New TRUMPF Slat Cleaner Makes Hard Slag History

Higher power laser systems can produce slag that’s harder and tougher to remove // New TruTool creates simpler, more efficient and ergonomic approach to removing slag // TRUMPF’s TSC 200 slat cleaner is now available in North America // Can be used with all standard laser cutting machines

Farmington, Conn., October 21, 2024 – Laser cutting machines with particularly high-powered lasers can produce slag that becomes so hard that most of the currently-available slat cleaners on the market struggle to remove it. TRUMPF tackled this challenge and developed the TruTool TSC 200, a slat cleaning tool that overcomes the issue effectively while also making work simpler, more efficient, and ergonomic.

Optional feed support
When the slag is especially thick or the material mix is particularly tough, the cleaning process can require more user effort. To make the process easier for operators, TRUMPF has developed an optional feed support that can be mounted directly on the TruTool TSC 200 and is driven by the slat cleaner motor. This unit pulls the slat cleaner across the slats, greatly reducing operator effort.

Patented cleaning tools
TRUMPF’s new cleaning method removes the slag in a two-step roughing and finishing process. The developers equipped the cleaning tools with serrated and continuous cutting edges. The rotating tools are arranged to the right and left of the slat. The serrated cutting edges break up the slag, while the continuous cutting edges scrape it off. This process runs continuously, allowing cleaning to proceed at a speed of 13 to 32 feet per minute. The innovative cleaning tools are available in two versions, one for slat thicknesses of between 0.080 and 0.120 inches and another for cleaning 0.120 to 0.150-inch-thick slats. All tools have the same high resistance to wear as they are made from hardened material. Another notable feature is the wear markings, designed as notches in two locations, which function like the indicators found in tire treads. If they are no longer visible, the tool is worn out and must be rotated 180 degrees. This ability to rotate further extends the life of these replaceable tools. Thanks to a quick-change system utilizing lock buttons, the process is fast and simple.

Excellent protection for motor and gearbox
The new slat cleaner’s high performance is made possible by a powerful 1,700-watt motor and robust gearbox with integrated slipper clutch. This clutch protects the motor from overload situations. The drive components are housed in separate chambers and are protected from slag and dust particles without the need for any additional seals.

Ergonomics and easy maintenance
The intuitive handling is further enhanced by the front handle, which allows the machine to be easily placed on the pallet for cleaning. Position markings on the housing cover and handle help operators find the position of the slat to be cleaned. The polyoxymethylene roller is highly practical, as it is used to transport the slat cleaner to the laser cutting system. The roller does not need to be removed before starting to clean the slats.

The TSC 200’s smart box is mounted on the handlebar with an off switch and LED indicators for maintenance intervals. The smart box ensures that the operator receives timely notifications when service to the slat cleaner is required.

TRUMPF’s TSC 200 slat cleaner is now available in North America, and the portable power tool can be used with all standard laser cutting machines.

About TRUMPF

TRUMPF is a high-tech company offering manufacturing solutions in the fields of machine tools and laser technology. It drives digital connectivity in manufacturing through consulting, platform products, and software. TRUMPF is one of the technology and market leaders in highly versatile machine tools for sheet metal processing, and in the field of industrial lasers. In 2023/24, TRUMPF employed approximately 18,550 people and generated sales of around 5.2 billion euros (preliminary figures). With about 90 companies, the TRUMPF Group is represented in Europe, North America, South America and Asia. The company has production facilities in Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, China, the Czech Republic, the United States and Mexico.

TRUMPF power tools

TRUMPF has been making power tools for sheet metal processing since 1934. They laid the groundwork for the TRUMPF’s extensive sheet metal expertise and continue to set innovative standards in their market segment today. The company's current product range includes power tools primarily used for cutting and joining sheet metal, as well as for forming welding edges. The company also supplies a range of special tools for cutting sandwich panels and cleaning laser slats. TRUMPF's portable, easy-to-use tools are used around the globe by customers from both trade and industry.

TRUMPF TruTool TSC 200 Slat Cleaner

Equipped with new technology, the TruTool TSC 200 can also easily remove hard slag from slats, which can form when using powerful fiber lasers. (Source: TRUMPF)

Simpler, ergonomic Design

TRUMPF's new TruTool TSC 200 slat cleaner is equipped with a 1,700-watt motor and customized gearbox. An integrated slipping clutch protects the motor from overload. (Source: TRUMPF)

Closeup of Cleaning Tools

The cleaning tools use a roughing/finishing principle. Serrated cutting edges break up the slag, then a continuous cutting edge scrapes off the slag. (Source: TRUMPF)

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