Consolidating its commitment to continuous improvement in its local manufacturing processes, WEG has taken delivery of two laser cutting machines and three bending machines for its sheet metal cutting operation, which forms part of its manufacturing facility in Robertsham, Johannesburg. The state-of-the-art machines have already increased productivity and efficiency, reducing internal delivery times and, in turn, lead times for customers.
The machine operator inputting data into the new laser machine at WEG’s Robertsham facility.
Over recent years, WEG has bolstered its capacity across its various manufacturing facilities in South Africa. The Robertsham factory, which specialises mainly in the production of medium voltage switchgear, motor control centres (MCCs), medium voltage soft starters, low voltage variable speed drives and soft starter enclosures, is the latest facility to benefit from a significant capital investment in new manufacturing technology.
Anderson Kohler, General Manager at WEG Africa, says the facility previously operated two conventional punching machines and these have been replaced by the two fibre laser cutting machines – 3 kW and 4 kW units. “The decision was made to replace the old punching machines in order to move beyond the challenges of breakdowns and quality issues. Previously, we experienced less than 50% availability, which meant significant production downtime,” says Kohler.
With their exceptional high-precision accuracy, the new fibre laser cutting machines have revolutionised manufacturing processes. The speed at which the machines cut metal is about 50% faster than punching, and the precise slitting ensures cut surfaces have no rough edges, increasing product quality and reducing waste, based on the best use of raw materials.
“Our machine availability is now between 95% and 99%, a big step up from the old machines,” says Arno Broodryk, Mechanical Supervisor at WEG Africa.
Kohler adds that fibre laser technology eliminates the need for setup and tooling time because it does not entail physical tooling. These efficiencies mean more time is spent on production, resulting in super swift internal delivery times and shorter lead times for customers.
In addition, WEG has replaced its two old bending machines with three modern units. “Again, the productivity with the new bending technology is unmatched and the quality is outstanding. Previously, we had to set up the bends manually, but the programming software on the new bending machines reduces the need for human intervention,” explains Broodryk.
As WEG continues to expand the range of products manufactured locally, the new top-of-the-line bending technology and laser cutting machines offer new capabilities and allow for the addition of new product lines to the sheet metal factory.
“The next step in our investment strategy is the acquisition of a new copper busbar punching machine, which is expected to arrive this year,” says Kohler. “Continuous improvement means we can do better today than yesterday, and we can do even better tomorrow.”
For more information visit: www.weg.net
