Cutting Dynamics Installs Hot Forming Press

Established in 1985, Cutting Dynamics, Inc. (Avon, OH) is an AS9100 and ISO9001 certified facility that provides complex parts for the aerospace and defense industries. Their 165,000 sq ft facility specializes in aircraft sheet metal assemblies, kitting, thermoplastic composite fabrication and hydroforming aerospace parts of all shapes and sizes. They recently partnered with Beckwood Press Company (St. Louis, MO) to design and manufacture a 75 ton hydraulic press used to hot form titanium structural components.

Capable of temperatures up to 1,600 deg F, this custom press uses electric cartridge heaters to provide even temperature distribution throughout the forming process, increasing the malleability of titanium and reducing springback. Utilizing nine zones of heat control in each platen, operators can maintain a constant platen temperature to within ± 5 deg F throughout the cycle. Additionally, automatic insulated door systems increase heat efficiency and maintain the desired temperature set points while facilitating easy part and tool loading.

The press structure is designed for Infinite Life using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The simulation software mirrors real-world manufacturing stresses to ensure the press is robust enough to handle the most taxing applications. Also, a PressLink™ remote support module offers fast, complimentary troubleshooting and facilitates program updates without the need for an on-site service visit.

www.cuttingdynamics.com, beckwoodpress.com