In modern laser cutting systems, compressed air is an invisible yet indispensable force. It not only cools sensitive components but also performs key tasks such as securing workpieces, moving components, and protecting machines from dirt and moisture. An optimally designed compressed air supply is therefore crucial for efficiency, process reliability, and quality. Haimerl Lasertechnik's example demonstrates how precise requirements assessment and the right system technology—such as those from KAESER—lead to a reliable, energy-saving, and standard-compliant solution.
HAIMERL Lasertechnik GmbH
Haimerl Lasertechnik primarily produces sheet metal parts made of aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and also steel. These components are typically used in mechanical engineering, but are primarily used in thin sheet technology. Sheet thicknesses range from 1 to 6 mm. The Leonberg-based facility boasts an extensive Trumpf machine park for a wide variety of application processes, such as scratch-free punching and laser cutting, threaded stud pressing, bending with very high precision requirements, joining processes using laser welding and manual TIG/MAG welding, and the associated assembly of components.
Challenge
Compressed air is required throughout production at Haimerl Lasertechnik as a sealing air to prevent dirt or moisture from penetrating the machines and systems. Compressed air is also used to hold the material being cut in place and keep it stable. Automated movements also rely on pneumatic systems. For example, compressed air is responsible for raising or lowering the cutting head or moving workpieces between different processing stations.
In laser cutting processes, compressed air also cools the nozzle. The nozzle through which the laser beam is directed can become very hot. Pneumatic systems are used to direct cooling air through the nozzle to prevent overheating and extend the nozzle's service life.
Solution statement
- The initial basis for the redesign of the compressed air station was a compressed air consumption measurement. Only an accurate determination of the actual compressed air demand enables a customized solution for the customer.
- The compressed air station at Haimerl Lasertechnik, designed to meet the necessary compressed air requirements, consists of a KAESER SK 25 screw compressor with a rated motor power of 15 kW and a free air delivery of 2.5 m³/min.
- The new compressed air treatment concept, which complies with ISO 8573-1 and manufacturer specifications for laser cutting, is based on an energy-saving KAESER TC 31 SECOTEC refrigeration dryer. This ensures that dry compressed air is always generated.
- A KAESER cyclone separator and a KAESER microfilter combination (F46KA/KE) consisting of a KAESER microfilter and a KAESER activated carbon filter ensure reliable condensate treatment and compliance with the compressed air quality class.
- The high-quality oil-water separator model Aquamat CF6 is also integrated into the KAESER compressed air station and supports condensate treatment – directly at the source.
Customer benefit
- The close collaboration between KAESER and the FILCOM GmbH team enabled the successful implementation of the project.
- The FILCOM service team independently handles the maintenance and service of the system, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted compressed air supply.
- Communication with FILCOM GmbH is always smooth and very open and personable.
- And what is even more important for Haimerl Lasertechnik: The promise of system availability was kept, giving the customer a completely positive feeling and confidence in the future.