Design and Development of a Tool for Optimizing Metal Bellow Production with an Eccentric Punching Machine
Trujillo Goicochea, Carlos Alberto (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025053018723
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025053018723
Tiivistelmä
This thesis aimed to create an eccentric machine tool for the fabrication of steel bands, specifically designed for use in expansion bellows installation, as commissioned by Compentek Oy.
The dimensions of the steel bands vary according to the specifications of the bellow to be installed, with sizes ranging from 300 mm to 700 mm. The development of these tools was prompted by the fact that the company has to order the clamps that will be welded to bands later and the dependence of stock availability and the use of space in the premises for storing these clamps. Another strong reason was that the clamp’s price has been increasing significantly during the last times, which in turn decreases the profitability of the products.
The foundation for this thesis was established through the work placement experience in the same company, which involved familiarization with the current manufacturing process and possible outcomes to improve the method.
The initial phase included studying tool design, the types of tool steels, and their hardening processes. The specific requirements for the tools were defined, and calculations were performed to determine the forces required for piercing, ensuring optimal functionality. Material selections were informed by literature and consultations with tool manufacturing experts.
SolidWorks, a professional-grade computer-aided design (CAD) software, was employed to model the tools and generate detailed production drawings. Upon review, the client expressed full satisfaction with the final deliverables, noting that the models accurately reflected the design intent and functional specifications. Consequently, the client has confirmed their intention to initiate the tool production phase, pending the acquisition and evaluation of quotations from a multiple manufacturers.
The dimensions of the steel bands vary according to the specifications of the bellow to be installed, with sizes ranging from 300 mm to 700 mm. The development of these tools was prompted by the fact that the company has to order the clamps that will be welded to bands later and the dependence of stock availability and the use of space in the premises for storing these clamps. Another strong reason was that the clamp’s price has been increasing significantly during the last times, which in turn decreases the profitability of the products.
The foundation for this thesis was established through the work placement experience in the same company, which involved familiarization with the current manufacturing process and possible outcomes to improve the method.
The initial phase included studying tool design, the types of tool steels, and their hardening processes. The specific requirements for the tools were defined, and calculations were performed to determine the forces required for piercing, ensuring optimal functionality. Material selections were informed by literature and consultations with tool manufacturing experts.
SolidWorks, a professional-grade computer-aided design (CAD) software, was employed to model the tools and generate detailed production drawings. Upon review, the client expressed full satisfaction with the final deliverables, noting that the models accurately reflected the design intent and functional specifications. Consequently, the client has confirmed their intention to initiate the tool production phase, pending the acquisition and evaluation of quotations from a multiple manufacturers.