Focused and precise

Scansonic MI GmbH specializes in optical systems for robot-controlled laser processing. The modules of the high-tech company in Berlin are equipped with special ROBOFLEX cables from HELUKABEL. These cables can withstand mechanical stresses such as bending and torsion, making them ideal for use in industrial robots.

Laser processing is commonplace in many industries today – and for good reasons: welding, soldering, cutting or laser hardening using focused laser beams is cleaner, faster and more precise than with most other production technologies. Lasers are especially popular where quality and appearance play a major role – for example when connecting visible parts in the automotive industry.

To fulfill the diverse and rigorous tasks of modern production plants, each laser requires special optics. These complex optical systems guide, alter and focus the beam to perform specific tasks. “The same laser can be used both for joining materials and for cutting them,” explains Christian Schwerdt. He is the purchasing team leader at Scansonic MI GmbH, a leading manufacturer of laser optics. The Berlin-based company, founded in 2000, supplies solutions for welding, soldering, cutting and surface finishing, among other things.

A MODULAR SYSTEM FOR SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Scansonic's success is based on a system consisting of different modules that are combined depending on the customer's specific requirements. “This way we can realize unusual or highly specialized applications in an economical way,” says Schwerdt. Such applications are becoming increasingly relevant in the rapidly growing e-mobility segment: “Regardless of whether it concerns electric motors, power electronics or batteries – laser welding is carried out on almost every part – and to an extremely high standard,” the expert points out. “For example, seams must be closed gastight, connect small parts together or be free of visible splashes or irregularities in the surface.” Each application therefore places unique demands on the laser and its optics.

The numerous cables for laser processing optics are used for
power and data transmission and for connection to robots and control cabinets.

 

The systems are mounted on an industrial robot whose axes make the desired movements possible. Furthermore, Scansonic products are not tied to a specific robot manufacturer – they can be used universally. “In our own laser laboratory – one of the largest of its kind in the world – we have many different types of robots, which means that we can extensively develop and optimize prototypes of new applications for our optics,” describes Schwerdt. This combination of know-how and flexibility makes Scansonic a sought-after partner for many renowned companies, from medium-sized companies to large enterprises.

Cables are important components in laser processing. They send power and data through the systems and connect them to the control cabinet via the robot. Reliable performance is of utmost importance, as any failure can lead to costly production disruption. At the same time, the cables are subject to constantly changing bending, torsion and tensile loads due to the robot's movements. Therefore, cables specifically designed for this area of application are required to prevent unwanted wear and damage to the cable during long-term use.

DESIGNED FOR ROBOTS

Scansonic relies on HELUKABEL for these critical components. The leading supplier of electrical connection technology, which has been a qualified supply partner of the laser specialist for a number of years, equips the optical devices in Berlin with, among other things, four different types of robot cables. These are based on the successful ROBOFLEX product family, which is specially designed for use on and with robots. “The cables are resistant to chemical and thermal loads and mechanical loads such as torsion and bending,” explains Vincenzo Rio, global segment manager for robot cables at HELUKABEL. “On request, cable variants are also available that are resistant to oil and welding sparks.” The brand name ROBOFLEX includes sensor, data, control and motor cables and thus covers the entire application spectrum of cables in robotics.

Scansonic develops and optimizes in its own laser laboratory
new applications for its machining optics on different types of robots.

A SUPPLIER THAT LEAVES NO WISH UNFULFILLED

Thanks to this strong total package, Scansonic is extremely satisfied with HELUKABEL. Schwerdt has no doubt that the successful business collaboration, which has existed for about 10 years, will continue in the future. “We don't like to simply change suppliers due to the time-consuming and expensive qualification process,” he says. “With HELUKABEL we would have no reason to do that. The quality, availability and service are just good – there is nothing that could be improved.”

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ABOUT SCANSONIC

Who:

Scansonic supplies specialist systems and solutions for laser welding, laser soldering and laser hardening, and also offers associated sensor technology and quality assurance. Back in 2000, the Berlin company set a new standard in the industry when it launched its very first product: the innovative laser soldering optical processing tool was the first of its kind to control very fine joints on car bodies.

What:

Scansonic's products are mainly used in the automotive industry, rail vehicle construction and the energy sector. The company is a leading supplier of laser systems for assembly connections worldwide. Scansonic is part of the Berlin.Industrial.Group. (BIG), a conglomerate of five technology companies, each with their own focus.

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