Following the success of AMADA’s ATC machines, with more than 1000 units installed globally, AMADA has expanded the company’s unique ATC technology to its mid-range line-up for the first time. Previously only available on high-end press brakes such as the AMADA HG-ATC and its predecessor the HD-ATC, the new AMADA HRB-ATC mid-range model has been well received by European customers after the launch at the end of June 2021, with more than forty customers having already placed orders.
AMADA’s HRB-ATC features a full size ATC, offering exactly the same number of tool storage racks as the company’s high-end HG-ATC press brake. The new machine comes with a package of AMADA tools based on an assessment of the customer’s manufacturing requirements. Importantly, the HRB-ATC is completely compatible with AMADA AFH/Promecam standard tool sets. As a result, any existing customer using these tools can load them manually to the new machine if desired.
A CNC press brake with ATC capability brings many advantages to companies that want to increase the amount of time their press brake is engaged in actual bending activities. The ATC can reduce set-up times by up to 80% in comparison with an operator loading a tool manually, which is a clear benefit for subcontractors or companies that undertake several tool layout changes a day. Additionally, whilst the ATC is functioning, the operator can simultaneously complete other tasks, increasing overall efficiency.
The presence of the ATC and its rapid set-up potential makes the new press brake particularly ideal for those processing small batch sizes. Subcontract fabricators serving markets such as refrigeration, kitchen equipment, retail display, furniture and construction, for instance, will certainly benefit.
Customer advantages also arrive from the reverse punch system. The AMADA ATC is the only solution on the market that can reverse tools automatically. As a further benefit, where the operator needs to use special tools or lengths that the ATC cannot load itself, the HRB-ATC is equipped with a hydraulic clamping system for both punch and die that significantly accelerates the manual loading of such tools.
Among other important machine features is automatic crowning – compensating for deflections in the upper beam and lower bed when pressure is applied – which comes as standard to boost precision for users.
Notable options available to customers include the AMADA Bi system for in-cycle angle measurement and adjustment. Adopting this solution helps to ensure the elimination of scrap parts, a feature that is particularly useful for companies processing small batches or expensive materials.
Also available as an option is the automatic sliding foot pedal. When a program has several bending stations along the beam length, there is no longer any need to keep relocating the foot pedal manually. It is not uncommon for some press brake operators to move their foot pedal 100 times a day, which over a year equates to a lot of wasted time. AMADA’s sliding foot pedal means relocation takes place automatically, boosting productivity
Early adopters of the HRB-ATC have been positive about the flexibility and simplicity of the machine. The HRB-ATC is completely compatible with AMADA AFH/Promecam standard tooling, which allows manual tool loading when required. The large AMNC 3i touchscreen 3D control, with the new ‘Lite’ mode, offers further improvements to further deskill the bending process and simplify the introduction of new employees.
