a good manager comes in. It’s true that it’s not your responsibility to identify what’s significant to your employees, but it is important for you to foster a healthy workplace through building community among your workers. In an effective work environment, everyone feels as though they are valued and understands their role.

Steady the course

As manager, your job is to direct the flow of work. This means that you need to jump into the driving seat with a clear direction in mind- including both the end result and the journey itself. Without a clear vision, your leadership can quickly become muddied and ineffective.

Be the example

It’s a given that your workers will look to you for direction, but be sure to also provide them with an example of what it means to be an exemplary worker. To be an effective leader, you need to be able to listen to and engage with your team so that they feel heard. It’s also important that you become an example of an efficient working style. In response, they’ll look at your workstyle and try to model it.

Everyone’s leadership style is different, but these four tips are core pillars upon which you should build your approach to management. Give it a go- the results may surprise you.

Acra stock a dynamic range of new and used sheet metal manufacturing machinery. To learn more, get in touch by calling 03 9794 6675.