BENDING TO CUSTOMER NEEDS INSPIRES COST-EFFECTIVE NEW TUBE FORMING SOLUTION FROM ADDISON-MCKEE.
31 January 2003 - Addison McKee

World-renowned for their tube bending technology, Lancashire-based Addison-McKee has long been recognised for the design and supply of precision tube forming machinery for highly complex automotive, industrial and heating and ventilation requirements.

In this case, a compact solution was required for a multi-radius CNC machine capable of bending tubes of up to 20mm diameter in either a left-hand or righthand
configuration.

Taking their exceptionally versatile DB 20 EST model as the starting point (a machine offering the quite unique feature of both left and right-hand rotation of the bending heads as standard), Addison-McKee, set about creating an all-new solution: the Databend DB 20 ESR - a 5-axis, multi-radius, electrical /pneumatic powered bending machine, capable of bending tubing of up to 20mmmax. dia. and incorporating a multi-stack bending die.

Space saving.

Traditionally, with Addison-McKee, electrics are cabinet-housed alongside the machine inquestion. In the case of the new DB 20 ESR, however, all electrical components were incorporated beneath the operating bed. For additional space saving - and enhanced operator safety - all moving parts of the bending system were contained within a completely integrated guard system, with two front mounted laser safety scanners ensuring that no external guarding during operation was required. The result? A total footprint of just 2.5 sq. metres.

Cost reduction of around 25%.

Commenting on the development of the new Databend DB 20 ESR, Addison-McKee sales & marketing director, Peter Chapman said: “ This new Databend model was a major achievement for our in-house design team. Through innovative engineering, not only was a machine requiring an absolute minimum of floorspace designed, but an overall customer cost saving of some 25% was also achieved. With a novel approach to meeting required health and safety issues we have produced a compact, highly versatile model that fully meets CE requirements.

Maximum clearance.

To allow for maximum clearance of components during the bending cycle, as well as any ancillary fittings, flanges or brackets, a high tool location area was incorporated into the design. Whilst to allow several bend dies to be accommodated, (from 3 to 6 dies depending upon tube diameter and movement possibilities) the DB 20 ESR was equipped with a fully programmable Z (vertical movement) axis. For additional cost-saving, no mandrel assembly was required for the basic machine, but one could be easily fitted as an option.

Whilst the standard DB 20 ESR machine can be used in either the left or right-hand
configuration, a variant has also been subsequently developed to permit either left or righthand bending in the same programme configuration.

Latest Mark V control system.

The new Databend DB 20 ESR also benefits from the use of Addison-McKee’s advanced Mk V control system, an extremely user-friendly model combining powerful technology with a vast range intelligent features.

Based around the latest F145 Siemens computer hardware and complete with integral touch screen, the system is simple to programme for any tube development application and – via a unique “teach mode” facility – can “learn” individual manufacturer configurations and then run each sequence on request. Whilst high-definition 3-D graphics, 3-D modelling and time-saving diagnostics provide market leading quality, flexibility and value for money.

Fully supported.

In keeping with all Addison-McKee machines, the Databend DB 20 ESR machine is
supported by a fast response, round-the-clock parts service and on-site assistance service manned by a large team of skilled service engineers. With over 3,000 machines installed worldwide, the company enjoys a global reputation for innovative solutions linked to a firm commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of its customers.

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