BENEFITS RUBBER PAD FORMING
SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED SERIES – DEEP DRAWING VS RUBBER PAD FORMING
The initial investment in tools is extremely low for rubber press technology. That alone gives you a great advantage. But, to be honest, the variable costs for rubber pad forming are higher because processing takes more time. In case of conventional deep drawing, this is just the opposite; high tooling costs, but lower variable costs. When these are compared, a break-even point is reached. Below that point, rubber pad forming is more advantageous, above this point you should opt for conventional deep drawing.
In addition to the advantage in tooling costs – which facilitates the launch of a new product – you can easily add or combine functional properties with rubber pad forming in the product. For example reinforcement with ridges, so you can ‘cut back’ in sheet thickness and have less material costs, and you won’t have to provide your product with separate reinforcement. Or how about pressing round corners? This eliminates edging, welding and post-processing.
In addition, it is often possible to bring down the Total Cost of Ownership. The round shapes make products easier to clean, which in turn leads to lower changeover costs (i.e. the food market).
BENEFITS RUBBER PAD FORMING
Extremely suitable for small and medium series due to low tooling costs [5-10% of deep drawing tools]
Single Tool, time to market is short
Cost-efficient:
- Often possible to replace conventional techniques such as bending, welding and finishing by rubber pad forming
- Low Total Cost of Ownership due to e.g. improved cleanability [round shapes]
Easy integration of functional properties such as stiffness, lightweight, cleanability, flow and design
Not bound to sheet thickness & no surface damage
High tech appearance which supports your high tech product
Optimal flow and cleanability through round shapes
LIMITATIONS RUBBER PAD FORMING
Too expensive for very large numbers due to higher variable costs
Maximum sheet thickness approx. 3 mm [depending on shape]