A CNC punching tool converts an existing mechanical power press into a 2-axis high capacity flexible punching unit by adding a numerically controlled roll feeder and traverse slide.

Shear-Form Machine Tools, Coventry based sheet metal and plate working machinery supplier and the sole UK representative for Dimeco Groupe, the French coil processing equipment manufacturer has launched 'Decopunch' a new CNC punching tool that converts an existing mechanical power press into a 2-axis 'Flexipunch' high capacity punching unit by adding a numerically controlled roll feeder and traverse slide. The slide is used to move a removable cassette, which is fitted with cartridge tooling, actuated by built in selectors. It is suitable for manufacturing punched or embossed components without any limitation on length and up to 800mm wide, such as cable trays, storage racks and computer racks as well as Z and C purlins and building structures.

It can also be used for nesting and stamping circular components producing up to 10% savings in material costs.

Features of 'Decopunch' include flexibility with components with the same width but different lengths being produced in a row one after each other, thereby reducing down times.

It can be adapted to fit to 'C' frame or straight sided presses, whilst the tooling cassette can hold up to 12 cartridge tools and be change in less than 3 min.

The Siemens servomotor with its twin pitch control system produces a +/-0.1mm component length accuracy.

Dimeco's user friendly Simostar 12in graphic touch screen control terminal supplies the operator with manufacturing data such as parameterised product lists, maintenance requirements and instruction manuals, whilst production programs can be prepared offline using the installed software.