Increasing quantities after refurbishment

Since 2015, the two-cavity tool has been used to produce a so-called high-runner. The parts are delivered here in large quantities to the customer from the automotive sector, processed further and then installed in the vehicles of an OEM. The Grossbottwar site of the SteelCo.Tech Group guaranteed the customer that the tool would produce 5 million strokes, i.e. 10 million parts (depending on material, sheet thickness and component geometry). After this guarantee, the tool can continue to be used at the customer's request. However, it is recommended to order a refurbishment or at least a soft refurbishment to prevent production and delivery downtimes. Our employees therefore actively approached the customer.

A team of several employees used their expertise to inspect the tool and then drew up documentation on which parts should be replaced or repaired. In particular, the moving parts, which are exposed to high pressure and therefore abrasion, were examined in order to prevent future damage to the tool and therefore to the parts. Based on this, it was discussed with the customer how, when and to what extent the refurbishment should take place. As production of the high-speed machine is to be expanded to 700,000 units per year, the customer decided against a soft refurbishment and in favor of replacing various parts based on the assessment and the photos provided. The next steps will now be initiated in a kick-off meeting between the design and toolmaking departments.

Overall, the tool will then be in use until at least 2029. Thanks to the refurbishment, this is easily possible even with the increasing number of units.