VÄSTERÅS, Sweden, Aug. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- With the installation of two hydroform deep draw presses from Quintus Technologies, F&B Manufacturing has elevated both the capacity and capabilities of its Phoenix, Ariz., facility. The presses' flexible forming technology allows F&B design and development engineers to offer more options to serve customer production streams, while also addressing new applications and markets.
"Producing complex shapes and assemblies has set F&B Manufacturing apart since our founding in 1923," says Brian Morris, the company's General Manager. "Hydroforming is at the core of our success. Our two new Quintus presses replace decades-old hydroform presses that did not fit with our expansion plans. With this investment, we are elevating our capabilities and partnering with a well-established OEM. We're now in position to get the most for our investment for decades to come."
Both presses are the Quintus model QFM 1.1-800 Deep Draw Press, featuring a modular dual-tray shuttle system that allows F&B to draw up to 10 inches (254 mm) deep and accept blank sizes up to 43.1 inches (1095 mm) diameter, a 25 percent increase over previous capacity. Using high isostatic pressure up to 11,600 psi, parts can be formed in a variety of tough materials and thicknesses to tight tolerances with minimal thinning. Both presses offer the versatility to form with a programmable, movable punch, with the added capability to form with single-half cavity, block, and expansion tooling.
"Not only can we support larger parts, we have the flexibility of three forming operations in a single press, consistent with our goal of being a fully integrated supplier and a one-stop source for our customers," says F&B Sales Manager Misty Reynolds.
Long-term OEM partnership key to press selection
Before selecting the Quintus Flexform™ presses, F&B spent months conducting multiple reference visits and extreme vetting of several press manufacturers. "Machine build and proven performance were of course key in our evaluations, but supplier longevity and resources were equally important," says Mr. Morris. "At every step, Quintus proved to be the best choice. They were the most prepared to offer a long-term partnership."
To cement this partnership, F&B supplemented its order with a long-term Quintus® Care Program, a rigorous agreement that ensures flawless production, press operation, and equipment maintenance. The program provides for application support, high availability of spare and wear parts, and guaranteed and prioritized technical support. It also includes annual press inspections, training, and recertification of F&B personnel to maintain and elevate their skills.
"We may be experts in deep draw hydroforming, but we shouldn't need to be experts in presses too," Mr. Morris notes. "With the Quintus Care program, we shorten the learning curve, have predictable operating and maintenance costs, and an arrangement that supports ongoing collaboration."
To further strengthen collaboration, F&B and Quintus also negotiated a promotional agreement where F&B is a preferred supplier for the cooperative advancement of hydroforming applications. "F&B's Phoenix facility is an excellent demonstration site for continuing R&D with Flexform technology and to showcase their versatile production capabilities," says Ed Williams, General Manager – Americas, Quintus Technologies. "In addition, our companies will cooperate in joint marketing activities including trade shows, open houses, and contract manufacturing referrals."
"We are very pleased to be working with F&B as it elevates its sheet metal forming capabilities," Jan Söderström, CEO of Quintus Technologies, comments. "There is much innovation taking place in the production of aerospace engine parts, and having designed, built, and installed more than 200 fluid cell presses for major manufacturers worldwide, Quintus has much expertise to share."
About Quintus Technologies
Quintus Technologies is the global leader in high pressure technology. The company designs, manufactures, installs, and supports high pressure systems for sheet metal forming and densification of advanced materials. Quintus has delivered over 1,900 systems to customers within industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical implants. The company is headquartered in Västerås, Sweden, with a presence in 45 countries worldwide. For more information, visit https://quintustechnologies.com/
About F&B Manufacturing LLC
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, F&B Manufacturing has been in the business of making parts and complex sheet metal assemblies for the aerospace, military, automotive, semiconductor, and commercial industries since 1923. With a new building added in 2013, the company now has 81,000 square feet of state-of-the-art equipment technology that enable it to manufacture superior quality products with exceptional contour and tolerance control. Its wide array of core competencies is seldom found in a contract manufacturer. F&B's highly skilled employees have an average tenure of 10 years, and 70 percent of its workforce is cross-trained for maximum flexibility. The company was family owned and operated until 2011 when it was acquired by Thunderbird, LLC. To learn more, visit https://www.fbmfg.com/
SOURCE Quintus Technologies
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