Lodent Precision brings design in-house

One of the largest toolmakers in the UK, based in Brownhills, West Midlands, Lodent Precision previously outsourced its press tool designs, as do many press toolmakers. While subcontracting will be considered in future, this will only be as a result of insufficient capacity in house, however. Now, having its own designer, the company says it can gain benefits by establishing its own standards, working to those standards throughout the company, not only from design but also in machining and inspection. Mr Hogg has a wealth of knowledge, having worked in the industry for more than 30 years. His knowledge of single op, progression and transfer tools of plate or cast construction is extensive and well regarded, and matches Lodent Precision's core tooling products perfectly, says the company. The company adds that its toolmakers will be able to work closely with Mr Hogg and its machinist's to resolve any issues that arise during tool assembly and try-out. Over the past 12 months, Lodent has seen the benefit of simulation to prove the process before tool design and so have its customers. This establishes the tool layout and exactly how many stages are required to produce the part and the dimensions required to allow for spring back etc and has supported the delivery of tooling on time, says Lodent Precision. Now, by adding in house design to simulation, the company says it is closing the loop for its customers and controlling all aspects of work, following acceptance of a customer order. To support its design operation, the company has installed Visi -Progress tool design suite from Vero. With current enquiry levels for new tooling described as good, the company says it is confident in investing, with the next move likely to be to increase its CNC milling facility.