Month: August 2026

How to automate sheet metal handling

The integration between a storage system and a laser cutting machine makes it possible to connect sheet metal storage directly to the cutting process, automating material handling and machine feeding operations.

In a modern sheet metal processing department, the warehouse should not be considered simply as an area for storing material. Through an integrated system, it can become an active part of the production process.

Connecting the sheet metal storage system, handling systems, automatic loader and laser cutting machine helps reduce manual operations, optimize available space and increase the autonomy of the cutting process.

What is the integration between a storage system and a laser cutting machine?

The integration of a sheet metal storage system with a laser cutting machine involves designing a system in which the sheet metal warehouse communicates and works together with the machine used for cutting.

The process can therefore be organized according to an automated sequence:

SHEET METAL STORAGE
↓
MATERIAL MANAGEMENT
↓
RETRIEVAL
↓
HANDLING
↓
MACHINE LOADING
↓
LASER CUTTING

This allows material to move from storage to production with fewer manual interventions.

Why integrate a storage system with a laser cutting machine?

Integration makes it possible to improve one of the activities that has a major impact on the organization of a sheet metal processing department: the management and handling of raw material.

When material is moved manually between the warehouse and the machine, several operations are required, including retrieval, transport, positioning and preparation of the sheet metal.

An integrated system can automate part of these operations and make the production flow more continuous.

The main objectives of integration are:

• reducing manual handling;
• optimizing storage space;
• improving inventory organization;
• reducing material preparation times;
• increasing laser cutting machine autonomy;
• improving operational safety;
• making the production process more efficient.

How can a storage system be integrated with a laser cutting machine?

There is no single configuration suitable for every company. Integration must be designed according to the facility, the laser cutting machine and the characteristics of the sheet metal being processed.

In general, the system can include several components working together.

1. Storage system

The first element is the system used to store the sheet metal.

The capacity and configuration of the storage system must be defined according to the quantity of material to be managed, sheet formats, thicknesses and available space.

Vertical systems can also make use of the height of the facility to increase storage capacity while reducing the floor area required.

2. Handling system

Once the required sheet metal has been identified, the handling system transfers the material from the storage area to the loading zone.

Automatic handling reduces the need for manual operations and creates a more organized material flow.

3. Loading system

The automatic loader provides the direct connection between the sheet metal management system and the laser cutting machine.

Its purpose is to transfer and position the sheet metal on the machine, preparing it for the cutting cycle.

Discover automatic loading systems for laser cutting machines

4. Laser cutting machine

The laser cutting machine is where the sheet metal is actually processed.

The automation system must therefore be designed according to the characteristics of the machine and the way in which sheet metal is loaded and exchanged.

Integration between automatic storage and laser cutting

The level of automation increases when the storage system is directly connected to the laser cutting machine through automatic handling and loading systems.

In this configuration, the operator does not necessarily have to perform all the operations between storing the sheet metal and processing it.

The system can manage the material and make it available to the machine according to production requirements.

This approach transforms the warehouse into a true automated extension of the production department.

Integrating an existing laser cutting machine

Warehouse automation does not necessarily require the purchase of a new laser cutting machine.

In some cases, it is possible to design a solution to integrate a storage system with a laser cutting machine already installed.

Feasibility depends on the characteristics of the existing system and must take several factors into account:

• laser cutting machine model and configuration;
• sheet metal dimensions and formats;
• material thicknesses and weights;
• production department layout;
• available space;
• current loading and unloading procedures;
• required storage capacity;
• desired level of automation.

A proper initial analysis makes it possible to determine how the new system can be integrated into the existing production process.

Layout is essential when integrating storage and laser cutting

The physical arrangement of the different components is one of the most important aspects when designing an integrated system.

The following aspects should be considered:

• storage areas;
• laser cutting machine position;
• handling routes;
• operator accessibility;
• other machines present in the department;
• spaces required for manual loading;
• possibility of future system expansion.

Proper planning makes it possible to integrate automation without compromising the overall functionality of the facility.

Storage and laser machine integration: optimizing space

One of the main reasons why companies choose to automate sheet metal storage is the need to manage large quantities of material in a limited space.

Vertical development makes it possible to use the available height inside the facility, increasing storage capacity without necessarily requiring a proportional increase in floor space.

This approach can be particularly useful in facilities where floor space is limited.

Automatic inventory management

An integrated system can also improve the organization of sheet metal stored in the warehouse.

Position management makes it possible to know where the material is stored and facilitates its retrieval when requested by production.

