Stepping up

Teesside Architectural Aluminium has installed and automated CNC production machinery to increase output, while maintaining high quality and precision in its aluminium window frames, entrances and curtain walling.

Owner Paul McPherson embarked upon an exercise to evaluate the needs of the business, which, since its inception 11 years ago, had built a large portfolio of customers for its products. After inviting several machinery brands in to evaluate the company’s needs Paul eventually chose Kombimatec.

Kombimatec’s solution included its AMC308 Automatic CNC Machining Centre developed for both aluminium and PVCU profiles. The machine automatically performs all drilling, routing, slotting, tapping and milling functions via its control system and intuitive touch screen interface, and includes four adjustable pneumatic clamps, electronic variable speed control, and an automatic tool change cabinet as part of its specification.

The AMC308 is fed by the Kombimatec DGS450/500 Electronic Double Mitre Saw, which is ideally matched to the throughput of the CNC. The version supplied to TSA Aluminium includes using 500mm diameter TCT saw blades, a 4,000 mm cutting length, adjustable angles, and automatically tilting saw heads.

“This investment represented an important step for TSA Aluminium,” Paul said. “We had to embark on a fast learning curve to choose the right equipment to take us into the future and we had to install it while creating minimal disruption to on-going production. Director David Parsons not only showed an impressive knowledge of frame production, he also assimilated our needs quickly and presented some sound proposals to us that have proved highly effective in fulfilling our goals.

“He worked with us throughout the process, showing a commitment that was lacking in many of the others that came to see us.”