Simple control

Machine control in metalworking, specifically the operation of band saws, can certainly be a challenge. If the control system is too complicated, precision and safety suffer the most. MEBA band saw controls are designed to be as simple and intuitive to operate as possible. This means that they are designed for user-friendliness and efficiency. Innovative control technology and specific safety features ensure fast, precise cutting results. Thanks to the guided job input and easy-to-understand visualized programming, you can set up the saw quickly and get started easily. Only a few steps are required to make the desired cuts, as the cutting values are calculated automatically.

1 What is the importance of an easy-to-operate control system for band saws?

No less than the quality of the cut and therefore the quality of the end product depends on the precise control of metal band saws. The easier a metal band saw is to use, the better. Intuitive operation and precise control options, such as those offered by MEBA, make it possible to organize the work process efficiently and save time. The quality of the cut is increased. And even with complex projects, user-friendly control ensures precise cuts. Saw cuts can be made quickly and efficiently with MEBA machines in just a few simple steps. Both beginners and experienced professionals benefit from this clear and simple handling. Optimum adjustment of the machine extends the service life of the saw blades and minimizes wear. The MEBA control system enables both single and automatic cuts. It also offers the option of using manual functions for material handling and other machine functions individually. All important controls can be operated at all times. How is the MEBA control system structured? Here we would like to go a little deeper into the technology and give you some background knowledge on how the control system at MEBA is structured. There are various HMI panels in different sizes, so that every user receives the optimum user interface for their requirements. In addition, the controller has a scalable controller that allows you to customize the performance. The MEBA controller uses the industry-standard IEC 61131-3 programming language, so you can be sure that you are using a reliable and proven programming language. The MEBA control system also scores points with its modular software and scalable hardware. This allows you to customize the system according to your needs and keep it expandable. The MEBA control system not only offers you a user-friendly interface, but also maximum flexibility in adapting to your individual requirements.

2 What is the difference in the operation of manual saws and automatic band saws?

MEBA has a wide range of metal band saws in its product range, from small manual saws for the workshop area to large automatic machines, integrated into networks and connected to material handling systems. The user can choose between a variety of straight-cut or miter bandsaws with different cutting ranges. What is ultimately the right saw for each user is very individual. If you look at the controls again, there are of course differences here too. Manual saws are controlled via switches, buttons and potentiometers, while the automatic saws offer a touch panel with a wide range of options. The vending machines have the advantage of a network connection for program management and creation. They also offer OPC_UA production data acquisition, various infeed and outfeed variants, various interfaces for upstream and downstream processes and, finally, complete digitization by the MEBA NC Server. This control technology opens up completely new possibilities for operating and monitoring the machines. Complex programs can be created and executed in just a few simple steps to perform precise cuts. The decision between manual saws and automatic saws ultimately depends on individual requirements. But it is also important for users who previously thought, “Automation or digitalization – my business is too small for that”: Small machines can be so incredibly valuable and make work so much easier, especially in smaller businesses.

3 But what are the advantages of simple bandsaw operation?

As mentioned at the very beginning of the blog post, the machine control is basically the basis for a precise cut and an optimum end result. The simple handling makes it possible to control the cut exactly and thus achieve precise results. An increasingly important factor is the issue of skilled workers. If the machine is easy to operate and easy to understand, even when the sawing tasks are more complex, this offers enormous flexibility in terms of employee deployment. Employees from other areas or new employees are quickly trained if the machines are understandable and easy to operate. This creates maximum flexibility when it comes to deploying internal staff. The user-friendly operation also has a positive influence on the working atmosphere, as work is easier. Compared to manual operation, automatic control offers the advantage of consistent accuracy and speed. Optimum adjustment of the metal band saw increases productivity and minimizes material waste. The control of metal saws is therefore a decisive factor for successful and professional results in metal processing and for the flexible, efficient deployment of employees in the company.

4 Here are a few more tips for optimum adjustment and handling of the metal band saw

We have now taken a close look at the control system itself. Here we want to get a little more practical and give you specific metal sawing tips to use your MEBA saw efficiently. Three general bandsaw tips: 1) Save recurring jobs to save time when entering them. 2) Use central functions such as Step by Step, Auto Pause and various operating modes. MEBA ensures that all its products offer user-oriented solutions and features. This means that such central functions are definitely not “nice to have”, but have been developed specifically for your benefit. 3) Create templates for recurring materials to simplify the workflow in the long term. Overall, we strongly recommend regular bandsaw maintenance and care in order to maintain their performance at the same high level. All components of the saw should be checked regularly and serviced if necessary. This way you can ensure that the saw works perfectly and always delivers precise cutting results. It is also important to take care of the saw blade maintenance, i.e. to clean and sharpen the saw blades regularly. The recommended saw blade change should also be carried out. MEBA offers a wide range of top quality hard and bi-metal band saw blades. To ensure their longevity, make sure to saw in new bandsaw blades with the “automatic sawing-in” function. You should also activate the “gentle sawing in” and “gentle sawing out” functions for gentle working. Activating “free stroke” also protects the saw blade by retracting the material briefly after sawing. The optional cutting progress control ensures a clean cut. And last but not least, you should definitely use the “predictive maintenance” function and enter the exact material dimensions and shapes to ensure good sawing results. If you have any specific questions about operating instructions, please feel free to ask your MEBA team.

5. observe the safety instructions for band saws

Occupational safety in metalworking is of course a major issue – or rather: safety is the top priority. Metal bandsaw safety is also part of the control system. It is essential to observe the safety precautions at all times. Protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles are mandatory to avoid injuries. Check for damage before starting the saw to prevent accidents. And in the best case scenario, you use the digital options that warn you in good time in the event of a malfunction, which may also be a safety risk. Another important safety factor is the correct positioning of the workpiece to prevent it from slipping during the sawing process. Conscious handling of the machine and compliance with safety measures are crucial for a smooth workflow and protect against unforeseen incidents.

Conclusion:

In summary, it can be said that the simple control of band saws is crucial for efficient work. The differences between manual and automatic operation were explained, as well as tips on how to set the saw optimally and important safety features during operation. User-friendly operation enables precise saw cuts and offers a wide range of applications. It ensures fast saw cuts, can be operated by beginners to professionals, offers single and automatic cuts as well as easy handling of material handling and machine functions. MEBA saws impress with guided order entry, easy-to-understand programming and symbols that require just a few steps to cut. The control system is based on an HMI panel with a scalable controller and modular software. The difference in the operation of manual saws and automatic saws lies in the type of control elements and the various options of the touch panel on automatic saws. Overall, the intuitive operation and control of MEBA machines offers numerous advantages for efficient work and precise results.