This changes the approach from simply using available storage space to a more organized inventory management system.

The result is greater visibility of the material available in the facility and reduced time required to locate the sheet metal needed for processing.

From storage to laser cutting without unnecessary handling

One of the objectives of integration is to reduce unnecessary movement of sheet metal.

In a traditional process, material may be moved several times before reaching the laser cutting machine.

An automated system makes it possible to create a more direct route:

STORAGE
↓
RETRIEVAL
↓
AUTOMATIC HANDLING
↓
AUTOMATIC LOADER
↓
LASER CUTTING MACHINE

Reducing unnecessary handling helps make the process more organized and efficient.

Storage integration and automatic sheet metal feeding

Connecting the storage system to an automatic feeding system makes it possible to extend automation through to the machine loading stage.

The sheet metal is retrieved from the storage system and transferred to the loader, which makes it available to the machine for the cutting cycle.

In this way, the storage system and loading system work together to ensure continuous material availability.

Learn more about automatic sheet metal feeding

Integration with one or more laser cutting machines

Centralized material management can be particularly useful for companies operating multiple laser cutting machines.

Depending on the plant configuration, a storage system can be designed to manage large quantities of material and supply different production areas.

The design must take into account production volumes, machine usage frequency and the routes required to move the sheet metal.

A centralized storage system can therefore become a common material management point.

What factors should be considered before integrating storage with laser cutting?

Before designing an automation system, it is necessary to analyze the characteristics of the entire production process.

The main factors to consider include:

• quantity of sheet metal to be stored;
• sheet formats used;
• thicknesses processed;
• sheet metal weight;
• number of laser cutting machines;
• available space within the facility;
• available building height;
• frequency of loading operations;
• desired level of automation;
• possibility of future expansion.

Evaluating these elements makes it possible to design a solution that matches the company’s actual production requirements.

Storage and laser cutting integration for process automation

Integration does not necessarily have to be limited to connecting the storage system and laser cutting machine.

The project can include several stages of sheet metal management:

STORAGE
↓
MATERIAL MANAGEMENT
↓
HANDLING
↓
AUTOMATIC LOADING
↓
LASER CUTTING
↓
UNLOADING
↓
SORTING

Automation can therefore be developed progressively according to the company’s needs.

A scalable system based on production requirements

Not every company requires the same level of automation.

For this reason, an integration system can be designed around current requirements while allowing additional functions to be implemented at a later stage.

Modularity makes it possible to adapt the system as production grows and the production layout changes.

This approach avoids designing a system that is excessively oversized for current requirements, while maintaining the possibility of expanding it over time.

BEMATIK’s experience in integrating sheet metal automation systems

BEMATIK Srl develops robotic systems dedicated to sheet metal handling, transport and storage, designed to be installed alongside and integrated with laser cutting machines.

The company has more than 25 years of specific experience in automation for laser cutting machines, with several hundred systems installed worldwide.

Its range of solutions addresses different requirements in terms of space, storage capacity and automation level.

Another key strength of BEMATIK is its ability to develop customized solutions for integration with existing plants and production environments.

Why choose an integrated storage and laser cutting system?

Integrating a storage system with a laser cutting machine makes it possible to improve the entire raw material flow, from storage through to processing.

The material can be organized, handled and made available to production through a system designed to reduce manual operations and optimize the production flow.

The integration of a storage system with a laser cutting machine is a practical solution for automating sheet metal management and connecting storage directly to the cutting process.

By combining automatic storage, material handling and sheet metal loading, companies can reduce manual operations, optimize available space and increase laser cutting machine autonomy.

The ideal configuration should be designed according to the facility layout, sheet metal characteristics, required storage capacity and the company’s production objectives.

When properly designed, integration can transform the warehouse from a simple storage area into an active and automated component of the production process.

Discover the Laser Cutting Machine with Integrated Storage

Material Automation and Production Process Efficiency

A laser cutting machine with automated sheet metal storage integrates the laser cutting machine with an automated system dedicated to sheet metal management, storage and handling.

This configuration connects raw material availability directly to the cutting process, reducing manual handling and creating a more efficient production flow.

Automated sheet metal storage can be designed according to the characteristics of the facility, available space and production requirements, with the possibility of connecting the storage system directly to the laser cutting machine’s loading systems.

What Is a Laser Cutting Machine with Automated Sheet Metal Storage?

A laser cutting machine with automated sheet metal storage is a system in which the laser cutting machine is integrated with an automated solution for material management.

The storage system organizes sheet metal and makes it available to production when required.

