The future of fabrication
Stephen Greenall, Machinery Support Manager – Engineering, discusses the latest innovations in fabrication, how they can streamline processes and help attract the next generation of fabricators.
Automation is revolutionising industries worldwide, and the fabrication sector is no different. Whether fabricating doors and windows for residential projects, or complex façade systems for high rise buildings, embracing automation helps businesses to grow by optimising processes and increasing productivity.
While not all fabricators use automated machining systems, we have seen a significant increase in demand over the past few years as businesses recognise the benefits of automation. Machines perform tasks such as cutting and drilling with more accuracy and speed than human operators, increasing efficiency and production while reducing risk.
Introducing an element of automation frees operatives to apply their skills to more complex fabrication work, leaving the machinery to complete the repetitive tasks that require concentration but relatively little skill. In turn this increases efficiency and speeds up the production process, increasing the capacity of the fabricator.
Adopting automation
The decision to invest in automation is not one that is taken lightly, as it can have a significant impact on the way the business operates. Alongside the strategic questions there can also be some very practical concerns: “How will I get the machine into the building?” “What about maintenance?” “What help is available if it breaks down?”. Our support is as much about the integration of the engineering into a business as about the engineering itself.
We start with a factory walkthrough to understand the team’s workflow, assess which machines would be most beneficial, and evaluate available floor space. We support our partners through every step of the process, from initial enquiry through to a fully operational system. We’ll train the operators and our free lifetime hotline support service is available whenever needed.
One important point that sometimes comes as a surprise to customers is that Schüco machines do not only support Schüco systems but can be used with any profile from any system. Schüco machines are also compatible with other software systems such as LogiKal as well as our proprietary Schüco software. Our own cutting-edge software includes SchüCal, our estimating software, and SchüCam for programming our machines but our engineering support is available for our machines no matter which systems are being processed or what software is being used.
This support is complemented by an App through which the engineering support team can see, via the device’s camera, what the operator is seeing on their machine so they can provide real time help with any issues.
The latest innovations from Schüco
At Schüco, innovation isn’t just about new technology - it’s about meeting real-world fabrication needs. Our machinery is developed in response to both technological advances and direct customer feedback: accommodating customers’ needs has to be the priority.
Some advances take the form of upgrades to existing machines. For example, our best- selling AF 310 CNC machine has recently been updated to include an LED display: a small change that makes a big difference on the factory floor, allowing the fabrication team to see at a glance, the status of the machine.
Further updates include an increase in clamping range to accommodate larger profiles, the spindle has been upgraded and extra tool pockets have been added to allow an even more diverse tooling range if required. In addition, the saw blade size can be increased to 160mm if needed.
Entirely new machines are added to the range too. Recent additions include the RX LOAD 500, incorporating innovative robot technology which, when combined with the AF 500 CNC machine, creates a complete processing unit. The robot arm loads profiles into the CNC machine for processing and then unloads the cut profiles.
Another recent innovation is the AS 100 fabrication system which combines the benefits of a continuous feed machining centre with those of a 5-axis CNC machine. This allows for uninterrupted production, reducing downtime between operations and facilitating complex cutting and drilling without the need for repositioning for cost-effective, efficient fabrication.
This year sees the launch of a new crimping machine which has already attracted a great deal of interest. This machine will ensure correct alignment every time for perfectly fixed corners, eliminating human error and reducing waste.
Optimising processes to reduce waste
Automation reduces waste by optimising the use of each profile as well as by eliminating human error. This optimisation is demonstrated by, for example, the AF 510 CNC machine which can process two different profiles at the same time. When combined with SchüCal software it can review the queued jobs on the system and pair any processes that can be carried out simultaneously, even if they are from different jobs. This not only speeds up production but also ensures as much of each profile is used as possible to minimise waste.
Looking ahead to the next generation of fabricators
Schüco is always exploring new technologies with an eye to enhancing the support we provide our partners and we have some truly revolutionary advances in development. One of these is the development of smart glasses with cameras and microphones built in, enabling our engineers to provide accurate and real-time support remotely. We also believe there are huge opportunities to increase the functionality of robots and are investigating this area.
As well as supporting skilled workers today, we think that introducing ever more advanced automation is a huge attraction for the next generation of fabricators, providing a rewarding career path for ambitious apprentices and trainees.
As fabrication technology continues to evolve, businesses that embrace automation will be best positioned to grow, adapt, and attract new talent. By integrating advanced machinery and smart software solutions, fabricators can optimise processes, reduce waste, and future-proof their operations.
Machines can’t do everything, however, and skilled operators remain at the heart of the industry, applying their expertise to high-quality craftsmanship. As Schüco continues to innovate, we remain committed to supporting our partners with cutting-edge technology and comprehensive engineering support - helping them navigate the future of fabrication with confidence.
