Take control of sawing tasks

German sawing machine and storage system manufacturer KASTO has introduced a new control generation for its sawing machines. The control combines modern operating principles with practical features, allowing both experienced operators and first-time users to operate the machines safely and productively.

KASTO is initially implementing the new control in its KASTOwin bandsaw series, with later expansion to other models. Optimised software architecture provides shorter program loading times and quicker response to inputs, as well as increased machine availability.

The core element of the new control system is a structured dashboard that presents key metrics that include runtimes, downtimes, current job orders and machine status. Operators can quickly see which jobs are currently running. They can also rearrange job orders and toggle between different views during cutting. The interface includes function windows for simultaneous viewing, along with context-sensitive help to reduce the number of clicks needed and accelerate control operation.

Keep it simple

A key feature of the new control system is ‘Simple Mode’, which simplifies the display to focus only on essential information and guide novice users safely through the sawing process. Different user roles ensure that operators, supervisors and maintenance personnel receive only the information relevant to their specific tasks. Additionally, users can customise individual settings, such as language, measurement units and preferred analytics,

A preloaded material library matches various material profiles with cutting feed and speed. Notably, users can retrieve previously-entered material data at any time, helping to reduce entry times for job orders.

Cutting plans facilitate quick, intuitive creation of multiple sawing jobs. Each cutting plan is assigned to a specific order, ensuring clear organisation and traceability throughout production.

Easy customisation

Individual process parameters can be set for each job, allowing precise customisation to meet specific requirements and maximise efficiency. When used in conjunction with the ‘Optisaw Light’ software module, the cutting plan reaches its full potential. The solution automatically assigns all orders to the available bars, taking into account the required cut lengths while optimising the sequence and placement of cuts. This intelligent optimisation minimises waste and maximises material usage, resulting in lower material costs and promoting more sustainable and resource-efficient production.

Fault diagnosis is another neat feature in the event of a malfunction. It clearly identifies whether the issue is mechanical or electrical, and whether it originates from the machine or its material input/output system.