'It's a real game changer,' Walsall steel profiling firm says of new high tech plasma cutting machine - the first of its kind in Europe
RMP Products in Walsall has become the first company on the continent to acquire and operate a new high tech plasma cutting machine.
The steel profiling specialist says the investment in the new Viper Twin Head XPR460 CorePlus plasma cutting machine marks a significant step forward in its production capabilities and its support for regional employment.
The XPR460, developed by Hypertherm, is regarded as one of the most advanced plasma cutting systems currently available. Its arrival at RMP Products in Walsall reflects the company's commitment to investing in innovation and maintaining its position at the forefront of the UK’s steel profiling industry.
The XPR460 offers a new level of cutting precision, speed and efficiency. Thanks to its advanced arc control and reduced dross levels, it delivers cleaner edges, tighter tolerances and faster processing times. Capable of handling both mild and high-strength steels, the machine is particularly well suited to the large-scale and technically demanding projects RMP Products is known for.
Mark Edwards, production director, told how it has transformed the way they plasma cut. He said: “We chose the XPR460 because it allows us to cut thicker material with greater accuracy.
“It gives us better bolt hole quality, a cleaner finish and reduces our consumable use—saving both time and cost.
“The machine is also far more energy efficient, so we’re improving our environmental footprint while boosting our output.”
With the XPR460 now fully operational, RMP Products has significantly enhanced its profiling capacity. The machine's built-in diagnostics, intelligent torch height control and flexible material handling systems have already led to measurable gains in speed and accuracy.
Mark added that the improvements are enabling the business to deliver reduced lead times and greater value for clients working on time-critical contracts.
He said: “We’ve already cut several jobs from 60mm plate on our 15-metre bed, projects we couldn’t have quoted for before.
“Recently, we cut nine-metre-long parts out of 60mm steel.
“On average, we’re now cutting parts up to 40 per cent faster, which is a real game-changer.”
The new equipment also supports a broader range of steel grades and plate thicknesses, all while maintaining the company’s ISO 9001 standards.
Alongside its technical benefits, the installation of the XPR460 is driving new job opportunities.
With increased production capacity, RMP Products has begun expanding its team across multiple shifts and Mark is currently recruiting for roles including machine setters, engineers and apprentices.
He said: “One of the best things for me as a director is being on the shop floor and teaching someone how to operate a machine like this.
“We’re always looking for young, hungry individuals who want to grow with us.
“Seeing someone develop into a great operator is incredibly rewarding and it's a big part of how we support the manufacturing community here in the West Midlands.”
