In an effort to reduce vehicle weight, all car manufacturers are now turning to lighter materials such as Aluminium, Ultra High Strength and High Strength Low Alloy steels.
The move means that in a very short space of time the bread and butter repairs on volume vehicles, such as the Opel Astra, will mean bodyshops will need to ensure they have access to the right technology, training and repair methods to carry out even simple repairs. Bodyshop equipment supplier Car-O-Liner says it is able to provide bodyshops with technology, training and new information to meet these challenges. Sales Manager Stuart Alexander says, "The construction materials used in many new models requires new repair techniques and different repair equipment, in order to repair vehicles safely and in line with manufacturer standards. Car-O-Liner offers a wide range of welding and joining equipment, to allow effective repairs on new generation materials such as high, ultra-high, and laminated steels.”
Stuart says that Resistance Spot Welders such as the Car-O-Liner CTR12000 are proving very popular with Irish bodyshops looking to ensure they are prepared for new materials and repair techniques. The equipment is also fully approved by GM for use on the latest Opel models. Stuart says, "The high power, medium frequency inverter operation of the CTR12000 is ideal for today’s newer materials and offers a process regulated system for true quality assurance.”
Car-O-liner also offers a wide range of MIG/MAG welding equipment, Riveting Tools, Spotters, Plasma Cutters and Induction Heaters. All of the equipment is supplied with full training and ongoing back-up and support from the Car-O-Liner team.