Automated handling can then transfer the material to the laser cutting machine’s loading system, creating a direct connection between storage and production.

Why Automate Sheet Metal Storage?

Sheet metal management can become complex when a company needs to handle large quantities of material, different formats or different thicknesses.

Manual management can require significant time, space and dedicated personnel for material handling operations.

An automated sheet metal storage system, on the other hand, makes it possible to organize material and automate part of the operations required to make it available for production.

The main objectives are:

• optimize storage space;
• reduce manual handling;
• improve material organization;
• reduce sheet metal preparation times;
• increase laser cutting machine autonomy;
• create a more efficient production flow.

How Does Automated Storage Connected to a Laser Cutting Machine Work?

An integrated system can manage several stages of sheet metal handling.

1. Loading Sheet Metal into the Storage System

The sheet metal is placed into the storage system and organized in the designated position.

The storage system is configured according to the formats, thicknesses and quantity of material that the company needs to manage.

2. Material Organization

The system keeps the different sheet metal materials organized within the storage system, allowing available stock to be managed more efficiently.

3. Automated Retrieval

When production requires a specific sheet metal, the system can identify the required material and retrieve it automatically.

4. Transfer to the Laser Cutting Machine

The sheet metal is transferred to the laser cutting machine’s loading system.

5. Machine Feeding

The loading system positions the sheet metal on the laser cutting machine, making it available for the cutting cycle.

Laser Cutting and Automated Storage: One Integrated Production Flow

The main advantage of integration is the ability to connect storage directly to production.

In a traditional system, sheet metal may be moved manually from the storage area to the laser cutting machine.

With an automated system, material can instead be managed through a more organized flow that includes storage, retrieval and automated handling all the way to the machine loader.

The sheet metal is then transferred to the laser cutting machine and introduced into the cutting process, reducing the manual operations required to manage the material.

The storage system thus becomes an integral part of the production process, helping to coordinate sheet metal management and the connection between storage and processing.

Advantages of Laser Cutting with Automated Sheet Metal Storage

Space Optimization

Automated storage systems can make use of the vertical space within the facility, increasing available capacity without necessarily increasing the floor area occupied.

This makes it possible to use the areas dedicated to raw material management more efficiently.

Reduced Manual Handling

Handling large or thick sheet metal can require dedicated equipment and personnel.

Automation reduces manual operations and creates a more organized transfer of material to the laser cutting machine.

Faster Material Preparation

Organized sheet metal availability reduces the time required to locate and prepare the material for cutting.

This can contribute to a smoother production cycle.

Greater Laser Cutting Machine Autonomy

When the storage system is connected to an automated loader, the laser cutting machine can receive material directly from the sheet metal management system.

This reduces operator intervention during feeding operations.

Improved Safety

Reducing the manual handling of heavy or bulky sheet metal can contribute to safer working conditions within the production area.

Automated Storage and Storage Towers

One of the solutions used to automate sheet metal storage is the use of vertical systems.

A storage tower makes it possible to take advantage of the height of the facility and organize material across multiple levels.

The system can be connected to the laser cutting machine through automated handling and loading equipment.

In this way, the tower becomes the starting point of an automated flow that moves sheet metal from storage to the machine.

Connecting the Storage System to the Laser Cutting Machine

To create a truly automated system, it is important to consider the connection between the different components of the installation.

A project may include:

• storage system;
• storage position management;
• handling system;
• automated loader;
• laser cutting machine;
• unloading system;
• optional sorting of processed parts.

The system must be designed according to the production layout and the characteristics of the laser cutting machine.

What Sheet Metal Can an Automated Storage System Handle?

The system configuration must be sized according to the characteristics of the sheet metal used in the production process.

The main parameters to consider include:

• sheet metal format;
• thickness;
• weight;
• quantity of material to be stored;
• handling frequency;
• number of machines to be supplied.

Proper evaluation of these factors makes it possible to design a storage system suited to the company’s actual requirements.

Automated Storage for One or More Laser Cutting Machines

A storage system does not necessarily have to serve a single machine.

Depending on the system configuration, the storage system can be designed to manage larger quantities of material and supply different areas or machines within the production department.

This option is particularly interesting for companies with multiple laser cutting machines that want to centralize raw material management.

Laser Cutting with Automated Storage and Industry 4.0

The integration of automated storage and laser cutting represents an important step toward greater production automation.

Organized material management improves inventory control, while automated handling contributes to a more efficient production flow.

