Thicker in the press

摘要

It's not uncommon for a press to combine stamping, deep drawing, and cold forming to produce complex parts. But sheet metal extrusion processes are normally expected to thin out a sheet as it runs through the press. According to Textron Fastening Systems in Troy, Mich., the company is bringing to the United States a system that can thicken parts in areas where more strength is needed. Textron, which has been operating the system in Germany, is installing a 1,000-ton press at its Jackson, Mich., stamping facility and plans to offer the process by May of next year, in time for automakers' 2005 models.