It is possible to manoeuvre dies quickly and safely on and off the table of power presses using a wide range of carrying consoles from Roemheld. Now, the maximum forming die weight that can be handled has increased by more than half from 32 to 50 tonnes with the introduction of a new console featuring an electrically actuated chain drive and support feet.

Roemheld’s latest console is intended for shortening set-up times when changing over batch runs in press shops where components are formed from large metal sheet, such as in the automotive supply chain. The equipment is either dedicated to one press and fixed in position, or supplied as a mobile unit on wheels that allows easy transportation between different presses. Special customised solutions are also available, including for handling even heavier loads.

Once at the machine, the carrying console’s integrated docking system, which is equipped with a hydraulic lifting column and foot lever for easy adjustment, ensures that it attaches firmly in position at the press before placing a die on to it by forklift or crane. An integrated chain drive moves the die at up to 2 m/min to its final position in the press via integrated roller and ball bars, positioning it with millimetre precision.

The equipment is available in different versions suitable for almost any type of press. It may be factory-fitted in the case of a new installation or retrofitted to existing presses. Of particular note, the compact design makes it suitable for use when the press bed is low or where space is limited. By integrating sensors and stops, it is possible to integrate the console into a partially or fully automated process, either via the power press control or a separate, optional control system.

For further information
www.roemheld.co.uk

Aalborg-based Mekoprint Mechanics has ordered a new press line from AP&T. The new line, the company’s third from AP&T, will not only increase production capacity, but also enable the manufacturing of large metal components.

“Following a period of great fluctuation in demand for our products, we’re now seeing a strong recovery from many customers,” says Karsten Møller, technology and product manager at Mekoprint Mechanics. “To increase capacity and strengthen our competitiveness, we’re making a substantial investment in new buildings and machines, of which, the new AP&T production line is an important part.”

Mekoprint Mechanics manufactures cabinets, chassis parts, front panels and other metal components for a large number of companies in different industries. For installation in the autumn, the new line includes a press with 500 ton of press force, a 1900 x 1600 mm press table and a SpeedFeeder for unloading. The order also includes two years of complete service and maintenance.

Just over three years ago, the company installed a similar line, which saw the addition of another press in 2019. But AP&T has an even earlier history of delivering equipment to Mekoprint.

“We’ve been collaborating with AP&T for decades and we’re thoroughly confident in their ability to deliver technology that meets our needs for reliability, flexibility and productivity,” says Møller. “Having access to quick, local service is also highly beneficial to us.”

Peter Karlsson, key account and area sales manager at AP&T, adds: “It’s great that Mekoprint is now strongly investing in the future and that we at AP&T are part of their expansion journey.”

For further information
www.aptgroup.com

A Plymouth manufacturer is playing a key role in helping to develop a new seating system for wheelchairs that improves function and corrects body posture. Source Engineering, a specialist in pressed and machined components, has supported Matrix Seating with a complex stamped part that acts as a locking clamp for the company’s micro modules, which are shaped to deliver customised support.

A 5-strong engineering team has worked with inventor Dr Steve Cousins to come up with a 11-stage progression tool capable of producing the ‘lock’ in spring steel; vital for delivering strength and flexibility at a unit price that works. Around 120,000 of the components have already been manufactured and delivered, with an increase in sales from the UK, mainland Europe, the Middle East and the US set to result in surging volumes.

“Steve approached us about coming up with a stamped metal part to replace what was previously a plastic and then hybrid component,” explains Pablo Gutierrez, technical director at Source Engineering. “He’d been to a number of other suppliers, but we were the only one prepared to invest the design time in trying to come up with a solution that worked.”

The 11-stage progression tool has been proven to deliver both parts successfully, with the firm’s wire erosion capabilities producing an accurate tooling insert that fits like a jigsaw to create the different circular and hex-shaped holes.

Dr Steve Cousins, founder Matrix Seating, says: “Our manufacturing is all completed in the UK and Source Engineering is a very welcome addition to our supply chain, understanding the potential of our product and going above and beyond to deliver parts that have come through a tough engineering challenge.”

For further information
www.source-engineering.co.uk