The storage system can therefore become an active part of the industrial process, connected to the machines and other technologies used within the production area.

When Does It Make Sense to Automate Sheet Metal Storage?

Storage automation can be particularly useful when a company needs to manage large quantities of material or wants to increase the autonomy of its laser cutting machines.

An automated system can be particularly interesting when:

• the storage area occupies a large amount of floor space;
• many sheet metal formats need to be managed;
• material handling operations are frequent;
• the laser cutting machine needs to operate with greater autonomy;
• manual work needs to be reduced;
• inventory organization needs to be improved;
• storage needs to be integrated with production.

BEMATIK’s Experience in Sheet Metal Automation

BEMATIK Srl develops robotic systems dedicated to sheet metal handling, transport and storage, designed to be integrated with laser cutting machines.

The company has more than 25 years of specific experience in automation systems for laser cutting machines, with several hundred installations worldwide.

The range of solutions has been developed to meet different requirements in terms of space, storage capacity and level of automation.

BEMATIK also has extensive expertise in developing customized solutions, including integration with existing production systems and layouts.

An Integrated System for Automating Sheet Metal Management

A laser cutting machine with automated sheet metal storage transforms the storage system from a simple storage area into an active component of the production process.

Sheet metal is organized, handled and made available to the laser cutting machine according to production requirements.

Integration with loading and handling systems also makes it possible to extend automation across different stages of the process.

A laser cutting machine with automated sheet metal storage connects raw material management directly to production, reducing manual handling and improving organization within the production area.

Automated storage makes better use of available space, enables more efficient inventory management and ensures that sheet metal is available to the laser cutting machine when required.

When storage, handling and loading are integrated into a single system, the company can achieve a smoother, safer and more autonomous production process.

Vertical Storage and Sheet Metal Automation

A laser cutting machine with a storage tower makes it possible to integrate the sheet metal cutting process with a vertical system dedicated to the automated storage and handling of material.

This configuration makes it possible to take advantage of the height of the facility to organize large quantities of sheet metal, reducing floor space requirements and making the connection between stored material and the laser cutting machine more efficient.

The integration between the storage tower and laser cutting machine can also increase production autonomy, reducing manual handling and creating a smoother sheet metal flow.

What Is a Laser Cutting Machine with a Storage Tower?

A laser cutting machine with a storage tower is a system in which a laser cutting machine is connected to an automated vertical structure for storing sheet metal.

The tower allows material to be organized across multiple levels, making use of the available height within the facility.

Through automated handling systems, sheet metal can be retrieved from the storage system and transferred to the laser cutting machine’s loading system.

The result is a process in which sheet metal storage, handling and cutting can be integrated into a single production flow.

Why Choose a Storage Tower for a Laser Cutting Machine?

Integrating a vertical storage tower with a laser cutting machine can be particularly advantageous when a company needs to manage large quantities of material without significantly increasing the floor area dedicated to storage.

The main advantages include:

• optimized use of available space;
• increased storage capacity;
• automated material organization;
• reduced manual handling;
• greater material availability for production;
• the possibility of automatically feeding the laser cutting machine.

How Does a Laser Cutting Machine Connected to a Storage Tower Work?

The operation of an integrated system can be divided into several stages.

Sheet Metal Storage

Sheet metal is placed inside the system and organized in designated storage positions.

The vertical design of the tower makes it possible to take advantage of the height of the facility and increase available capacity without occupying excessive floor space.

Material Management

The system makes it possible to organize different sheet metal materials and identify the material required for production.

Automated position management simplifies inventory control and reduces the time needed to locate the required material.

Sheet Metal Retrieval

When a specific sheet metal needs to be processed, the handling system retrieves it from its storage position.

Transfer to the Laser Cutting Machine

The sheet metal is transferred to the laser cutting machine’s loading system, where it is prepared for the cutting cycle.

Start of Processing

Once loading operations are complete, the laser cutting machine can begin processing the sheet metal.

The Advantage of Vertical Storage

One of the main reasons for choosing a storage tower is the ability to make use of the vertical space within the facility.

In a traditional storage system, increasing the amount of stored material often requires a larger floor area.

A vertical system, on the other hand, uses available height to organize sheet metal across multiple levels.

This makes it possible to achieve greater storage capacity while maintaining the same floor footprint.

Laser Cutting Machine with Storage Tower: Optimizing Production Space

Available space is often one of the main constraints when designing a sheet metal processing area.

A storage tower can help address this issue by concentrating a large quantity of material within a vertically developed structure.

