The AT system automatically arranges the clamps or vacuum cups on the machine bed into the optimum position. All the operator has to do is load up pieces for processing and then the machine takes over, with cutting, moulding, milling, profiling, boring and tenoning potentially all undertaken in a single cycle. No more manual handling is needed.
“Using conventional systems, most CNC machines are only working 50% of the shift, with the rest of the time taken with setting up,” said Mr Corlett. “The AT can cut set-up time from 10 minutes to 10 seconds so, working on an average process cycle of 10 minutes, you can double output.”
The AT system can be used in conjunction with any Masterwood CNC centre from the Project 500 up and, with five already sold in the UK and 10 more sales expected from W6, the company expects it to make “quite an impact” in the market.
“The extra cost is £30,000-50,000, but you can achieve payback in a matter of months,” said Mr Corlett.
Masterwood also focused on its “comprehensive software offer”, including the recently launched Master Sliding Sash CAD/CAM package for designing and producing double-hung sliding sash windows.
