Metaltek XB1200 CNC Plasma Beamline overview
XB1200 in operation
Built for real production environments
From material handling and machine access to the 8-axis robotic cutting system, the XB1200 brings 16 coordinated axes together in one production machine.
The XB1200 does the work of a complete structural processing line
The XB1200 combines common detailing and CAD-file import, automatic nesting, profile handling, complex cutting, part marking and the full range of structural fabrication work in one machine.
Our Technology
Six core technologies work together to make the XB1200 more capable than a simple beam saw, drill line, pipe cutter or plate table.
Automatic profile flow
Material is queued by the operator on the in-feed buffer. The machine feeds material across and through as required, then finished parts are fed onto the out-feed buffers.
Detailing-file workflow
The controller reads NC1/DSTV files from common structural detailing software including Tekla, Advance Steel, ProSteel, StruCad and Revit.
Open CAD models directly
Open 3D models from SolidWorks, Inventor, SolidEdge, Onshape and similar CAD systems. The system supports all profiles and generates cut paths automatically.
One machine, many materials
Cut channel, beam and column up to 1200 mm wide, equal and unequal angle, pipe up to 1000 mm diameter, and flat plate up to 50 mm thick.
Queue jobs and optimise stock
Nesting happens as files are imported into the job queue. The machine separates parts into materials, uses the stock library, and tells the operator which profiles and quantities are required.
Track parts without measuring
Part numbers, alignment marks, fold lines, welding symbols and other instructions can be marked precisely to reduce layout time and improve traceability.
XB1200 capabilities
The XB1200 supports the structural steel, pipe and plate applications outlined below.
All structural profiles
Beam and column, equal and unequal angle, parallel and tapered flange channel, square and rectangular hollow section, with etching and marking on all faces.
Typical work includes end copes, bolt holes, slots, flange and web features, mitres, weld prep bevels, square cuts, custom junctions and repetitive production without heavy manual layout.
Pipe coping and bevelling
Pipe components up to 1000 mm diameter can be cut on the XB1200. Weld preps can be applied at the same time, including saddle copes, mitres, circular holes and complex pipe intersections.
The pipe workflow supports profiling, bevelled connections and repeatable CNC cut paths from imported models or prepared files.
Plate cutting and bevelling
Sheet and plate components can be nested and cut inline with the other profiles. Base plates, cleats, brackets, gussets and custom plate parts are processed in the same workflow.
The default plate cutting deck handles plate up to 1200 mm wide by 4000 mm long, with longer cartridge options available.
BIM, NC1, DXF and 3D import
The XB1200 controller is built around direct file workflows. It supports IFC, NC1/DSTV, DXF, STP, STL, OBJ and IGS/IGES-style workflows for structural members, pipe, tube and plate.
Files from different sources can be intermingled in the same nest, allowing detailers and operators to combine project parts without rebuilding the job manually.
Features, advantages and benefits
The XB1200 delivers practical outcomes: fewer manual layout steps, cleaner data transfer from detailing to cutting, accurate holes and marks, less rework, and greater confidence in delivery dates.
Standard functionality is enabled at installation, with regular updates to maintain performance and capability.
5-axis pressure vessel cutting
The broader Metaltek content also included 5-axis pressure vessel and pipe-style cutting applications, with complex bevels, intersections and weld-prep geometry handled by CNC path generation.
Explore the dedicated page for specialised pressure-vessel applications, complex bevels and weld-prep geometry.
Supported profiles, file types and cutting work
This practical checklist shows the XB1200’s capability in one place.
Profiles and material
- Universal Beam and Universal Column.
- Parallel Flange Channel and Tapered Flange Channel.
- Equal Angle and Unequal Angle.
- RHS, SHS and other hollow sections up to 1200 mm x 600 mm.
- Pipe and CHS up to 1000 mm diameter.
- Plate up to 1200 mm wide x 4000 mm on the default cartridge, with longer cartridges available.
- Profile length is not theoretically limited; standard in-feed is 18 m and standard out-feed is 12 m.
Cutting, marking and fabrication tasks
- Copes, mitres, square cuts, end preparation and compound junctions.
- Slots, bolt holes, round holes, square cut-outs and custom shapes.
- Full bevel weld preps, including underneath surfaces where required.
- Plasma etch marking for part numbers, weld symbols, alignment marks, fold lines and instructions.
- Base plates, cleats, brackets, gussets and custom plate parts.
- Pipe saddle copes, holes, mitres, bevels and intersections.
Software and file workflow
NC1 is the industry standard structural steel file format exported by programs such as Tekla, Advance Steel and ProSteel. DXF files from 2D CAD can define each face on separate layers with leaders for bevel data and special layers for etching, quantities and profile information. STL and STP 3D models can be exported from 3D CAD systems such as SolidWorks, Inventor, SolidEdge and Onshape. STL is a practical, uniform exchange format for 3D models.
