In some situations, speed is of the essence. Think of self-styled “fast food” or “quick service” dining establishments. If such restaurants are unable to provide quality food quickly enough, their clientele may question the business model.
In many situations, however, the speed at which a good or service can be provided is less important than the quality. Although timing clearly does matter, speed doesn’t trump effectiveness. This is especially important to remember during pre-production.
When it comes to Finite Element Analysis, more companies than ever are putting this new technology to use at various points in the production process. Everything from the probability of fractures in ceramic components to a tendency toward buckling in honeycomb structures has been analyzed by this method.
To some people, adding an extra step to your production process may sound counter-intuitive; however, if that step is to consider Finite Element Analysis (FEA), then it might not sound so crazy after all. By adding FEA to the mix, chances are high that you will shave both time and expense off your pre-production process and bring your product to the market quickly and efficiently.
Most people seem to think that faster is better.
Americans enjoy fast food, instant messaging, and even (believe it or not) new quick-cooking slow cookers. While not everything is better faster, we recognize that manufacturers could potentially save money if they were able to collapse the amount of time spent in the pre-production phase.
Adding an extra step to a process is rarely considered efficient. After all, streamlining steps usually means that tasks are accomplished more quickly. However, if the added step is designed to save time and money in the long run, then would it not be worth considering?
This is the case with Finite Element Analysis (FEA). It’s an extra step in the process, but it’s an important one.
A considerable increase in the demand for the use of finite element analysis in product design is predicted for the coming years. It’s no wonder, considering that the benefits of using finite element analysis (FEA) include:
If you are relatively new to the manufacturing or construction field, the term finite element analysis may seem both unfamiliar and intimidating. However, we assure you that it’s one concept well worth looking into on a number of levels. For one, it has the potential to save lives, decrease accidents and prevent public relations nightmares. Allow us to explain using metal stage supports as examples.
When your product represents a structural component of your customer’s purchase it sure better be structurally sound. Who can afford a costly recall or, even worse, be responsible for a personal accident? To help ensure against part failure American Hydroformers employs exacting Finite Element Analysis (FEA) procedures.
It does not matter where you look, you will always find information on how various companies and organizations have used an engineering simulation as part of their strategy when it comes to development. One of the best examples of engineering simulation is FEA or Finite Element Analysis.
At American Hydroformers we recently obtained and implemented a new Faro Edge Scan Arm HD that enables enhanced product development, inspection, and quality control. As a 3D scanning and probing device, the Faro Edge Scan Arm HD provides capabilities such as rapid prototyping, reverse engineering, 3D modeling and rapid point cloud collection and comparison. Ideal for scanning challenging materials, the Faro Edge Scan Arm HD also allows for contact and non-contact measurements.
Acquiring this new Faro Edge Scan Arm HD will allow American Hydroformers to probe virtually any part or tube and collect all of the data needed to reproduce it. With up to 2,000 actual points per scan line, extreme resolution and high accuracy, we are able to reproduce even the most intricate parts and components. The actual setup of the scanning arm features an extra wide scan stripe as well as fast frame rates. This allows for increased productivity with the large coverage area and the reducing scanning times.
In addition to the Faro Edge Scan Arm HD, our in-house capabilities also include the utilization of AutoForm Hydro simulation software as well as FEA simulations. Our team of engineers are trained and regularly updated on this software which provides a comprehensive understanding and analysis of the entire hydroforming process. By employing this software in-house and utilizing the simulation process, we supply our customers with rapid verification, shorter development time, and improved process reliability.
By enabling better price controls and reduced tooling expense, American Hydroformers provides a cost-effective source for part production. Unlike other metal forming techniques, hydroforming allows for increased part strength, lower part weight, and greater design flexibility, while also improving overall part quality. Contact American Hydroformers to see how you can reduce your tooling and part costs.
