The e-POWER provides superior accuracy, precision and increased output. Below, right: Davi debuted e-POWER at Fabtech 2023.
February, 2024- A ramp-up in infrastructure development, and escalating needs in markets like transportation and energy, are expected to propel growth in metal fabrication over the next decade. The rush to cater to projected demand for steel plate has manufacturers looking to adopt custom roll bending machines that can support eco-friendly energy efficiency and enhance part quality.
Davi, which builds plate and angle rolls and rolling machines, has a dealer network across the U.S. and Canada, plus a sales, service and technical center in Dallas that supports machine demonstrations and conducts operator training for customers.
At Fabtech 2023, Davi introduced e-POWER, a fully electric plate roll. The new line, which has a compact footprint, gives companies a fresh approach to plate processing.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
“More and more customers were talking with us about their challenges to achieve cost efficiencies and environmental sustainability,” says Ettore Giambetti, general manager for Davi Inc. “We began to consider possible solutions from a hybrid to a fully electric machine. We invested in research and development and identified the right team members.
“Our customers are competing in a rapidly evolving market where energy efficiency, along with consistent part quality, are critical objectives,” he continues. “The e-POWER line equips companies to achieve those goals.”
The new product line proved to be a magnet for visitors during Fabtech. “Davi changed the DNA of its plate roll technology to engineer e-POWER for superior accuracy and precision,” continues Giambett i. “It was a huge traffic generator for us. People were surprised to see an all-electric plate roll with a small footprint. The performance results they saw during the live demos opened the door to an exchange that allowed us to educate visitors about the machine’s potential. And the feedback we received was invaluable.”
The electric plate roll has a positioning accuracy of 0.05 in. compared to 0.1 in. in conventional plate rolls. Next-generation actuators also support higher accuracy.
Multiple axes accelerate the rolling process, allowing the operator to work faster and more efficiently. Instead of performing one action at a time, an operator can execute several tasks at once. In addition to recouping lost minutes and labor costs, the ability to streamline the workflow means increased output, shorter turnaround times and improved profitability.
The electric plate roll’s compact size also contributes to improved productivity. Operators have better access to the machine, which means easier material handling. These features contribute to productivity gains while creating a more comfortable, safe work environment for operators.
On display at the EMO Exhibition in Hanover, e-POWER demonstrates superior accuracy and precision.
IMPROVED REPEATABILITY
“A manufacturer can take on more jobs and complete them in less time while improving repeatability,” says Giambetti. “The e-POWER’s repeatable, reliable results provide the flexibility to meet the demands of a variety of applications.”
“A small job shop that handles a high mix of low-volume jobs may not find it practical to invest in the e-POWER’s advanced speed and accuracy,” he adds. “But high-volume job shops with precision applications, as well as OEMs, would be prime candidates for an all-electric system and its advantages.”
In addition to streamlining workflow, the electric plate roll uses a start-and-stop system that contributes to low energy consumption.
“Compared to a hydraulic plate roll, e-POWER’s ability to reduce energy usage minimizes the machine’s ecological footprint,” says Giambetti.
Maintenance requirements for the new line are also simple. Its design minimizes the need for operator intervention and eliminates the common leakage points found in traditional equipment with hydraulic control units. Maintenance tasks are cleaner due to a unique actuator component that also contributes to the machine’s overall durability and longevity. Fewer components mean faster and simpler installation. And, the machine is silent in both standby and operational modes.
“Our goal was to eliminate unnecessary complexity and the complications that can arise during installation,” Giambetti says. “The machine’s design makes it easy to integrate into a variety of production floor layouts. When it comes to installation, function, end-product quality and sustainability, e-POWER is a game changer.”
Davi Inc., 888/282-3284, http://davi.com/
