TPT November 2023

TECHNOLOGY

AI-supported digitalisation in metal processing and optimisation

the specific price for their sheet metal parts at the push of a button.” The calculated sum is based on the contributing cost factors for material, scrap and the manufacturing process –

TRUMPF spin-off Optimate develops solutions for AI-supported feasibility analysis and part optimisation. The cloud-based software it designed, which can be used both as an App and CAD plug-in, now has an integrated cost calculation. Job shoppers and OEMs who produce and design sheet metal -based products now only need one click to calculate the costs of parts. With the Optimate App, product designers can identify defective parts in advance and adjust them if necessary, even before they enter production. In addition to analysing individual parts, assemblies with up to 25 individual parts can also be checked for feasibility and optimisation potential. So far, the App has given a percentage indication of the potential savings of the optimised design compared to the existing variant. This was already a good indicator to determine the changed production costs. Regarding the individual manufacturing costs, the indicator held potential for optimisation of the product. “With the introduction of the integrated cost calculation, this is now even easier and more precise,” said Jonas Steiling, CEO at Optimate. “Our users receive

With the integrated cost calculation, one click is enough to translate the percentage savings of several parts

Optimate App. The information stored with respect to machinery and tools is then also used for optimisation and individual cost calculation. With highly precise data entries for machines, production processes and materials, the results for design and costs will be even more accurate. Such cost forecasts then benefit not only the designers themselves, who can identify possible cost drivers already in the development process, but also other areas, such as purchasing, controlling and cost calculation for sales. This makes it easy for buyers and job shoppers to calculate the costs of sheet metal parts online. In the blink of an eye, the sales department can create suitable offers for even the smallest series or individual parts in a timely manner and without much effort.

for example the complete sheet metal processing from laser cutting to bending and welding. “When considering the overall costs, it must of course be taken into account that not only the material used is decisive, but also the design and the process steps required for it,” added Mr Steiling. “Users can rely on our concentrated sheet metal knowledge here: all cost parameters are based on the specific know-how of our parent company TRUMPF, which has grown over decades.” In addition to the material costs, costs for scrap, set-up and production times as well as machine hourly rates are also included. Based on the classification, companies in sheet metal processing can then break down the costs for the detailed product processing steps. Once the cost drivers have been identified, optimisation potential can be derived from this information. Users can also create their own profile in the

Optimate GmbH www.optimate.de

Tata Steel contracts Danieli Corus for new hot-blast systems in India

dome, with the dome refractories being supported independently by the steel shell. The design includes features that allow for refractory expansion, which have proven to be essential in achieving exceptionally long life-times with Danieli Corus hot-blast stoves. The new burners will guarantee improved mixing efficiency and stability. With hot-blast stoves built around 40 to 50 years ago and still in operation the technology has a proven track record.

India. The objective is to achieve greater operational and maintenance flexibility, while allowing for increased blast furnace production rates. With 3,230m³ working volume, and nominal daily production design of 8,700 tons of hot metal each, these blast furnaces were commissioned in 2008, 2012 and 2014. At the time of construction of the existing systems, provisions were made for such an expansion and the new stoves will be built in the available space directly adjacent to the third stoves. The new stoves will be equipped with the proven Danieli Corus “mushroom”

TATA Steel has awarded a contract to Danieli Corus for the addition of a fourth stove to the existing hot-blast systems in Jamshedpur (H and I furnaces), as well as blast furnace #2 in Meramandali, The new stoves will be built in the available space directly adjacent to the third stoves

Danieli Corus www.danieli.com

32

www.read-tpt.com

NOVEMBER 2023