A good machining solution

Buying a flatbed router from local manufacturer Proform CNC Ltd has proven to be the best decision for Matt Fuehrer who took over long established Dunedin joinery business Mearns & Leckie Ltd a couple of years ago.

“We had been cutting mainly by using a dimension saw and we couldn’t keep up” recalls Matt. “We had the space, some 770 square metres, so we decided to move the way of CNC.” The firm who are members of the Master Joiners, make a range of kitchens, household joinery, white boxes and timber joinery. Matt saw they needed to move to another level to keep up with demand. About a year ago they came across local manufacturer Proform CNC Ltd based in Upper Hutt.

“We needed an entry level CNC flatbed router to get us started” says Matt. “We were looking for value for money at the same time and the Proform range fitted the bill for us.’ After discussions with Rob Hutchings from Proform and some demonstrations they eventually bought a Fusion ATC 25/13L CNC Router. Matt comments “This machine did everything we wanted and more. Importantly all its features are packed into a small footprint in the factory which is really practical for us: more room for other things!”

The solid gantry style machining centre can process solid wood, MDF and particle board panels along with plastics, aluminium and composite materials. It is heavy duty with solid steel machine frame construction. “A real plus for us was the automatic twelve tool changer which Rob recommended we add to the machine. It is really adaptable allowing us to use up to 28 tools that allow us to use solid timber cutting tooling as well. This has made things much easier for us saving time and money with it’s speed and accuracy” Matt says.

The flatbed handles standard 2440mm by 1220mm boards with ease. “We use two programmes, Pro100 for the design element and Enroute for optimization. We have in fact upgraded the Pro100 to give us more control. This is a reliable, cost effective machining solution for our operation.” The business currently employs some eight staff including Matt. “The last year since we got this machine has been a revelation for us: more production, better turnaround times and greater profitability. This machine also can form part of a nested based operation if need be and a note about Proform CNC Ltd - a really good team who give really good service.”

For more about Mearns & Leckie Ltd contact Matt Fuehrer on 027 489 2024, email joiners@ mearnandsleckie.co.nz or visit them at www.mearnsandleckie.co.nz