Jul 2021 The Bending Academy: between process improvement and waste reduction
The training course with the “Bending Academy” has just ended, two intense days of discussions, tests and simulations that involved Metalmont engineers, designers and operators.
This type of theoretical-practical activities, carried out in collaboration with the sheet metal processing expert Emiliano Corrieri, has allowed the definition of 5 “K” factors to be used in the design phase. The “K” factors are the coefficients, defined mathematically, which allow the correct ” development “of the sheet metal in the production phase, that is the real size of the sheet metal piece which can then be bended perfectly, at the first attempt.
This work has led to 3 crucial improvements:
- to define standard parameters that allow to reduce the set-up times of the press-bending machines, standardizing and simplifying the bending itself;
- to reduce waste, thanks to correct bending “at the first shot”;
- to make assembly easier thanks to more precise sizing.
However, one of the most important aspects that came out during the course, according to Metalmont’s Technical Department manager, is the role of sharing a common line and approach for design and production:
“The creation and sharing of know-how and design logics between the Technical Office and the Production Department represents an element of stimulus for an even closer collaboration between departments, aimed at perfecting the design and production processes, reducing waste”
Antonello Zanet
Head of Technical Department
