How to Choose the Right Cut to Length Line for Your Business

Introduction

Investing in a cut to length (CTL) line is a significant decision. This guide helps you evaluate your requirements and choose the right equipment for your business.

Understanding Your Requirements

Material Specifications

Define the range of materials you'll process:

| Parameter | Minimum | Maximum | |-----------|---------|---------| | Thickness | ? mm | ? mm | | Width | ? mm | ? mm | | Coil Weight | ? kg | ? kg | | Material Types | CR, HR, SS, Al, etc. |

Production Volume

Estimate your production needs:

• Shifts per day
• Days per week
• Tons per month target
• Growth expectations

Sheet Quality Requirements

Determine the quality standards:

• Flatness tolerance (I-units)
• Length accuracy (±mm)
• Surface finish requirements
• Edge quality specifications

CTL Line Configurations

Basic CTL Lines

Best for: Small operations, lower volumes, basic quality

Features:

• Simple mechanical construction
• Manual or semi-automatic operation
• Basic leveling
• Rotary shear cutting

Standard CTL Lines

Best for: Medium volumes, good quality requirements

Features:

• PLC control
• Precision leveler
• Flying shear
• Automatic stacking
• Good length accuracy

High-Performance CTL Lines

Best for: High volumes, stringent quality, premium materials

Features:

• Advanced automation
• Multi-roll precision leveler
• High-speed flying shear
• Servo-driven components
• Superior flatness and accuracy

Key Components to Evaluate

Leveler/Straightener

The heart of a CTL line for quality output.

Consider:

• Number of work rolls
• Roll diameter
• Backup roll configuration
• Adjustment mechanism

Shearing System

Rotary Shear:

• Lower investment
• Good for light gauge
• Burr-free cut

Flying Shear:

• Higher speed capability
• Heavier gauge capacity
• More complex mechanism

Stop-and-Cut:

• Highest accuracy
• Lower speed
• Simple operation

Stacker System

Magnetic Stacker:

• For ferrous materials
• Fast operation
• Good for most applications

Vacuum Stacker:

• For non-ferrous materials
• Gentle handling
• Higher investment

Conveyor Stacker:

• Universal application
• Moderate speed
• Cost-effective

Line Speed Considerations

Match line speed to your production needs:

| Gauge Range | Typical Speed | |-------------|---------------| | < 1mm | 30-60 m/min | | 1-3mm | 20-40 m/min | | > 3mm | 10-25 m/min |

Automation Level

Manual Operation

• Lower investment
• Higher labor
• Suitable for low volume

Semi-Automatic

• Moderate investment
• Reduced labor
• Good balance

Fully Automatic

• Higher investment
• Minimal labor
• Maximum productivity

Floor Space Planning

Consider:

• Line length (typically 30-60 meters)
• Width for coil handling
• Maintenance access
• Material storage areas
• Crane coverage

Budget Considerations

Investment components:

1. Equipment cost
2. Foundation and installation
3. Electrical infrastructure
4. Training
5. Spare parts inventory

ROI Calculation

Factors to consider:

• Processing margin per ton
• Monthly production capacity
• Labor savings
• Quality improvements
• Customer retention

Supplier Evaluation

Assess potential suppliers on:

• Industry experience
• Reference installations
• After-sales support
• Spare parts availability
• Training capabilities

Conclusion

Choosing the right CTL line requires careful analysis of your requirements and thorough evaluation of available options. Friend Engineering Works offers CTL lines across all configurations, backed by 30+ years of manufacturing experience.