Rudi Metzler GmbH, a specialist in flat roofs, façades and sheet metal solutions, has opted for pioneering sheet metal processing technology with the new Smartcut 52.30-2 from RAS. The investment not only relieves the burden on production in the Black Forest through higher cutting quality, but also through smart operation, clever additional functions and an impressively compact design.
RAS Reinhardt Maschinenbau GmbH
Rudi Metzler GmbH can look back on over a hundred years of history. Since 1900, the company has stood for quality in the roofing trade. Today, the family business employs around 80 people at four locations in Hinterzarten, Herbolzheim, Villingen-Schwenningen and Heidelberg.
The core competence is clearly in the flat roof sector, which accounts for over 80 percent of the project volume. Metzler also offers solutions for façades, pitched roofs, crane work and sheet metal work. The in-house sheet metal workshop in Hinterzarten plays a central role in this: around 30 percent of all projects involve sheet metal work, and the trend is rising, particularly in façade construction and modern roof systems.
When experience reaches the limits of capacity
Metzler had already been relying on a RAS oscillating shear for many years, which was reliable and durable in daily use. For over two decades, it consistently cut materials such as 2 mm thick aluminum and demanding composite materials, always under high loads.
However, as projects became increasingly complex and the variety of materials grew, the tried-and-tested machine gradually reached its limits. “Productivity was limited because we increasingly had to rework and could no longer meet the cycle times,” explains Gerson Wehrle, Member of the Management Board. “Rejects also increased, which had a significant impact in times of high material prices. But it must also be said that we have been using it continuously in the upper performance range for years and it has reliably kept up with this.” So the decision was clear: it was time for a technological generation change.
RAS Reinhardt Maschinenbau GmbH
Decision with a sense of proportion
Although various manufacturers were examined, RAS Reinhardt Maschinenbau GmbH was once again chosen. For those responsible at Metzler, the price-performance ratio was the decisive factor, combined with the positive experience of two decades of reliable use. “RAS offers long-lasting quality. The machines are well thought-out, easy to maintain and simple to operate. Other suppliers couldn’t keep up. Set-up, installation and maintenance are also quite simple.”
In particular, RAS’s personal customer service, which is available at all times, was once again a decisive factor. “We were never put off and communication was always direct and solution-oriented.”
The decision was made in favor of the Smartcut model with a cutting length of 3100 mm. Modern in technology, compact in design. A clear advantage when space is limited in the workshop.
Better cutting. Easier to work with.
Since the commissioning of the new swing-cut shears, everyday life in the sheet metal workshop has improved noticeably. The consistently high cutting quality and exact repeat accuracy reduce waste and increase efficiency. Particularly noteworthy is the intuitive user interface, which makes it easy to get started. “The operation is really self-explanatory. Switch on the machine, select the cutting program and off you go – in less than a minute.”
An integrated piece counter provides clarity in order picking. It supports the team in planning for different construction sites. It is always clear how many parts have already been processed.
In addition, integrated cutting line lighting makes precise work easier. “I can see exactly where the blade is coming down, which is a real plus in terms of precision,” emphasizes Wehrle. The sorting function with selectable ejection to the front or rear has also proven its worth in day-to-day work. Depending on requirements, the sheets are processed directly or stacked automatically.
Handling has also been optimized. “The cut sheets fall directly onto the stacking trolley, which saves travel and time. It is advisable to work with at least two trolleys so that we can process different commissions at the same time. That way, one trolley is always free and the process continues to run smoothly.”
Technology that makes everyday life easier
In addition to its technical performance, the new machine also offers tangible ergonomic benefits. Two table extensions allow large-format sheets to be placed safely and conveniently. This special function was not available on the predecessor model and is now considered indispensable in everyday use.
The Smartcut also shows particular strengths when it comes to conical cutting. Two additional tilting stops make this task considerably easier and eliminate the need for complex intermediate solutions.
Last but not least, an effective hold-down device prevents sheets from kinking during the cut. In combination with the self-cleaning angle stop and the low-wear rubber strip, the result is a clean, mark-free cutting process with excellent results.
“The new SMARTcut has more than met our expectations,” summarizes Gerson Wehrle.
Background
RAS Reinhardt Maschinenbau GmbH is one of the world’s leading suppliers of innovative machines for sheet metal processing. Based in Sindelfingen, the company has stood for the highest quality and technical precision made in Germany for over 85 years. The broad portfolio includes folding machines, swing-cutting shears, forming machines and automated and customized manufacturing solutions for a wide range of industries worldwide. With a strong focus on quality, reliability and technological innovation, RAS delivers solutions that meet the highest requirements.
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