Electric vehicles are revolutionizing the automotive industry in a way that has not been seen since the seatbelt became mandatory in 1967. Competition among OEMs is increasing and the modern day ‘race to the moon’ is underway, lead by manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Ford, GM and Volvo as they roll-out EV & hyrbid models off the assembly line. Not to be forgotten are more than 100 ambitious startups looking to make a name in the automotive world. Take a couple steps back in the supply chain and there are countless automotive suppliers watching the competition unfold, excited for the new market opportunities this will bring.
Metal stamping companies make up a large part of the automotive suppliers wondering where they will fit into the electric vehicle landscape. Many likely wondering what their new identity will be 10 years from now. It is certain that metal stampings will remain a major part of the automotive supply chain as we transition to EV, but the type of components that will be stamped is the question mark. A reputable stamping supplier that once specialized in powertrain components may soon find their stamping presses being used for battery trays and EV motor laminations. In order to stay agile and be prepared for any type of stamping coming through the pipeline, a supplier needs two things: First, the the willingness and unity to change even if it’s outside their niche, and second, the necessary equipment and processes to support the evolution.
In the case of A.J. Rose Manufacturing Co., they recently invested in new equipment intended to support the markets of the future. That equipment is a newly-built servo press from Aida. This will be the 58th press at A.J. Rose and also the largest press at 1375 tons. At this tonnage, it opens doors to new markets and product lines with the ability to to produce larger parts and run thicker material. They are adapting to the market, not expecting the market to adapt to them. At a bed size of 191” x 70” and a 20 inch stroke, A.J. Rose will offer more capability to their customers looking for large stampings. A purchase of this magnitude was a decision based partly on current necessity and partly on strategic forecasting of future demand. A.J. Rose is positioning themselves to support the increased sourcings in battery plates, battery boxes, battery trays, large brackets and similar housing components that are becoming popular in the EV space. In order to be nimble in these new markets, the press will be capable of running transfer tools or progressive tools, and the servo motor allows for variable speeds and advanced forming capabilites, such as dwelling at the bottom of the stroke. These features make this a Swiss-Army knife of stamping presses, capable of forming metal into unique geometries in a wide range of size and thickness. This is what puts a supplier in a position for growth, making them attractive with an exisiting customer or one brand new.
A wide range of OEM customers turn to A.J. Rose for high-precision, high-quality metal stampings, therefore it is crucial to maintain their reputation as an innovator in the industry. Having such a reputation associated with their brand helps to establish credibility and lends to partnerships with up-and-coming EV startups. Out of many startups gaining momentum in the EV space, it will certainly narrow down to a short list of companies that rise to the top and begin serious competition in the pure EV markets.
A large pit is dug roughly 20 feet into the ground to prepare for the press. Supporting walls are poured from cement within the hole and a connection is made to the existing underground scrap-removal conveyer (right side).
A gantry system is used to support the weight of the press as it is assembled and secured to the foundation.
The press is assembled and secured in the pit. Capacitors are installed in the back.
