Lantek, the Force Behind

Lantek’s multi-vendor strategy for its sheet metal software is one of the reasons that it is a pioneer in the industry and is leading the charge into digitization. The company works closely with over 150 OEM partners to implement the special features in each individual machine, model and technology. This has been the company’s policy for over 35 years, and it now supports more than 4500 different machine types in one system.

Sheet metal manufactures often have a mix of machine technologies such as, laser, plasma, punching, and waterjet (additionally, there may be a mix of machine suppliers). The complexity of integrating all these variables into one system to create the nests and CNC cutting programs and, manage the production throughout the factory, is where Lantek specializes, bringing practical, step by step digitization to manufacturers of all sizes.

Frequently, our engineers find manufacturers that have several different CAM systems, each one geared specifically for an individual machine. This creates some significant problems in day-to-day operations and in escalating productivity and profitability.

1. Each system requires a person skilled in it use, creating staffing shortages and limiting the flexibility of the workforce.
2. Where production demands require a change to which machine is to be used to manufacture a job, switching and reprogramming to move the job to an alternative machine is time consuming and difficult.
3. More and more, manufacturing systems need to be integrated to link every aspect of the factory such as quotations and sales, production management, suppliers, accounting systems, as well as for the generation of management and quality reports. With multiple systems, this type of integration is virtually impossible.
4. The path towards digital manufacturing is blocked without properly integrated systems. The next step for manufacturers to remain competitive is a move to integration, starting with quotations which are linked to historical data, current material prices and accurate cutting times and, in easy steps, moving on to traceability, stock control, remnant management and invoicing through an MES and ERP system designed for the industry.

One of the main stumbling blocks to achieving a step change in productivity is concern about taking making the first move into an integrated system and working towards digitization. But in the words of Yoda from Star Wars “Fear is the path to the dark side.”

Lantek has 21 offices in 15 countries and its software is used in more than 100 countries worldwide, supported by its dealer network. It has the experience, skills and capability to help manufacturers, wherever they are and whatever machines and technologies they are using, to optimise their production at their own pace. May the Force be with you!