Page 42 - MetalForming September 2017

Lean Press-Brake Operations
operators need to measure parts and complete changeovers. Fabricators also should determine if the number of tools can be reduced. Clamping sys- tems and precision tooling can drasti- cally cut tool requirements and decrease non-value-added time. (For more on time-saving tools and systems, see sidebar.)
5) Be a Cheerleader for Change
As anybody in manufacturing understands, the desire to implement new procedures often comes with resistance. Fortunately, there are prac- tices for implementing best-practice options on the press brake that will win over reluctant colleagues.
One way to secure engagement, input and buy-in is by encouraging participation and involvement among engineers, operators, managers, design staff and all personnel who are part of the change. A second strategy for gaining support is to start with a small
Lean Tooling Options
Tooling and press brake-manufacturers offer products that can help achieve lean goals and best practices on the brake. Tool-change systems, for example, enable fast, automatic tool changeovers, allowing operators to perform secondary tasks while changeovers take place.
Another option, clamping systems, are designed to reduce manual setup time on the press brake. The most advanced clamping systems offer automatic seating and clamping of the punch and die at the touch of a button using either hydraulic or air power. Manual clamping systems, which use a lever to secure the setups, are less expensive than automatic systems. While still requiring operator handwork, the levers offer benefits over tightening setscrews by hand—a process that requires a significant amount of operator labor.
Special tooling can be one of the best values when looking to remove waste, lower costs and improve safety. For example, a customized tool can help reduce or eliminate the need to flip sheets during bending, resulting in a large efficiency gain. Doing so also will increase worker safety, which must be a top priority throughout a fabricator’s lean journey.
change. Moving tool cabinets closer to the press brake, for example, is a non-threatening way to introduce operators to best practices. Finally, asking for feedback and listening to
suggestions can create an open dia- logue that illustrates the value of all team members, and that everyone is an important part of the lean process.
MF
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SOLUTIONS FOR QUICK DIE CHANGE
CLAMPS DIE TABLES DIE TRANSFER
• Die carts on rails
• Double die carts
• Dieposioners
• Custom die change systems
• Clamps- roller bars
• Bolster extensions
Hydraulic roller bars
Dual push-pull
Clamps
SERAPID | +1 (586) 274-0774 | info-us@serapid.com | www.serapid.com
40 MetalForming/September 2017
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