Safe and Efficient Turning of Heavy Plate Components with the EasyFlipper

WBM improves safety, ergonomics, and throughput when turning large steel components.

WBM B.V., based in Asten (NL), specializes in complex plate products for the onshore and offshore markets. With the EasyFlipper from Teqram, WBM can now turn heavy and long plate components quickly, safely, and ergonomically—directly within the production process.

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Key Facts at a Glance

Customer
WBM Staalservice Centrum BV
Location
Stramproy, Netherlands
Industry
Plate fabrication; high-strength and wear-resistant steel
Delivery date
July 2024
System
EasyFlipper (including extension arms)
Part geometry
Plasma- and laser-cut components; frequent single parts and small batches
Part size
Material thickness approx. 4–40 mm (0.16–1.57 in); lengths up to 6 m (19.7 ft)
Part weight
Up to 300 kg (661 lb)


The Customer

WBM specializes in complex plate products made from high-strength and wear-resistant steel. With a modern machine fleet—including fiber lasers, plasma systems, 3D lasers, and press brakes up to 100 tons—the company manufactures demanding components for industrial applications.

The combination of heavy materials, large dimensions, and strict quality requirements places high demands on part handling within the production process.

The Challenge

Heavy and long plate components had to be turned regularly—for example, for deburring or machining the underside.

Until recently, this was done using slings or magnets attached to overhead cranes. This resulted in:

  • Physically demanding manual work
  • Increased safety risks
  • A minimum of two employees required per turning operation
  • Delays in the deburring process

In particular, long and flexible plates tended to shift uncontrollably during turning, posing a significant safety risk.

Half-tilted EasyFlipper, side view, operator using a remote control.

The Solution

WBM chose the pneumatic EasyFlipper from Teqram.

  • Safe turning of components weighing up to 750 kg (1,653 lb)
  • Turning cycles completed in just seconds
  • Operation by a single employee
  • Extension arms for long plates
  • Flexible use across multiple machines

The EasyFlipper is deployed wherever it adds the most value—at the plasma cutting system, the deburring machine, or the press brake.

The modular EasyFlipper concept includes support arms for handling long products.

The Results

  • Significantly improved workplace safety
  • Major ergonomic relief for employees
  • Faster cycle times
  • Ability to turn multiple plates in a single operation
  • Optimized utilization of the deburring machine

The EasyFlipper supports WBM’s core team without interrupting the workflow. It is ready when needed and delivers performance exactly when required—without slowing down the process.

Today, the EasyFlipper is used at both the plasma cutting system and the new Q-Fin deburring machine. Long plates with edge radiusing up to 2 mm are turned safely before being fed back into the machine.

As a result, the deburring process remains stable and efficient.

Long, heavy plates can be turned quickly and safely by a single operator.

Why Teqram

WBM was convinced not only by the technical solution, but also by the consultative approach.

“Visit on Friday, order on Monday. It was one of those purchases where you immediately know: this is the right fit.”
— Hans Biesing, Managing Director, WBM

The EasyFlipper was delivered on short notice and integrated directly into production.

Conclusion

With the EasyFlipper, WBM has sustainably solved the safe turning of heavy plate components.

The solution improves safety, ergonomics, and efficiency—while ensuring a smooth deburring process without physically demanding manual work.

More Information

For additional information, please use the contact form below or reach out through any of our other contact options.

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