The design must nevertheless take into account:

• available building height;
• available floor space;
• sheet metal formats;
• material weight and thickness;
• required storage capacity;
• position of the laser cutting machine;
• internal material flow.

Storage Tower and Automated Feeding of the Laser Cutting Machine

The storage tower reaches a high level of integration when connected to an automated laser cutting machine feeding system.

In this configuration, sheet metal management can be coordinated from storage through to machine loading.

The material is automatically retrieved from the tower and transferred to the laser cutting machine through the handling system, eliminating the need to manually perform each transport operation.

Once it reaches the machine, the sheet metal is positioned and prepared for the subsequent cutting process.

Automating the connection between the storage tower and laser cutting machine reduces manual operations, creates a smoother material flow and increases production autonomy.

The system configuration can be adapted to the characteristics of the facility and the specific requirements of the company.

Automated Sheet Metal Management

A storage tower is not simply a system for storing material. It can become a tool for organizing the entire sheet metal management process more efficiently.

The system can make it possible to:

• organize sheet metal in defined storage positions;
• know the availability of stored material;
• automatically retrieve the required sheet metal;
• reduce handling times;
• make material easily accessible;
• connect storage to subsequent production stages.

The storage system thus becomes an active part of the production process.

Single-Tower, Double-Tower or Multi-Tower Storage Systems

The system configuration can vary according to the required storage capacity and the characteristics of the facility.

Solutions can range from a single tower to systems with multiple towers connected to one another.

Higher-capacity systems can manage significant quantities of material and can be served by automated handling systems.

The appropriate configuration should be selected by considering the volume of material to be stored, the number of machines to be supplied and the company’s production flow.

Laser Cutting Machine with Storage Tower and Automated Production

Integrating a storage tower with a laser cutting machine can represent a central element within a broader automation project.

Connecting the different systems makes it possible to coordinate sheet metal storage, handling and processing within a single production flow.

The process can begin with automated sheet metal storage and continue with material retrieval and transfer to the laser cutting machine.

After loading, the sheet metal is processed through the cutting cycle and, once cutting is complete, the parts can be unloaded and transferred to subsequent production stages.

The system can also be integrated with technologies dedicated to part separation and sorting, extending automation to operations after cutting.

In this way, automation is not limited to the individual laser cutting machine, but can be extended to create a more complete and coordinated production process.

When Does a Laser Cutting Machine with a Storage Tower Make Sense?

This type of solution can be particularly interesting for companies that want to increase storage capacity without occupying large floor areas while also improving the automation of the cutting process.

A tower can be especially useful when:

• available floor space is limited;
• large quantities of sheet metal need to be managed;
• many material formats or types are used;
• manual handling needs to be reduced;
• laser cutting machine autonomy needs to be increased;
• storage needs to be integrated with the production process.

Integrating a Storage Tower with an Existing Laser Cutting Machine

It is not always necessary to design a completely new production system.

In certain situations, it is possible to evaluate the integration of a vertical storage system with a laser cutting machine already installed in the facility.

Feasibility depends on the characteristics of the machine, the production area layout, available space and the current methods used to manage sheet metal.

An integration project should therefore begin with an analysis of the entire production flow.

Storage Tower and Industry 4.0

The integration of automated storage and laser cutting is part of the broader digitalization and automation process taking place in modern production facilities.

Organized material management improves inventory control, while automated handling contributes to a more efficient production flow.

When the tower is connected to the loading systems and the laser cutting machine, storage can become an integral part of a more highly automated production process.

BEMATIK’s Experience in Sheet Metal Automation

More Than 25 Years of Industry Experience

BEMATIK Srl develops robotic systems dedicated to sheet metal handling, transport and storage, with solutions designed to work alongside laser cutting machines.

The company has more than 25 years of specific experience in automation systems for laser cutting machines and has completed several hundred installations worldwide.

The BEMATIK range includes systems designed for different requirements in terms of space, capacity and automation.

Thanks to its experience, the company can also develop customized solutions for integration with existing production systems and configurations.

Storage Tower and Laser Cutting Machine: An Integrated System

The combination of a storage tower and laser cutting machine addresses two fundamental requirements in sheet metal processing: storing material efficiently and making it available to production when required.

Making use of vertical space, organized inventory management and automated material handling make the tower an important element when designing a modern production area.

Integration with the loading system also makes it possible to connect storage directly to the laser cutting machine, increasing process autonomy.

A laser cutting machine with a storage tower integrates laser cutting with a vertical system for automated sheet metal storage and handling.

