EX-TRACK® CNC Cutting System

Short Summary

The EX-TRACK® CNC Cutting TestBed is a compact, portable system designed to enable experimentation, validation, and deployment of advanced metal cutting processes using both plasma and oxy-fuel technologies. It integrates precision CNC motion control, automated torch-height regulation based on arc-voltage sensing, and a dual-process cutting capability within a single, user-friendly digital platform, supporting accurate and repeatable cutting of a wide range of metal materials. The TestBed provides a flexible and accessible environment for testing cutting parameters, process optimisation, and material behaviour under realistic industrial conditions, supporting Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3–7. It enables rapid Proof-of-Concept validation and hands-on experimentation for DeepTech applications in digital manufacturing, automation, and smart fabrication. Aligned with Industry 5.0 principles, the EX-TRACK® TestBed promotes human-centric operation, portability, and efficient resource use, while enhancing precision and reducing material waste. Within the CITADELS framework, it offers an accessible infrastructure for SMEs, researchers, and educators to develop, test, and demonstrate advanced manufacturing solutions.

Conceptual visualization of advanced metal cutting, showing a high-energy cutting process on a metal surface with sparks and a futuristic industrial environment.
Domain

DeepTech Area(s)

Other - Industrial Automation, Digital Manufacturing

Application Domain

Manufacturing

Hosting Institution and Principal Investigator Information
Name of host organization
ABICOR BINZEL Varilna tehnika d.o.o.
Name of building
Pomurje Technology Park
Physical Address
Plese 9 A, 9000 Murska Sobota
Website Links
https://binzel-abicor.com/SI/slv/
Institutional contact name
Goran Rajnar
Institutional contact email
info@binzel-abicor.si
Principal Investigator name
Goran Rajnar
Position / Institutional role
Director
Email

For access through CITADELS project please contact Pomurje Technology Park at info@p-tech.si or marko@p-tech.si

Funding source(s) for TestBed's acquisition
ABICOR BINZEL Varilna Tehnika d.o.o.
Technical Description
Hardware
  • EX-TRACK® CNC Cutting System: Dual-mode CNC cutting system integrating plasma and oxy-fuel technologies for automated metal cutting applications.
  • Motion system: Dual linear guide rails with rack-and-pinion drives enabling precise and stable movement across the working area.
  • Motorized torch lifter: Vertical axis system with 100 mm stroke for automated torch positioning and height adjustment.
  • Arc-voltage height control system: Automatic torch height regulation based on arc voltage sensing, ensuring optimal cutting distance and precision.
  • Digital CNC control unit: Integrated control system with user interface for real-time monitoring, parameter setup, and process control.
  • Cutting area: 3050 × 1525 mm (10 × 5 ft) working surface for processing medium-sized metal sheets.
  • Max. positioning speed: 3000 mm/min (118 IPM) for controlled movement during cutting operations.
  • Power supply: Input voltage 230 V / 120 V, 50–60 Hz, 180 W, 0.5 A.
  • Cutting capabilities: o Oxy-fuel cutting up to 100 mm thickness o Plasma cutting up to 35 mm thickness.
  • Safety and auxiliary systems: Integrated crash sensor, plasma
    interface, and automated control features supporting safe and stable operation.
  • System weight: 145 kg.
Software
  • Embedded CNC control software: Integrated digital control interface for machine operation, parameter configuration, and real-time process monitoring.
Standards that apply
  • The system is designed in accordance with applicable safety requirements for industrial machinery, including the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. In addition, operation complies with relevant occupational health and safety regulations for thermal cutting processes involving plasma and oxy-fuel technologies, ensuring safe and controlled operation in industrial and laboratory environments.
Application Cases
  • CNC operator training and process control - Hands-on training in CNC cutting processes, including programming logic, machine calibration, and real-time process monitoring in a controlled environment.
  • Validation of cutting parameters and materials - Experimental validation of new materials and optimisation of cutting parameters, including comparative studies of plasma and oxy-fuel cutting efficiency.
  • Proof-of-Concept for process optimisation - Development and testing of process improvements, including evaluation of cutting repeatability under variable operating conditions.
  • Educational and academic use - Use of the TestBed in workshops and practical exercises to support learning in CNC programming, digital
    manufacturing, and process understanding.
  • Demonstration and technology transfer - Use of the portable and self-contained system for on-site demonstrations at partner institutions or industry events, supporting knowledge transfer and awareness of advanced manufacturing technologies.
Potential Stakeholders

Non-academic stakeholders

Industrial partners

SMEs

Startups

Academic stakeholders

Undergraduate students

MSc students

PhD students

Researchers

Exploitation Scenarios
Internal academic research
No
Collaborative research with external academic partners
Yes
Contract research / Proof-of-Concept for industry
Yes
Pilot / DeepTech Deployment in operational environment
Yes
Training services (courses, workshops, certification)
Yes
Service provision (testing, benchmarking, validation)
Yes
Open access for walk-in users (e.g. open days / hackathons)
No
Further Information

Further information about this testbed can be found HERE.