All compatible file types can be intermingled in the parts nest. The XB1200 does not differentiate between parts drawn or exported in different formats; the controller calculates tooling parameters and offsets from its internal database.
General Videos
Watch general XB1200 processing videos below, then explore the application pages for more specific examples.
Additional application videos and examples are included on the structural steel, pipe profiling and plate cutting pages.
We have greater confidence in our delivery dates than we have ever had before. There are few machines on the market which can handle the sheer array of profiles which the XB1200 can handle. Every week we find a new use and a faster way to process material with this machine.Kirk Matthews
Skrobar Engineering: Years into ownership, they described their Metaltek XB1200 as an absolute beast, backed by great support and a game changer for their business.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common XB1200 buying and operating questions.
Do I need special translation software to prepare cut files?
No. Files are imported directly from CAD and tooling parameters and offsets are automatically calculated from the controller database.
What types of files does the XB1200 open?
NC1/DSTV files from structural detailing software, DXF files from 2D CAD, and STL/STP style 3D model files from CAD systems such as SolidWorks, Inventor, SolidEdge and Onshape. Files from different formats can be intermingled within the same nest.
How do I price jobs?
The controller can open all selected files and provide a detailed spreadsheet with job variables. Cost columns can be edited for items such as cuts, holes, etch marks, feeding length and material weight, then totals are calculated based on the selected settings.
Can I preview the files before cutting?
Yes. The controller previews all parts and cut paths before cutting. A desktop version of the software is included so draftspersons can preview parts and check file validity in the office.
Do I need to purchase separate modules to enable extra functions?
No. The XB1200 is installed with compatible functionality enabled, so it can process the supported profiles and file types. Regular updates help maintain performance and functionality.
How do I nest parts?
Select the files for the job and the ProfileShop controller separates parts into their specific materials. Parts are nested into available material lengths from the internal stock control library. Offline nesting software is also provided.
How do I modify parts on the fly?
2D DXF files can be edited at the machine controller using a familiar CAD interface. Other formats such as NC1, STL and STP can be automatically converted to DXF and exported for modification in the onboard CAD software.
What is the thickest material?
The maximum thickness depends on the plasma power supply. The Hypertherm XPR300 is the standard model, with around 50 mm pierce capacity and up to 80 mm edge-start capability. A maximum 40 mm flange thickness is recommended when bevels and weld preps up to 45 degrees are required. Other plasma supplies are available to suit different requirements.
What profiles can this machine cut?
Hot-rolled structural profiles up to 1200 mm wide by 600 mm deep, RHS and SHS up to 1200 mm x 600 mm, pipe and CHS up to 1000 mm diameter, and plate up to 1200 mm wide x 4000 mm on the default cartridge.
What is the longest length it can process?
There is theoretically no limit to material length. The default in-feed conveyor length is 18 m and the default out-feed conveyor for finished parts is 12 m. Extra-long lengths can be supported on temporary roller stands if required.
What if I require technical assistance?
Ongoing technical support is available for difficult jobs. Remote login to the machine controller lets support staff see what is happening and provide direction to the operator.
Explore XB1200 applications and resources
Explore detailed information on structural processing, pipe profiling, plate cutting, CAD workflow, machine benefits and support.
About the Metaltek XB1200
Metaltek is a registered trademark of Advanced Robotic Technology. ART has been developing world-class CNC cutting machines since 1998. The Metaltek offer remains: superior performance and ease of use, broad capability, current technology with incremental updates, and first-rate backup and support.
Air Booster & Regulator
Low or variable air pressure affects cut quality and shortens consumable life. ART's Booster & Regulator System provides consistent air pressure over and above the shop air supply.
Read moreBuilt-in WiFi networking
The controller easily connects into your existing WiFi network for downloading job files. Also supports remote access and diagnostics for the ART service team.
Read moreCamfil Fume Extraction & Filtration Unit
Fume Extraction is essential for workplace health and safety, as well as the comfort of staff. The reverse pulse cleaning system ensures maximum performance.
Read moreHeavy duty AC servo drives
Coupled with precision planetary gearboxes provide fast positioning. Hardened and ground helical rack and pinion provides smooth motion with excellent edge finish on machining.
Read moreRefrigerated Air Dryer
Any moisture in the air supply will erode the plasma consumables very quickly. It is a requirement of the plasma system manufacturers to supply clean dry air.
Read moreWireless pendant controller
Allows the operator to get close to the action for optimal view during manual operations, or even stop the machine remotely from anywhere in the factory. Works in conjunction with touchscreen.
Read more