The solution makes it possible to take advantage of the height of the facility, increase storage capacity and reduce manual handling.

When the tower, loading system and laser cutting machine are designed to work together, it is possible to create a more efficient and highly automated production flow.

The most suitable configuration should be evaluated according to available space, sheet metal formats and thicknesses, the quantity of material to be managed and the desired level of automation.

Automation and Efficient Sheet Metal Management

A laser cutting machine with storage makes it possible to integrate sheet metal processing with an organized system for storing and handling the material.

This configuration helps reduce manual operations, optimize available space and make the sheet metal flow more efficient, from storage through to laser cutting.

The integration between the laser cutting machine and the storage system can be designed according to the characteristics of the facility, sheet metal formats, material thicknesses and the company’s production requirements.

What Is a Laser Cutting Machine with Storage?

The term laser cutting machine with storage refers to a system in which the laser cutting machine is positioned alongside or connected to an automated system for managing sheet metal.

The storage system is responsible for organizing and storing the material, while handling and loading systems transfer the sheet metal to the laser cutting machine when required by the production process.

In this way, the storage system becomes an integral part of production rather than simply an area for storing raw materials.

How Does a Laser Cutting Machine Connected to a Storage System Work?

A laser cutting machine connected to an automated storage system makes it possible to manage the different stages preceding and supporting the sheet metal cutting process in an integrated way.

The material is stored within the storage system and, when required, is identified and automatically retrieved according to the programmed production process.

The handling system then transfers the sheet metal from the storage system to the laser cutting machine, where it is positioned and the cutting process begins.

Once processing is complete, the material can be moved again or directed to subsequent production stages, depending on the system configuration.

The level of automation can vary according to the type of storage system, the laser cutting machine being used and the company’s production requirements.

Integrating storage and cutting makes sheet metal management more efficient and reduces manual material handling operations.

Why Combine a Storage System with a Laser Cutting Machine?

Combining a laser cutting machine with an automated storage system can provide several benefits within a sheet metal processing facility.

Optimize Available Space

One of the main advantages is the ability to organize large quantities of material while making efficient use of the available space within the facility.

Vertical storage solutions make it possible to use the available height, reducing the floor area required for sheet metal storage.

Reduce Manual Handling

Sheet metal can be large and heavy, making manual handling an operation that requires particular attention.

Automation reduces the number of manual operations required to transfer material from the storage system to the laser cutting machine.

This contributes to a more organized and safer production environment.

Reduce Material Preparation Times

Organized material availability reduces the time required to locate, retrieve and prepare the sheet metal needed for processing.

The material can be made available according to production requirements, helping to create a smoother workflow.

Improve Inventory Management

An automated storage system makes it possible to organize the material available within the facility more precisely.

Position management makes it possible to know where different sheet metal materials are stored and provides a more organized overview of available stock.

Laser Cutting Machine and Automated Sheet Metal Storage

When the storage system is automated, the laser cutting machine can be connected to a system capable of managing material with increasingly limited operator intervention.

The system can handle storage and material movement, while the automated loader transfers the sheet metal to the laser cutting machine’s working area.

This creates a direct connection between raw material management and the cutting process.

For further information: Automated Sheet Metal Storage

Laser Cutting Machine with Vertical Storage

One option for integrating storage with a laser cutting machine is the use of a vertical storage system.

A storage tower makes it possible to take advantage of the height of the facility and organize a large quantity of sheet metal within a compact footprint.

This solution can be particularly interesting when a company has limited floor space but requires high storage capacity.

The system can also be connected to the laser cutting machine through automated handling and loading systems.

From Storage to Laser Cutting: Automated Loading

The connection between the storage system and the laser cutting machine becomes particularly effective when integrated with an automated sheet metal loading system.

The combination of storage and automated loading can therefore increase the autonomy of the laser cutting machine and contribute to production continuity.

For further information about automated loading solutions: Automated Loaders for Laser Cutting Machines

What Types of Sheet Metal Can an Integrated System Handle?

The system configuration must be evaluated according to the characteristics of the materials used by the company.

Key factors to consider include:

• sheet metal formats;
• material thickness;
• sheet metal weight;
• quantity of material to be stored;
• frequency of loading operations;
• available space within the facility.

These parameters help determine the most suitable configuration for the storage and handling system.

Laser Cutting Machine with Storage: When Does It Make Sense?

Integrating a storage system with a laser cutting machine can be particularly beneficial for companies handling large quantities of sheet metal or looking to reduce manual operations within the production area.

