Beckhoff’s extensive range of technologies and solutions underscores its position as a highly experienced partner and solution provider for a wide variety of machine tool categories and performance classes. It’s been that way ever since the company was founded in 1980. In addition to solutions for milling, turning, and drilling machines, countless customers worldwide are leveraging PC-based control to develop and implement their innovative machining processes and ensure they maintain their technological edge. This includes applications such as laser cladding, laser cutting systems, EDM machines, and additive manufacturing.
Current applications
High-tech laser cutting system relies on powerful IPC platform and EtherCAT: Maximum precision and speed in laser cutting applications
The outstanding beam quality of the fiber laser has positioned it as the technology of choice for fine sheet metal cutting as it allows for precise cuts and very narrow kerf widths while maintaining high contour speeds. In order to guarantee these parameters, Polish manufacturer Power-Tech relies on the use of fiber lasers and powerful automation technology from Beckhoff in its Eagle brand laser cutting machines.
Laser cladding with TwinCAT CNC: High speed and precision perfectly aligned in a software-controlled solution
In contemporary applications, laser cladding is often used for coating rotationally symmetrical components. Ponticon GmbH, based in Wiesbaden, Germany, is expanding its range of applications to include coating and additive manufacturing of any geometries with the pE3D system. The requirements regarding the precise control and coordination of the tripod, rotary/swivel table, and laser would have been difficult to implement without TwinCAT CNC, EtherCAT, and eXtreme Fast Control Technology (XFC) from Beckhoff.
Open PC-based control and drive technology in additive manufacturing processes: For high-precision, high-speed 3D printing with aluminum alloys
As a globally operating family business, GROB-Werke has been developing systems and machine tools for customers including the most renowned automotive manufacturers for over 95 years. This period has been characterized not only by technical innovations, but also by the opening up of new markets. A prime example is the field of additive manufacturing, for which the first prototype machines were developed in 2019. With the new GMP300 Liquid Metal Printing machine, which is automated with PC-based control, wires made of aluminum alloys can now be used cost-effectively and efficiently in the printing process to achieve precise and fast 3D printing.
TwinCAT CNC and drive technology in machining applications: High-precision part machining with CNC robots
Anyone who believes that jointed-arm robots lack the precision required to machine hard materials has clearly not yet come across toolcraft. Daniel Distler and Andreas Bauer use TwinCAT CNC and PC-based control from Beckhoff to implement robot cells for precise machining of components – including solid blocks of silicon carbide and gray cast iron.