Elevating Our Sheet Metal Bending Capabilities with Offline Bending

At CAMM Metals, we’re constantly looking for innovative ways to improve speed, accuracy, and efficiency at our fabrication shop. One of the ways we accomplish this is by leveraging offline bending software in our sheet metal bending services. While this solution has become second nature for our team, it sets us apart from many other shops in our region. Though they have access to advanced machinery, very few businesses of our size fully leverage the power of offline setups like we do.

Unfamiliar with offline bending? You’re not alone! We’ll walk you through how this elevates our processes and improves the results we deliver on your project. 

What Is an “Offline Bending Program”?

Our expert metal fabrication team currently operates an AMADA EG 4010 and an AMADA HG 1303, two high-performance press brakes with the ability to execute precise, complex bends. We use AMADA’s VPSS3i Bend software to program these press brakes and create a seamless transition from digital simulation to physical fabrication.

What makes this program “offline”? It’s managed in the offices, rather than on the floor. That means before releasing any job to the shop floor, our engineers leverage this impactful tool to simulate bends by determining the exact bend sequence, tooling requirements, and feasibility of each job. This simulation helps us:

  • Identify potential crashes

  • Ensure we have the correct punches and dies

  • Stage complex bends across the length of our press brakes

  • Eliminate costly trial-and-error processes

Why Offline Sheet Metal Bending Gives CAMM Metals an Edge

Catching Issues Early

Offline bending proved invaluable on a recent expedite job. While running this software program, our engineer discovered that we didn’t have enough tooling for the required bends. Because of this early catch, we ordered tooling immediately, well before the part reached the press brake. As a result, we hit the customer’s deadlines without issue. 

Fewer Delays, Better Results

This capability drastically reduces the risk of scrap or errors. Complex designs no longer require lengthy prototyping, saving time and cost. That means we can deliver custom fabricated components faster and with greater accuracy than ever before. 

Additionally, offline bending means fewer stops and quicker setup times. The CAMM Metals team can verify bends, stage changes, and tooling needs well in advance, thus reducing delays and maximizing output.

Lower Costs

Accurate planning ensures we use the right material and set the machine up properly from the start. That minimizes waste and the need for rework, ultimately reducing the cost of parts for our customers.

A Bonus Benefit: Closing the Skills Gap

sheet metal bending

The manufacturing industry is currently facing a skills gap as many seasoned machinists approach retirement. In our shop, offline bending helps prevent these problems. 

Traditionally, becoming proficient on a press brake could take years. Today, thanks to this software, new operators can become confident and capable in just a few months!

And it’s not just making their ramp-up faster—it’s making it more exciting. Young machinists and engineers generally enjoy working with high-tech tools like those offered by our AMADA press brakes. At CAMM Metals, we’ve learned firsthand that this technology helps to attract, train, and retain top talent, all while simultaneously increasing productivity.

Exceptional Results from Start to Finish

Offline bending is just one of our cutting-edge, end-to-end metal fabrication processes. By investing in advanced tools and smarter workflows, we continue to serve as a manufacturing resource, not just a supplier, for our customers. 

Looking for reliable, precision sheet metal bending? Trust a fabrication shop like CAMM Metals, and request a quote today! 

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