PRODUCT REVIEWS
Progressive die stamping design process
AutoForm Engineering GmbH, a supplier of software solutions for stamping and BiW assembly processes, has unveiled its latest software version, AutoForm ProgDie R13.
“ This version provides new capabilities and enhancements specially developed for users working in progressive dies. AutoForm ProgDie R13 features reduced file sizes, enabling significantly smaller simulation files without compromising results or influencing engineering decisions,” said AutoForm.
“ AutoForm ProgDie R13 introduces new features and enhancements for progressive die-makers. The software is enhanced by the self-symmetry feature, which was previously available only in AutoForm Forming. Users can now import self-symmetrical parts as a whole or as a symmetry section and easily create a complete strip layout. The self-symmetry feature can be flexibly applied throughout the whole design process. The software also offers a unique feature which enables users to work with two separate self-symmetrical parts within a single strip layout. The advanced layout options enable optimal strip layout design with minimal material consumption,” it added.
This latest software version assists users in creating a 3D strip plan with an enhanced intuitive drag-anddrop 3D design interface, which significantly simplifies the design process. There is also a new capability to flexibly reorder independent geometrical features, such as forms and holes, group them and make adjustments directly within the strip layout.
With AutoForm ProgDie R13, users can focus more on the design process, rather than on the order of the geometrical features( as these can be arranged later directly on the strip layout). AutoForm ProgDie R13 also introduces enhancements in the evaluation of press forces.
“ Press forces were previously calculated only at synchronised time steps in the stamping process, without considering what is happening between these steps. With AutoForm ProgDie R13, users can consider intermediate time steps for more precise evaluations. Detailed insights into press forces help users to more easily identify potential issues and [ better understand ] the evaluation of press forces during the progressive diestamping process,” outlined AutoForm.
Dr. Markus Thomma, CMO of the AutoForm Group, concluded:“ With AutoForm ProgDie R13, users have more flexibility in designing the progressive die stamping process and can gain deeper insights to quickly identify problems that might occur in practice.”
AutoForm is a provider of software for product manufacturability, tool and material cost calculation, die face design and virtual stamping as well as BiW assembly process optimisation. n
www
. autoform. com
Plasma cutting showcase at S & S in Essen
Kjellberg Finsterwalde presented several plasma-cutting technology innovations at SCHWEISSEN & SCHNEIDEN 2025 in Essen, Germany, this September. Visitors saw daily live demonstrations on its stand, with the opportunity to experience technology firsthand by trying handheld plasma cutting.
Its iQ-series plasma cutting systems enables precision cutting up to 130mm, exact contours, precise holes, bevel cuts and versatile applications such as marking, notching or punching. The modular design allows flexible adjustment of cutting performance to meet growing production requirements. Digital consumables monitoring helps to ensure maximum utilisation of consumables while maintaining high cutting quality. High cutting speeds offer greater efficiency and lower costs per metre cut. Automation and eService make these plasma cutting systems a future-proof solution, the company told ISMR.
With the Q-Torch Auto Change System, Kjellberg Finsterwalde also presented a solution for automating plasma cutting at SCHWEISSEN & SCHNEIDEN 2025.
“ The system enables rapid precision changing of torch heads without any operator intervention. This saves valuable machine
Image: © Kjellberg Finsterwalde
The new iQ and the Q-Torch Auto Change System.
time, reduces downtime and significantly increases system availability. The system is based on an innovative changeable head lock with pneumatic control. The number of mounting stations can be expanded indefinitely and can be individually adapted to the respective production processes. Incorporation into existing Q systems is possible. The QR code for tool identification ensures that the correct technology is always prepared for each cutting task,” explained Kjellberg Finsterwalde.
The Q-Torch Auto Change System therefore supports operator-free plasma cutting, reduces handling effort and aims to ensure consistent quality.
The new CUTFIRE is a versatile innovation from the manufacturer for manual and
The Q-Torch Auto Change System paves the way for automated plasma cutting.
automated air plasma cutting. These devices not only offer a solution for handheld plasma cutting, but also for a wide range of cutting applications on CNC systems.
“ Availability in various power classes between 35 and 125 amps allows users to choose exactly the right model for their application. Models with a cutting capacity of minimum 45 A offer a CNC interface for easy integration into the production line, as well as a marking function,” said the company.
“ The CUTFIRE is a true all-rounder: from classic cutting and grid cutting to gouging and marking, it covers a wide range of applications,” concluded Kjellberg Finsterwalde. n
www. kjellberg. de
Image: © Kjellberg Finsterwalde
ISMR November 2025 | ismr. net | 81