PRODUCT REVIEWS
Folding with the FORMA Z
Various techniques such as press brakes , manual Up-folding and fully automatic bending lines offer different benefits . The semi-automatic Up / Down-folding capabilities of CIDAN ’ s FORMA Z have been designed with operational efficiency and ergonomic design in mind to enhance productivity and operator comfort .
“ The cost-effectiveness of a sheet metal forming machine hinges on several crucial parameters : operational and manual handling costs , machine price and production capacity . The CIDAN FORMA Z excels in reducing labour costs because it requires minimal handling and operators mainly reposition and turn sheets without pausing the machine . This streamlined process not only speeds up production but also reduces fatigue , allowing a single operator to efficiently manage the workflow from blank to finished part ,” CIDAN Machinery told ISMR .
Strategic design features , such as the front gauging function of the folding beam and an accessible back-gauge equipped with vacuum grippers , simplify programming and set-up thereby minimising tool changes . This is particularly beneficial , explained CIDAN , for short-batch production .
“ The FORMA Z ’ s rapid operation and multiple simultaneous movements ensure a very low operational cost per part , making it an ideal choice for both low and high-volume production needs ,” continued CIDAN .
An eye on the operator
The FORMA Z is designed with the operator ’ s ease in mind . Standard front gauging aligns with familiar press brake operations , reducing the learning curve . The movement of the folding beam directly defines the bend angle , simplifying the programming process . The machine ’ s software , developed by CIDAN Machinery , has a user-friendly interface and is suitable for upgrades , enhancing long-term operational efficiency .
“ Operating the FORMA Z does not involve strenuous physical effort . The machine ’ s design focuses on ergonomic principles such as optimal height positioning and Up / Down folding that eliminates the need to flip heavy sheets . Features like a deep and wide cut-out in the back-gauge and compact placement of vacuum grippers ensure easy access and minimise the risk of sheet jamming or operator injury ,” outlined CIDAN .
Folding on the FORMA Z .
Operator at the back-gauge .
A flexible focus
The CIDAN FORMA Z folder .
No tool changes are required when adjusting for different material thicknesses , thanks to automatic adjustment of the folding centre . The gentle folding process significantly reduces material surface scratches , extending tool life .
An automatic crowning system in the folding beam is desiged to ensure precise bends based on material specifications . Its flexibility allows for operation from different sides , accommodating complex profiles and large parts .
“ Enhanced safety features around the machine safeguard the operator from potential injuries . Its mechanical and electrical design [ requires ] less maintenance
and uses less energy compared to traditional press brakes ,” concluded CIDAN .
The CIDAN Machinery Group is a fullrange supplier of sheet-metal machinery and control solutions for multiple industries . Its headquarters are in Götene , Sweden . It operates manufacturing locations in Sweden , Switzerland and Austria , with office locations in several European countries , the United States and China .
Its acquisition in March 2022 of Swiss folding specialist , Thalmann Maschinenbau AG , has added another company to the Group that includes CIDAN Machinery Austria GmbH ( formerly coil-processing line specialist , Forstner Maschinenbau GmbH ) and nuIT GmbH ( which manufactures control software ). CIDAN itself ( formerly Göteneds ) specialises in sheet metal folders , shearing systems and rollformers . n
https :// cidanmachinery . com /
Changing tools on the FORMA Z .
62 | ismr . net | ISMR May 2024