FOCUS ON TOOLING
The tool design process . Parts made by Paragon tools .
samples very early in the project design process to provide speedy assessment of its viability ,” it explained .
“ We can trial , develop and prove all press tools thoroughly before delivery to our customers ’ production sites . We work hard to replicate the final production environment of our clients to address any potential issues and ensure minimum hassle during installation , ensuring customers can start producing parts immediately ,” it added .
Using the latest SolidWorks and Cimatron 3D CAD design software , it gathers information for all elements of the tool design process from generating 3D solid models to producing drawings for parts and assembly , BOM lists for materials ordering and CAM information for CNC manufacture . Its CAD software accepts and interprets all commonly used , industry-standard CAD data allowing it to work directly with customer models .
“ Our ability to support customers at every step of the process , often working back from the ‘ concept ’ of the final product of the customer and using our expertise to design and build a specialist manufacturing tool , secures contracts . We have a unique offering as our high-tech initial tool concept work uses technology to evaluate the form , fit and function of a part before it goes into production . This not only allows us to highlight any potential production issues , but also drives the efficiency of production , designing the tools for ease of manufacture and specifically to suit the customer ’ s presses ,” explained Paragon ’ s general manager , Kevin Batty .
From design to manufacture
Its designers produce initial tooling designs which are reviewed , adjusted and enhanced before a final design is agreed , approved and converted into a complete working design and ready for materials ordering and part manufacture .
“ Every press tool part and component is produced and finished to exact dimensions and tolerances , thanks to our dedicated inspection and quality control department . Our Mitutoyo
Paragon Toolmaking was recently shortlisted as a finalist in the 2023 Engineering & Manufacturing Awards
CMM machine is linked directly to our design office , enabling us to import data from CAD and measure parts in full 3D and determine the relationship between the coordinates of the ‘ real life ’ part and the master model . From this , we can then produce detailed inspection reports ready for quality control sign-off ,” added Paragon Toolmaking .
CAM ( computer aided manufacture ) is integral to its manufacturing process . CNC machinists carry out all CAM programming and work from 3D models created by its designers , with data produced from the CAD design process .
Above and below : Late in 1969 , Carl Canty founded Paragon Toolmaking Company Limited .
Kevin Batty .
The toolmaker can choose from a range of CNC milling centres ( the largest of which has a machining envelope of 3.4m x 2.5m x 800mm ). Along with two other gantry machines , it can handle very large die sets and plates . A range of four smaller high-speed Mikron milling centres provide capacity for full 3D profiling and smaller part production . The company also uses CNC turning and EDM machinery .
Skills development recognition
Paragon Toolmaking was recently shortlisted as a finalist in the 2023 Engineering & Manufacturing Awards . The national UK awards event covers all elements of the manufacturing cycle from design to production , celebrating the achievements of engineers of all disciplines and manufacturing of all types .
Paragon has been shortlisted in the category of ‘ Training and Development ’, recognising the huge importance of manufacturing businesses ensuring that their workforces are equipping with the skills and expertise required to compete in a rapidly changing world and against a backdrop of accelerating technological change . The award celebrates the achievements of teams and organisations that demonstrate excellence in the training and development of its engineering staff .
“ Judges were impressed by our commitment to continued training which has brought huge benefits to the business , as the skill and dedication of the many employees who have come through Paragon ’ s training programme is a major asset and contributes to the business ’ continuing success ,” the toolmaker told ISMR .
“ All of the senior management team at Paragon has progressed through the business , having spent time in either design roles or on
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