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Enhancing Aluminum Extrusion Manufacturing with IoT: A Case Study of APEL Extrusions Limited
Technology Category
- Analytics & Modeling - Digital Twin / Simulation
- Functional Applications - Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
Applicable Industries
- Automotive
- Consumer Goods
Applicable Functions
- Product Research & Development
- Quality Assurance
Use Cases
- Manufacturing Process Simulation
- Transportation Simulation
Services
- Testing & Certification
The Challenge
APEL Extrusions Limited, a full-service extrusion manufacturer specializing in aluminum extrusion and finishing, was facing a significant challenge in testing die extrusion performance while limiting time and cost. The company, which has a presence in both Canada and the United States, provides aluminum extrusions for a variety of applications including residential and commercial construction, HVAC systems, recreational vehicles, and consumer goods. The aluminum extrusion industry has been experiencing an increased demand for flat rolled and extruded aluminum products, primarily from the transportation sector. This trend, expected to continue through 2020, has put pressure on companies like APEL to adapt to customer needs while maintaining high-quality solutions that meet extremely tight tolerances. A critical step in APEL's process of providing high-quality products is the testing phase that occurs before the actual extrusion process begins.
About The Customer
APEL Extrusions Limited is a full-service extrusion manufacturer that specializes in aluminum extrusion and finishing. Founded in 1972 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, APEL has since expanded its presence to Coburg, Oregon. The company services both western Canada and the western United States. APEL takes pride in being one of the very few full-service extrusion shops in North America, providing all services under one roof to maintain its customer-focused organization. The aluminum extrusions that APEL manufactures are used in a variety of applications such as residential and commercial construction, HVAC systems, recreational vehicles, consumer goods, and more. The company is committed to adapting to the wants and needs of customers while continuing to provide quality solutions that exceed extremely tight tolerances.
The Solution
To address the challenge of testing die extrusion performance while limiting time and cost, APEL employed the extrusion simulation software, solidThinking Click2Extrude. This software allows the company to simulate the extrusion process prior to production. APEL places a high value on designing business solutions that meet its customers' needs, and believes that extensive research is a crucial part of its overall extrusion process. The company dedicates many resources to scientific research, instrumental development, and die performance research. By using solidThinking Click2Extrude, APEL was able to run numerous simulations in a short period of time to better determine the outcome of specific die designs. The software also allows APEL to detect any visible or invisible defects during the simulation, saving the company thousands of dollars by avoiding costly tooling, materials, and trials.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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