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Plate processing: Choosing a style and partner
Structural steel fabricators often require between 10% and 15% of plate connections depending on project design. Base plates, end plates, stiffeners, shear tabs and washers are all examples of parts generally made from plate steel. Investing in a plate processing machine lets the fabricator have more control of their plate inventory, just in time availability of parts and easier control of reporting to both engineers of record and in-house ERP software. With so many choices out there, how should you determine what type of machine to invest in?
There are two basic types of plate processing machines:
Gantry style machines
Machines with stationary rails and cutting surface with a moveable gantry, which traverses the plate in both length and width to produce parts from plate stock.
Gantry style advantages
- Versatile machine to run a full nest of more complex parts
- Larger products, runs both small and large parts equally well
- Optimal productivity from half-capacity - load/unload half of the cutting table while the other half is processing
- Bevel capability on some models
- Stock material on; finished parts automatically unloaded
Passthrough style machines
Machines with a stationary gantry and material conveying through the machine to be processed.
Passthrough style advantages
- Stock material on; finished parts automatically unloaded
- Smaller footprint with all operations contained inside a small area
- Max productivity; performs better with smaller parts
- Reduced material handling when supplied with a cross transfer to load automatically as a standalone machine or part of an MSI system for full automation
- Bevel capability on some models
Other features are also available that could benefit either style of plate processing machine. Some gantry plate machines also come with a drill spindle that can further reduce operational costs by removing the need for extra material handling to a secondary operation.
Ultimately, it’s up to the fabricator to decide which style of machine gives them the best return on investment and performs best in their operation. Choose a partner wisely and they’ll help work you through the process and stand by with service, parts and consumables. The right supplier will work with both your detailing software and ERP software to control inventory and part production accuracy, on schedule and well reported.