Simpson Patterns adopt computerised pattern making.
The strategy of the Simpson’s Directors is one of business growth with targets to invest in new technology and expand its activities.Simpsons have continued their need to develop existing patternmaking capabilities from conventional manual processes to computerised techniques.
Being a Member of Cti, help was at hand to assist in the specification of the CAD/CAM software and trials on the available CNC facilities at Cti. From discussions and visits to Cti, a review of the rapid patternmaking CNC technology was carried out, and Simpsons decided to set out a programme of investment in the CNC technology with the purchase of a state-of-the-art, 5 axis, CNC patternmaking machine with a bed size of 2600mm x 1500mm and a z height of 1200mm. To complement this, a suite of CAD/CAM software was required to offer design and allow the development of customer drawings to provide the input into the CNC machining process.
To take advantage of the lead time required for new CNC equipment, CAD/CAM training and CNC machining trials at Cti enabled Simpsons to be in a ‘ready to go’ position when the new equipment was delivered.
The ability to CNC machine patterns using the technique of layer manufacture allows the optimisation of machine and tool stability when producing large section components. Furthermore, significant benefits can be achieved in material savings as the process allows the build up of patterns without the need for a complete solid interior, resulting in lower weight patterns, a feature particularly important with large pattern sizes. These techniques are used alongside traditional patternmaking methods to provide a complete solution to the modern demands of the foundry sector, achieving rapid manufacture and providing a more flexible working system.
Mark Rixham, Director of Simpson Patterns and Tooling, says that “the ability of Simpsons to take advantage of Cti’s experience in the rapid manufacturing technology of CAD/CAM and CNC patternmaking available at Cti has provided Simpsons with unequalled support in the specification and development of the rapid patternmaking process aimed at meeting specialised customer requirements. The business potential of such items has exceeded £250k and allowed the company to expand the workforce which is expected to continue for the foreseeable future as new markets and clients are developed”.
"The business potential of such items has exceeded £250k "
