Bobcat Company has completed a $9.3 million investment in punch press automation and press technology at its manufacturing facility in Gwinner, N.D. The new press line, which recently began production, is expected to more than double press production capabilities, reduce energy consumption, lower noise levels and improve complex forming for sheet metal parts, all of which will help meet the increasing demand for Bobcat equipment. The company also invested an additional $1.2 million for entrance and building upgrades at the Gwinner location.
Bobcat partnered with AP&T North America, Inc., a provider of advanced production solutions, for the fully automated tandem line, which includes design and build of the new 2000 Ton Valveless Servo Hydraulic Lead Press at the Gwinner facility.
“Bobcat is one of the first companies in North America to invest in the future by implementing this automated solution using our new press technology,” said Dr. Christian Koroschetz, chief sales officer of AP&T Group. “This investment also supports Bobcat’s interest in pursuing sustainable, energy-efficient manufacturing solutions.”
The highly automated, closed-looped, valveless servo-hydraulic press is 70% more energy efficient than a conventional hydraulic press. The press also provides increased productivity and superior forming capabilities, which enables the pressing of more intricate and complex designed parts, along with shorter cycle times. The press line and automation are smart controlled via internet-based solutions.
Bobcat first became aware of the new press technology through a relationship with Wisconsin-based TCR Integrated Stamping Systems, an equipment manufacturer consultant and system provider for the metal forming industry. Bobcat partnered with TCR Integrated Stamping Systems to provide the new press control systems and magnetic quick die changes for all other presses in the tandem line.
“While visiting AP&T in Sweden, I was introduced to their latest automation breakthrough and knew it would provide a significant advancement for Bobcat. This unique solution provided the ability to move parts in excess of 200 pounds very quickly over great distances; it was perfect for them,” said Todd Wenzel, president of TCR. “In addition to the latest automation, AP&T also demonstrated their new valveless, servo hydraulic technology for me. It’s unique capabilities, too, had clear application for the Gwinner facility and is consistent with Bobcat’s sustainability goals.”
