PRODUCT REVIEWS
The FiMAB team, with Romina Klinger of RAS( right). Folding an electrical enclosure cabinet.
Bendex software
Another decisive factor for FiMAB was“ the ease of use of the RAS Bendex software.” At FiMAB, programs are created mainly on the machine, although office programming is also available.
“ The intuitive interface allows operators to adapt programs quickly to different enclosure sizes. Compared to alternative solutions, Bendex proved considerably easier to use,” explained RAS.
bending keeps the blank on one side throughout the entire process. Eliminating manual turning makes large blanks easier to handle while improving repeatability and reducing gauging errors,” added RAS.
Efficiency gains
Automatic set-up is one of the key contributors to the machine’ s productivity. While the operator loads the next part, the machine automatically changes tooling. No dedicated set-up programs are required.
“ Manual tool changes are eliminated, saving time and improving ergonomics. Production continues without interruption, even when manufacturing enclosure cabinets of different sizes. Particularly for individually configured enclosure cabinets, this automation ensures seamless workflow and economical batch size one production,” outlined RAS.
The UpDownCenter 2 has been in operation at FiMAB for three years, delivering measurable improvements across the entire manufacturing process. Material cutting requirements have reportedly been reduced by 17 % because many enclosure cabinets are now manufactured from a single blank, reducing both component count and production orders.
“ Bending time, from loading the blank to unloading the finished part, has been reduced by 66 %. Eliminating manual gauging, minimising set-up and adjustment work, and using automatic set-up have significantly increased productivity while improving precision and overall part quality. Welding processes are now 22 % faster. Because side panels no longer need to be attached and aligned separately, welding effort has been reduced significantly. The risk of assembly errors has been virtually eliminated, resulting in greater dimensional accuracy and highly repeatable production,” continued RAS.
Another deciding factor in the investment decision was the ability to manufacture box heights of up to 500mm, a feature rarely available in comparable systems. FiMAB also valued its close proximity to RAS: short distances, personal support and the opportunity to test demonstration parts reinforced confidence in the investment.
The RAS UpDownCenter 2 has now become a key element of FiMAB’ s manufacturing strategy. Fewer weld seams, bend mark-free surfaces, precise step bending, shorter set-up times and measurable productivity gains have made the machine a key element of FiMAB’ s manufacturing strategy.
“ Choosing the UpDownCenter 2 was the right decision for us. We work more efficiently, achieve greater precision and consistently deliver higher quality to our customers,” concluded Markus Fiedler. n
About RAS
RAS Reinhardt Maschinenbau GmbH is a leading global manufacturer of machines for sheet metal processing. Headquartered in Sindelfingen( Germany), and in business for over 85 years, its extensive portfolio includes folding machines, swing beam shears and forming machines as well as automated and customised manufacturing solutions for various industries worldwide.
www. fimab. eu /
RAS Bendex software controls programming. www. ras-online. de /
ISMR September 2026 | ismr. net | 71