Sheet metal working: a key process for carpentry and heavy industry

In the world of metal carpentry, sheet metal processing is a crucial stage, which conditions the final quality of the structural design and the efficiency of subsequent processes such as welding, assembly and finishing. Sheet metal, being used in highly demanding sectors – including the shipbuilding industry, energy, nuclear and automotive – requires accurate, reliable and safe machining, especially when it comes to chamfering, heading and edge preparation.

The technological evolution has led to the development of multifunction machines able to tackle different types of processing with a single compact system. However, despite the progress of the available solutions, the challenges to be faced remain numerous: managing complex materials, ensuring the uniformity of the bevels, respecting safety standards and ensuring high performance even on large thicknesses.

Let’s see the main advantages and criticalities related to sheet metal working and, in particular, how G.B.C. responds to these needs with a professional solution proposed by G.B.C.: the multifunctional chamfer MULTIEDGE 80.

 

Advantages and criticality in sheet metal working

Sheet metal working, especially when it comes to chamfering and edge preparation, must combine precision with repeatability. In industrial environments, achieving precise angles and constant depths is critical to the quality of welding and safety of structures.

 

Advantage	Explanation
Better adhesion in welding	A well-machined surface ensures more solid and durable joints.
Reduction of imperfections and rework	Minimizes initial defects, avoiding costly subsequent corrections.
Increasing production efficiency	Optimize time and resources, improving workflow.
Adaptability to different materials	It can also be used for special alloys or non-standard materials.

 

Despite the many benefits of using advanced technologies, there are several common challenges faced by operators in sheet metal working. One of the main difficulties concerns variations in material thickness and hardness. Sheet metal may have different physical properties, such as thickness and hardness, which are not always uniform. This phenomenon, if not handled properly, can adversely affect the quality and precision of the machining. For this reason, it is essential to use machines that can compensate for these variations, maintaining the high quality of the final result.

 

Precision and Safety: Solutions to Overcome the Challenges of Large Surface Machining

Another frequently encountered problem is the difficulty in maintaining the linearity of machining on large surfaces. When working on large plates, it is often difficult to ensure a perfectly uniform processing over the entire surface. Even small deviations can compromise the quality of the finished product, making managing large surfaces a real challenge. It is therefore essential to use technologies that can maintain control and accuracy even over large areas.

In addition, one of the most critical aspects of sheet metal working is the need to adjust processing parameters quickly and precisely. Material conditions and design specifications can vary frequently, so it is important that the operator be able to intervene promptly to change parameters such as speed, pressure or temperature. This not only optimises processing yield, but also reduces material waste and increases the overall efficiency of the production process, which is particularly important when working with tight deadlines or expensive materials.

Finally, another crucial point concerns compliance with safety regulations. Industrial processes inevitably involve risks, such as exposure to high temperatures, fine dust or the handling of heavy loads. It is therefore essential to adopt technological solutions that guarantee the protection of operators during the entire processing process. In addition, it is essential that machines are designed to comply with the applicable safety regulations, with appropriate protective devices and systems that minimise the risk of accidents.

 

MULTIEDGE 80: The multi-purpose plate beveling machine for precise and safe machining

The MULTIEDGE 80 by G.B.C. is the ideal answer for those who seek versatility, safety and high performance in sheet metal processing, even on large thicknesses and complex materials. Designed to perform standard bevels, facing, clad removal and J-bevels (R6 and R8), covers a wide operating range: sheets from 6 to 120 mm thick and diagonals up to 80 mm

Main features:

• Adjustable bevel from 0° to 90°;
• J-bevel (R6 and R8) adjustable from 0° to 30°, with quick settings thanks to the two integrated LCD displays: one for the angle and one for the depth;
• Compatibility with a wide range of materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, duplex, inconel and aluminium;
• Variable milling speed from 300 to 1500 U/min, adjustable directly from the control panel, to adapt to any material and processing;
• Three-phase electrical system (400V – 50Hz);
• Compact and versatile structure, with integrated trolley, chip conveyance and damping system that ensures smoothness and uniformity, even on imperfect surfaces;
• Sheet metal presence sensor for maximum operational safety.

Thanks to these characteristics, the MULTIEDGE 80 is ideal for heavy carpentry, shipbuilding and energy sectors where it is necessary to deal with thick sheets and high-strength materials.

 

Flexibility in every field: from welding to edge preparation

The MULTIEDGE 80 is particularly appreciated for its ability to adapt to different machining processes, from simple bevel to more complex heading, up to the J-work required in the nuclear and oil industry. Its use is also easily extended in fields such as the construction of tanks and cisterns, welded structures for large industrial plants, cutting and chamfering for naval and aerospace components. The ability to adjust parameters even during machining allows operators to quickly find the most efficient configuration for each workpiece being machined, improving final quality and minimizing scrap.

 

 

Why choose MULTIEDGE 80 for sheet metal processing

Choosing MULTIEDGE 80 means making a strategic investment in efficiency, quality and reliability. This machine represents a technologically advanced solution for sheet metal processing, thanks to its precision and high performance characteristics, which ensure consistent and professional results even in the most demanding production environments.

Designed in full compliance with the highest safety standards, MULTIEDGE 80 guarantees maximum protection for the operator during all phases of use. Its robust yet versatile structure allows it to work a wide range of materials, without the need for structural modifications or complex adaptations. This makes it ideal for those who need productive flexibility, without compromises on the quality of the result.

Another strong point is the particular focus on the user experience: MULTIEDGE 80 is designed to simplify each operational phase, minimizing downtime and increasing overall productivity. The intuitive interface and automated features allow even less experienced operators to quickly gain full control of the process.

Whether you operate in a series production environment or manage custom machining, both in the civil and industrial sector, G.B.C. MULTIEDGE 80 is the ideal choice to tackle with efficiency and safety every challenge in sheet metal processing.

 

Innovation and productivity with G.B.C.: contact us for advice on MULTIEDGE 80

The transition to a more efficient, precise and safe carpentry also depends on choosing the right tools. The MULTIEDGE 80 represents a decisive step towards cutting-edge sheet metal processing, able to combine technology, performance and reliability.

Contact us today for more information or to request a technical demonstration. Discover how G.B.C. can help you improve the efficiency of your industrial processes with advanced solutions tailored to every need.