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On-site nitrogen generation for laser cutting 

Based in Auckland and Christchurch, Autobend specialises in laser cutting, design, and fabrication. Having worked with us already, they reached out to purchase their second PneuTech unit.

Nitropak nitrogen generator package for Autobend

Overview

In March 2023, a new nitrogen generation package was installed at Autobend. Like many other specialist laser cutting companies, Autobend wanted to make the switch from third-party gas hire to on-site nitrogen generation. 

The client

Autobend is an industry-leading CNC laser-cutting company with branches in Christchurch and Auckland. They work on a wide range of projects for a variety of industries which includes aviation, automotive, agricultural, building and recreational.

Autobend’s key services include laser cutting, CNC folding, design and fabrication, tube bending, roll forming, edge rounding, and welding. 

The challenge

A few years ago, Autobend purchased its first nitrogen generation unit from the Industrial Air Systems team for a Bystronic dedicated tube laser cutting facility. In 2023, they wanted to upgrade their system even further, allowing them to achieve complete control over their gas costs, supply, and future availability.

The motivation for this project stemmed from the increasing prices of nitrogen gas in New Zealand, the lack of control over deliveries, and the wasted gas that is lost when filling bulk liquid tanks.

When researching their options, Autobend found that other models were not containerised and had longer lead times, with some being over 12 months. 

The solution

By installing a PneuTech nitrogen generation system on-site, our team was able to give Autobend complete control over their gas supply. By discussing various modifications, we were able to adapt the standard design to suit the client’s unique requirements and specifications.

We took the client through their options, showcasing other units that are already in use around the country, including manufacturers with similar needs. Based on the client’s specifications and business goals, we delivered a fully turnkey containerised nitrogen generator package.

The Nitropak system features a variable-speed drive, permanent magnet rotary screw compressor, a refrigerant dryer, four-stage filtration, air receivers, a PneuTech PSA Modular N2 Generator, nitrogen receivers, two 300bar booster compressors, 300bar 3-stage filtration, and three 16-bottle 300bar gas bottle packs.

We enjoyed working with Autobend and found our good working relationship was key to solving any challenges that arose in the project. While this project is complete, we are pleased to benefit from their repeat business and potential projects in the future. 

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The results

With the new PneuTech nitrogen generator package set up, Autobend has lowered its gas cost significantly. This allows them to remain competitive in the market and manage overheads effectively.

Additionally, they have far more control over their gas supply, eliminating the risk of supply change or price hikes. The new system also increased yard space by removing the need for bulk liquid tanks. With such impressive results, we are excited to be in talks over supplying a third unit to the Autobend team. 

Learn more about the containerised Nitropak system.

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