Ian Handscome, Composites Manager, explains their work flow process before SigmaNEST wasted a lot of time and material. “We cut the resin impregnated carbon fiber and lay this up on the pattern to produce a mold about 6mm thick”, explains Handscome. “Making the mold from carbon fiber ensures that it expands and contracts at the same rate as the part, guaranteeing accuracy.”
Tests showed a material usage reduction from 6 to 4 sheets with SigmaNEST – significantly better than others being evaluated. “Carbon fiber is costly so avoiding waste is a priority,” Handscombe added. “Initial waste rates were around 40%. SigmaNEST has halved these figures, saving us about £70,000 per year.”
Responsiveness was also crucial. Previously laminators waited for molds and carbon fiber kits. With SigmaNEST, these are planned and cut days in advance allowing work to begin immediately.
SigmaNEST paid for itself in three months and is hugely important to our company.
SigmaNEST paid for itself in 3 months. It is the driver for the company’s continuous improvement programs. The new process created additional business in aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and marine where flexibility, low weight, and strength of carbon fiber is important. Prodrive is implementing a 24 hour operation with SigmaNEST taking on an expanded role.
Smucker Laser enhances efficiency and control in metal fabrication by integrating SigmaNEST with SigmaMRP, improving quoting accuracy, job tracking, and overall operational management.
Tosec, a metal processing company in Zwolle, in the Netherlands, employs around 100 people and uses SigmaNEST solutions for efficient sheet metal processing and sustainable production.
Hutchinson Engineering Ltd. has implemented SigmaNEST, a comprehensive software solution for sheet metal fabrication, which has streamlined their operations, improved efficiency, and significantly reduced the quotation process.
Microlaser Srl implemented SigmaNEST and SigmaMRP software, leading to leaner and faster production with improved workflows and reduced order processing time.
Mecal Srl reduced their programming time by 300% by implementing SigmaTUBE and SigmaNEST, resulting in improved efficiency and integration with their management system.
Powertrans increased productivity and reduced errors by implementing SigmaNEST for automated nesting, tracking, and reporting. The software enabled competitive manufacturing with streamlined workflow and customized reports.
