
PC-based control for sheet metal working



Headquarters Switzerland
Beckhoff Automation AG
End users and manufacturers of machines for sheet metal working and metal forming are faced with high demands: high productivity must be guaranteed as well as a maximum degree of individualization and high quality standards. In order to be able to produce competitively, the machines must also be optimized with regard to their footprint and energy consumption. In order to meet these requirements, modern automation technology is required, as is offered by the PC-based control specialist Beckhoff.
Modular in structure and precisely scalable to meet the performance requirements of the specific application, PC-based control is suitable for the entire range of requirements – from the single machine to the industrial linked plant. Since all functions are consistently transformed into software that runs on the Industrial PC, only one CPU is required for PLC, visualization, motion control, robotics, safety, measurement technology and condition monitoring. In combination with the direct cloud connection, not only can Industrie 4.0 concepts be realized, but every process stage can be optimized, right up to product handling. Improved production processes with tolerance minimization, increased workpiece quality, less scrap, extremely high-precision synchronization and increased output bring clear competitive advantages. The reduced control complexity associated with a reduction in the number of components ensures greater reliability and simpler maintenance of machines and plants.
In addition, there are specific benefits for the different areas of sheet metal processing: beyond the high-performance control technology, EtherCAT and EtherCAT P in particular provide for a competitive advantage in press lines. Beckhoff offers a wide range of CNC functions for cutting and welding plants. Special applications for punching and nibbling are supported by fast signal processing based on EtherCAT and EtherCAT XFC. With the software library TwinCAT 3 Hydraulic Positioning, ready-made function blocks are available for bending processes in folding, roller bending or pipe bending machines. In addition, machine manufacturers and end users can rely on Beckhoff's expertise acquired over many years of cooperation with customers in the field of sheet metal working and forming. Beckhoff offers comprehensive application support for both new plants and machine retrofits.
The high degree of integration, the speed and performance-related scalability of the Beckhoff control solution consistently lead to process optimizations and cost benefits.