It can also be a useful solution when:

• floor space is limited;
• multiple sheet metal formats are used;
• the laser cutting machine needs to operate with greater autonomy;
• material handling times need to be reduced;
• inventory management needs to be improved;
• the level of production automation needs to be increased.

Integrating a Storage System with an Existing Laser Cutting Machine

Automation does not necessarily have to start with the design of a completely new production system.

In many cases, it is possible to evaluate the integration of automated systems with a laser cutting machine already installed in the facility.

Feasibility depends on the characteristics of the machine, the production layout, available space and the way sheet metal is currently managed.

An integration project must therefore consider the entire material flow, from its entry into the storage system through to processing on the laser cutting machine.

Laser Cutting Machine with Storage and Production Process Automation

Integrating a laser cutting machine with an automated storage system can represent an important step toward production automation.

The system connects the different stages of sheet metal management and processing, reducing the need for manual intervention and creating a more organized material flow.

The process can start with sheet metal storage, continue with automated material selection and handling, and then proceed to loading the laser cutting machine.

Once cutting is complete, the processed parts can be unloaded and moved to subsequent production stages.

The integration of these systems makes it possible to develop a more structured production process in which sheet metal storage, handling and processing can be managed in a coordinated way.

The level of automation can be configured according to production requirements, available space and the characteristics of the installation.

BEMATIK’s Experience in Sheet Metal Automation

BEMATIK Srl develops robotic systems dedicated to the handling, movement and storage of sheet metal, designed to work alongside laser cutting machines.

The company has more than 25 years of specific experience in automation systems for laser cutting machines, with several hundred installations worldwide.

The range of solutions has been developed to meet different production requirements, with scalable configurations and customization options.

BEMATIK also has significant experience in developing customized solutions for integration with existing production systems and layouts.

Laser Cutting Machine with Storage: An Integrated Solution

Integrating a laser cutting machine with a storage system means optimizing the entire sheet metal management process, not just the cutting stage.

Storage, handling and material feeding can be organized as part of a single system, reducing manual operations and improving production continuity.

The ideal configuration depends on the company’s characteristics, available space, materials being processed and desired level of automation.

A laser cutting machine with storage connects sheet metal management to the cutting process, improving material organization and reducing manual activities.

Integration with automated storage and loading systems makes it possible to create a more efficient workflow in which sheet metal is made available to the laser cutting machine according to production requirements.

For companies looking to increase production automation, integrating storage, material handling and laser cutting represents a practical solution for improving productivity, safety and space management.

Complete Automation of Sheet Metal Processing

A laser cutting machine with integrated storage is a production system in which the laser cutting machine is connected to an automated system for storing and handling sheet metal.

The integration between the laser cutting machine and the storage system makes it possible to manage materials in a more organized way, reducing manual operations and making the production flow more efficient.

Sheet metal can be stored within the automated system and subsequently moved to the laser cutting machine according to production requirements.

The result is a system in which sheet metal storage, handling and processing are connected within a single production process.

Why Integrate a Storage System with a Laser Cutting Machine?

In traditional production environments, sheet metal is often stored in areas separate from the laser cutting machine and moved through manual operations.

This can result in:

• material handling times;
• large floor space requirements;
• difficulties in inventory management;
• increased manual handling;
• interruptions to the production cycle.

Integrating an automated storage system makes it possible to bring material management closer to production and automate a significant part of the process.

The goal is not simply to store more sheet metal, but to create a system in which the material is available when needed and can be transferred to the laser cutting machine quickly and efficiently.

How Does a Laser Cutting Machine with Automated Storage Work?

The operation of an integrated system can be divided into several stages:

1. Sheet Metal Storage

Sheet metal is organized within the storage system, making efficient use of the available space.

2. Material Identification

The system makes it possible to identify the sheet metal required according to production needs.

3. Automated Handling

The sheet metal is retrieved and transferred to the loading system.

4. Feeding the Laser Cutting Machine

The material is delivered to the laser cutting machine and positioned for the cutting process.

5. Continuation of the Production Cycle

Once processing is complete, the cut material can be managed through unloading, handling or sorting systems.

In this way, the storage system is no longer simply a storage area, but becomes an integral part of the production process.

Laser Cutting Machine with Storage: What Are the Advantages?

The integration of a laser cutting machine with an automated storage system can offer several advantages to companies working with sheet metal.

Space Optimization

Automated systems can make use of the vertical space within the facility, increasing storage capacity without requiring large floor areas.

This is particularly important when available production space is limited.

