Along with Sortec technology, the total Tecoi Sortec system solution integrates other Tecoi innovations, including Loadtec, Tecoi’s automated servo-driven plate handling system. Equipped with an automatic crane with liftable magnets, Loadtec handles plate transport at different stages of the process. Tecoi’s CAP System provides automatic machine loading and unloading to Tecoi’s LS Large-Format Laser Cutting Machine. Equipped with two straight laser heads and 24 kW high production power, Tecoi’s LS Laser Cutting Machine maintains high production rates with consistent precision. Robotec, Tecoi’s automatic sorting and palletizing system completes the process, performing picking, sorting, stacking, and palletizing of cut parts.

Founded in 1998, Tecoi develops, constructs, installs, and services machines for turning, sorting, distributing and combining all kinds of products.

Step-by-step Tecoi Sortec operational flow: plate reception and alignment; transport to the cutting station; automated loading and unloading; high-power laser cutting; the transfer of cut material; automatic sorting and stacking; management of full and empty pallets; and scrap and offcut management.

Tecoi designs and manufactures customized solutions for a wide array of companies and industries that comprise a wide range of sectors in metal processing– including steel service centers, steel construction, heavy duty machinery, the oil and gas industry, shipyards, and for wind power.

Efficient Automation in Sheet Unloading

Integrated with Lantek Expert software, the system leverages technology developed by TCI Cutting, combining an intelligent suction cup grid with its Automation Systems Load & Unload® platform for laser cutting machines. This integration enables fully automated and highly precise removal of parts directly from the cutting table.

The system detects the exact position of each part, activates only the required suction cups, and ensures precise handling based on the geometry and center of gravity of each piece. As a result, parts are unloaded without error, avoiding the suction of skeleton material or unwanted components and ensuring that each part is safely and accurately handled.

Machines equipped with TCI Cutting’s Automation Systems Load & Unload® manage material loading and unloading autonomously and can be connected to intelligent storage systems. Once the cutting process is complete, the processed table exits the working area, and the suction system automatically removes the finished parts without any operator intervention, streamlining the production flow while improving both safety and ergonomics.

“Automating the unloading process without interrupting the cutting cycle is essential to improving efficiency in sheet metal workshops. This solution delivers precision, flexibility, and better machine utilization, reducing operator workload and optimizing the entire production process,” said Francisco Pérez, OEM Channel Director at Lantek.

A Flexible and Automated Solution to Optimize Production

“This system not only prevents unloading errors but also provides a flexible, modular, and fully customer-adaptable solution,” a representative from TCI Cutting stated. Unlike traditional systems that only allow stacking of identical parts, this solution deposits all cut parts at a single point, giving the operator freedom to organize them according to production needs.

Suction cup activation can also be manually configured, giving users full flexibility to manage parts with micro-joints or complex geometries. Integration with Lantek Expert ensures advanced process control, allowing operators to fine-tune settings based on production requirements and maximize operational efficiency in every cycle.

Scalable, Modular, and Customizable Automation for the Sheet Metal Industry

Initially developed as a tailor-made project, this technology is now available for broader implementation. It stands as an adaptable and scalable automation solution for the sheet metal industry. With this innovation, Lantek and TCI Cutting strengthen their commitment to industrial digitalization and production process improvement offering sheet metal manufacturers a powerful tool to boost productivity, streamline workflows, and enhance competitiveness.

About Lantek

Founded in 1986, Lantek is the global leader in software solutions for the sheet metal industry. Its products enable companies to optimize manufacturing processes with cutting-edge technologies for CAD/CAM, MES, ERP, and analytics. With a presence in over 100 countries, Lantek empowers its customers to embrace digital transformation and achieve their goals with confidence.

Tip One: Add Flash Corrosion Protection to Your Rinse Water

The rinse stage itself can be a tricky cycle because it raises the risk of f lash rust. Jessica recommends adding 2-3% of a VpCI®-41x Series cleaner (containing flash rust preventatives) to the rinse water and monitoring concentration at every shift to avoid flash rust.

Tip Two: Cool and Dry Parts Completely

If parts are not cool and dry before they go into a package, moisture condensation is likely, again heightening the risk of corrosion. Jessica suggests reducing air knife or blower temperature after washing to cool down parts or lengthening the conveyer to allow more drying and cooling time after the wash process.

 Tip Three: Be Careful What You Touch

Jessica Carpenter reminds manufacturers not to touch metal with bare hands and not to place metal parts on cardboard or wood during the WIP cycle. Fingerprints can cause corrosion because of the pH/acidity of the skin, while wood or cardboard can hold moisture against the metal. The solution? Wear gloves and line crates or boxes with CorShield® VpCI®-146 Paper.

 Ready, Set, WIP Cycle!

The tips above are great ways to streamline your WIP cycle to get parts through the manufacturing process, into the package, and to the customer without unwelcome rust surprises. Contact the Cortec team for more expert advice on solving specific corrosion problems in your WIP cycle!