The world’s largest and most advanced aluminium extruded profile bending machine is now en route to its new home in the Netherlands. Kersten, a metal bending specialist, has invested in this state-of-the-art CNC aluminium bending machine to expand its capabilities. The company is launching another high-tech facility dedicated to 2D and 3D aluminium profile bending and the processing of non-ferrous extruded and rolled profiles.
The AL-5s is the largest CNC aluminium profile bending machine ever constructed. Powered entirely by servo-electric drives, it handles every aluminium extrusion size currently manufactured worldwide.
This groundbreaking machine expands design possibilities for engineers and architects—especially those working on transportation systems and architectural structures. It enables the realization of complex bending tasks that were previously unachievable.
Equipped with a full Schneider Motion Control servo system, the AL-5s performs 2D and 3D bends, as well as spiral and twisted profiles. It delivers precision and flexibility unmatched by any other aluminium bending machine available today.
Machine capability
Variable centres up to 1500mm enable the optimum bending positions for the section. Too often smaller bending centres are used to the detriment of the section due to the increased crushing caused.
Twisting of sections
Equipped with the World’s largest section twisting device, profiles can be twisted along the length to produce spirals and aerodynamic forms for high speed transport solutions.
Hollow section internal support and drive system
Sections can be supported internally with a mandrel and using a servo controlled booster the section can be driven over the mandrel. This enables a tighter fitting mandrel to be used and also a lighter grip on the section which retains the finish quality for visible surfaces
Safety system
Along with its high capacity, ensuring operator and nearby colleague safety was essential for this new machine. The team developed and tested a light curtain system that allows the machine to run automatically but pauses immediately if someone enters the area.
New machines that perform unusual bends often attract interest, with people wanting to see and touch the parts being bent. This safety system makes the AL-5s the safest machine in the world. Originally designed for an automotive supplier in North America, the team further improved the safety curtain specifically for the AL-5s.
Multi-axis side support rolls
Operators should curve sections free of twist. Asymmetric sections, in particular, tend to twist because of their geometry. Kersten uses servo-controlled side support rolls that move in 4 axes with 0.02mm accuracy. This setup gives Kersten greater control over the section than ever before.
Energy Efficiency
Servo electric bending machines typically consume much less power than fully hydraulic systems. The AL-5s combines a servo electric drive with hydraulic bending power. To reduce energy use, the hydraulic pump features a system that saves an estimated 50% of energy during downtime.
For complex, large-scale, or full-service bending projects, contact Kersten directly at one of their service locations or reach out to a local sales engineer.
Kersten Bending Group Contacts
https://www.kersteneurope.com/en/contact
Kersten Europe Aluminium