Reduced Manual Handling

Handling sheet metal can require dedicated equipment and personnel.

With an automated system, a significant part of these operations can be managed automatically, reducing manual intervention and improving safety within the production area.

Greater Material Availability

An organized system makes it possible to know where the sheet metal is stored and retrieve it when required.

Automated inventory management therefore facilitates production planning and reduces the time required to locate and prepare material.

Greater Laser Cutting Machine Autonomy

The connection between the storage system and the laser cutting machine makes it possible to automate material feeding.

The machine can therefore operate with greater continuity, reducing downtime associated with sheet metal preparation and loading.

Storage Tower and Laser Cutting Machine

One of the most interesting configurations for integrating storage and laser cutting is a sheet metal storage tower.

The vertical structure makes it possible to take advantage of the height of the facility and organize a large quantity of material within a relatively compact footprint.

Storage towers can be configured according to the required storage capacity and connected to the handling and loading systems of the laser cutting machine.

Laser Cutting with Automated Sheet Metal Storage

A laser cutting machine with automated sheet metal storage makes it possible to integrate raw material management directly into the cutting process.

The storage system can automatically make the required material available, while the loading system handles its transfer to the machine.

This configuration makes it possible to create a production flow:

STORAGE → HANDLING → LOADING → LASER CUTTING

Automation can be extended to the stages following the cutting process through unloading and sorting systems.

For further information: Laser Cutting Machine with Automated Sheet Metal Storage

Integration Between the Storage System and the Laser Cutting Machine

The efficiency of an integrated system depends on the ability of the different components of the system to work together.

Integration can include:

• storage system;
• inventory management;
• automated material handling;
• loading system;
• pallet changer;
• laser cutting machine;
• unloading system;
• sorting of cut parts.

The result is a process in which the different stages of production are connected to one another.

Integration can also be designed around existing equipment, adapting the automation system to the layout and characteristics of the production environment.

Automated Sheet Metal Loading to the Laser Cutting Machine

The storage system reaches its highest level of efficiency when it is connected to an automated loading system.

The loader retrieves the sheet metal from the storage system and transfers it to the laser cutting machine, reducing the need for manual handling.

Automated loading is particularly useful in production environments characterized by:

• high production volumes;
• continuous production cycles;
• large sheet metal formats;
• thick sheet metal;
• the need to reduce non-productive time.

Laser Cutting Machine with Integrated Storage and Industry 4.0

The integration of storage and laser cutting represents an important step toward a more automated production environment.

Digital material management makes it possible to improve inventory control and production organization, while automated handling reduces manual activities.

When the storage system, loading systems and laser cutting machine are integrated into a single process, the system can achieve a high level of production autonomy.

How to Choose a Storage System for a Laser Cutting Machine

There is no universal configuration suitable for every company.

The choice of storage system should take several factors into account:

Available Space

Both the available floor space and the height of the facility need to be evaluated.

Sheet Metal Format

The system must be sized according to the sheet metal formats used in production.

Thickness and Weight

The handling capacity must be suitable for the materials being processed.

Material Quantity

The storage capacity must be proportional to production requirements.

Number of Laser Cutting Machines

When multiple machines need to be supplied by the same storage system, the overall system configuration becomes particularly important.

Level of Automation

Solutions can be designed with different levels of automation, from simpler configurations to integrated systems capable of managing storage, loading, unloading and material handling.

BEMATIK’s Experience in Sheet Metal Automation

BEMATIK Srl offers international markets robotic systems dedicated to the handling, transport and storage of sheet metal, designed to work alongside laser cutting machines.

The company has more than 25 years of specific experience in automation systems for laser cutting machines, with several hundred installations worldwide.

The company also has extensive expertise in designing customized solutions for integration with existing production systems and layouts.

An Integrated Solution for Sheet Metal Management

The combination of a laser cutting machine and an automated storage system makes it possible to rethink the entire sheet metal management process.

It is not simply a matter of adding a storage system to a laser cutting machine, but of designing a system in which storage, handling, loading and processing can operate in a coordinated manner.

For companies looking to increase production automation, this integration can represent an important opportunity to improve efficiency, safety and organization within the production area.

A laser cutting machine with integrated storage connects raw material management directly to the cutting process, automating sheet metal storage, handling and feeding operations.

The system configuration should be designed according to the available space, sheet metal formats and thicknesses, required storage capacity and desired level of automation.

By integrating an automated storage system, loading systems and laser cutting machine, it is possible to create a more efficient, organized and autonomous production process.