Stretching Your Resources
Fall of the Artisan Operator : Extrusion Stretch Forming in the 21 st Century
A global manufacturer of aircraft structures and airframe assemblies was using antiquated stretch forming equipment to manufacture extrusion parts . While they were able to satisfy demand , producing parts that fell within their customers ’ quality specifications ( Boeing , Northrup Grumman and Lockheed Martin ) was challenging . The lack of process repeatability with their manually-operated extrusion stretch forming machines created certain process deficiencies , including a heavy reliance on skilled labor .
Capable of forming extrusions from 8 ” to 240 ” in length , the two new 20-ton Triform machines increased not only their capacity , but their overall efficiency as well . The twin machines also feature independent arm actuation , allowing for increased flexibility over the supplier ’ s original systems - which featured synced arm movement only .
Precision pressure and arm position control added to the supplier ’ s forming versatility , allowing them to form a larger variety of materials and part types than previously possible within a single machine configuration . skill required to produce quality parts repeatedly . Recipes can be developed , saved , and recalled on-demand , allowing less skilled operators to produce repeatedly consistent results .
In addition to programming pre- and post-load tension force , wrap speed , and angles , the sophisticated controls system manages the supplier ’ s heated tooling right from the machines ’ HMI ’ s . The result is a central operating station that manages the entire forming process .
To add to the dynamic capabilities of the stretch machines , a joggle-forming attachment was also included . This allows for surface transitions to be formed into the material while the part is under tension on the stretch tooling .
In the aerospace industry , even the slightest imperfection can dramatically affect the integrity of a formed part . As the number of artisan operators dwindles , manufacturers find themselves looking for new and better technology to ensure precise and repeatable results .
“ Modern operations can benefit greatly from a supplier who is on the cuttingedge of technology and understands the importance of accuracy and repeatability ,” said Beckwood President , Jeffrey Debus . “ Triform ’ s expansive product line , which now includes stretch formers , ring expanders , and joggle presses , allows us to cater to the evolving needs of the aerospace industry .”
To aid in the supplier ’ s ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on skilled labor , Triform included several specific technologies . Among these is a programmable control system with recipe handling for increased repeatability . No longer must the supplier rely on ‘ artisan operators ,’ who personally hold the knowledge and