Using Computer Systems For Sheet Metal Fabrication

Carrier Transicold manufactures refrigeration products serving the shipping industry. They are primarily constructed of sheet metal components fabricated with CNC punching and forming equipment. The competitive position in the marketplace is due in part to the ability to meet specific customer needs even on orders totaling only two units. Without the flexibility, accuracy, and speed of response time associated with computer systems such as CAD, CAM, CAPP and DNC, we would not have this competitive edge. This paper explains the five-year evolutionary process of implementing these systems that have been responsible, in part, for an eight-fold reduction in part processing time and an increase in annual production of three times. The paper will detail each systems installation, conditions prior to and after, and the associated advantages and disadvantages of each system.