Perfect subcontract solution for high-precision five-axis laser cutting and welding

SMF UK, a leading specialist in precision sheet metal, laser cutting and fabrication, is further strengthening its already formidable portfolio of high-end machine tools by investing in a new TRUMPF TruLaser Cell 7040. Able to perform both 3D laser cutting and 3D welding, the machine is now in situ at the company’s state-of-the-art 30,000 ft² facility in Leicester. The impressive TRUMPF TruLaser Cell 7040 provides the perfect subcontract solution for any company that requires high-precision five-axis cutting and/or welding.

Offering decades of experience in sheet metal fabrication, SMF UK’s specialist engineers have a particular expertise in designing solutions for a wide range of industries, including architecture, automotive, electrical and medical, to list but a few. However, this highly progressive company loves a challenge and prides itself on transparent pricing, on-time deliveries and partnership working. Whether a customer has detailed instructions, drawings and specifications - or simply a concept that needs fabricating - SMF UK can help.

Despite plenty of success and strong growth since the company’s formation in 1990, SMF UK appreciates the need to evolve in line with industry demands.

“At one point in time we did a lot of straightforward laser cutting and folding, but it didn’t provide much market differentiation and, with the emergence of competitors in low-cost economies, we felt the need to diversify into making actual products for customers,” explains Steve Morrison, Managing Director at SMF UK. “By way of example, today we make chassis that form part of access lifting platforms fitted to the back of pick-up trucks.”

While family-run SMF UK has all the usual sheet metal cutting, forming and fabrication capabilities on site, it is the company’s more diverse investments that set the company apart from others. Adding high-end machines like a CNC panel bender and an automated TRUMPF tube laser has led to a raft of new contracts, prompting the company to think about how else to embellish its machine repertoire.

“One capability missing from our portfolio was 3D work, hence our investment in the TRUMPF TruLaser Cell 7040, which can cut and weld in five axes,” says Mr Morrison.

The modular TruLaser Cell 7040 is a truly flexible machine for large 3D jobs. Those taking advantage can tap into benefits such as cost-effective production, excellent process reliability and the finest component quality.

“Speculative investments have worked out well for us previously and we’re convinced the TruLaser Cell 7040 will be the same; essentially we are introducing five-axis work into the subcontract market,” says Mr Morrison. “Any companies with requirements in 3D cutting and/or welding can benefit, and we’ll happily meet enquiries with a highly competitive quote. Our team here at SMF UK specialises in high-precision small-to-medium batch work, including 1-offs – our new TruLaser Cell 7040 is the ideal solution for needs of this type.”

The company has an ongoing commitment to invest in new machinery and equipment as its customer expectations and technical requirements change. SMF UK is proud to have some of the latest laser cutters, press brakes, robot bending systems and welding cells at its disposal to support this ethos.

“We have a really good working relationship with TRUMPF that spans over 20 years,” states Mr Morrison. “Other TRUMPF machines on site include a TruBend 7036 Cell Edition Robot press brake cell, a TruArc Weld 1000 automated welding cell and a TruMark Station laser marking cell, as well as TRUMPF TruLaser flat-bed (2D) laser cutters.”

SMF has far more machines than people, a strategy that is both efficient and economical for the company and its customers, without any compromise in quality. SMF UK’s entire way of working is set up to help clients manufacture quality products.

“What our customers tell us they like best about working with SMF UK is the partnership approach we bring to a project,” concludes Mr Morrison. “We help our clients solve problems, troubleshoot issues and develop cost-effective solutions to meet the project’s requirements. If you want to work with a business that cares about developing long-term professional relationships, come to SMF UK.”