Saferoad Pomerania Sp. z o.o., established in Szczecin in 2003, is part of the Norwegian Saferoad Group, a provider of road safety solutions.
The company manufactures steel structures, road components, wind towers, crash components, and noise barriers, and also offers 2D and 3D laser cutting, welding, bending, and drilling services.
It primarily uses sheets and profiles made of black steel, aluminum, in thicknesses ranging from 1 mm up to 40 mm.
Overcoming Outsourcing-related Issues
Before Saferoad decided to purchase its own fiber laser cutting machine, the company relied on subcontractors. However, working with third parties caused additional delays and limited production flexibility. "Outside services generated extended lead times and often meant higher production costs and less control over the quality and timeliness of the work" commented Dariusz Simiński, Production Manager at Saferoad Pomerania. Rising supply costs, prolonged delivery times, and increasing order volumes prompted the company to consider investing in a laser cutter.
Six months of testing confirmed it: Eagle was the best choice
The machine selection process took six months. "We conducted tests on our parts and checked with different companies for quality and manufacturing costs," recalls Dariusz Simiński. "In the 10mm-15mm sheet thickness ranges we were interested in, the Eagle cutter was superior to the others both in quality and speed."
After deciding on a manufacturer, it was time to determine the specific model and appropriate power. Saferoad also needed to consider whether the purchase would include automation systems. Ultimately, they selected an eVision 2040 8kW laser cutter and a Crane Master automation system. "Our calculations told us that about 30% of production time goes into sheet metal transportation, loading and unloading, so we decided to automate with the Crane Master," explains Simiński.
Exemplary service and trouble-free installation
The choice of the Eagle laser cutter proved to be the right one. Dariusz Simiński reflects on the installation and connection process: "I have to say that the installation process was the least invasive for me and our entire production team since I can remember. It went so smoothly that I practically didn't have to get involved."
By working with Eagle, Saferoad Pomerania has gained trust in their prompt service and support for any technical problems or questions that may arise. This approach minimizes downtime and keeps production running at the highest level. "We have a service agreement in place, so we are contacted online if any problems or questions arise. If the problem cannot be solved remotely, their response to the call is really fast," emphasizes Simiński, highlighting the efficiency and reliability of Eagle's service team.
Investing in an Eagle fiber along with an automation system has brought visible benefits, not only in the production flow but also by reducing manufacturing costs. As the Production Manager points out, "The cost of producing parts has dropped by about 20 to 30 percent." This allows the company to continue growing and investing in new technologies.
Recommending Eagle from experience
By investing in an in-house fiber laser cutting machine, Saferoad successfully overcame the challenges that resulted from working with external suppliers and gained greater control over their manufacturing process. This strategic move has been key to eliminating delays, increasing efficiency, and achieving a faster workflow, allowing for increased production volume, lower costs, and higher margins. "I would recommend Eagle because you can see the know-how they have implemented into their machines and components such as the eVa head, and cooperation with the company happens at a highly professional level," adds Simiński.