As part of Stadco's proactive approach to reducing development lead-times, driving out cost and continuing to meet and exceed quality targets, we invested in formability analysis software in 1995 and have been conducting press tool simulations ever since.

From Stadco's unique position in the UK as both product developer and end manufacturer, Stadco have been well placed to integrate real world learning gained from our manufacturing operations back into our product development activities. This has been a key element for success in ensuring that our press tool simulation work adds real value.

Although most commonly applied during the product development process, press tool simulation is also used throughout the manufacturing cycle as an integral part of the continuous improvement process employed at Stadco.

Stadco utilises its press tool simulation experience to continue to satisfy the demands of our customers; from assessing component feasibility prior to styling approval, to developing tooling processes prior to CAD release to toolmakers, aiding tool-try-out activities and supporting cost reduction and quality improvement initiatives.

Stadco has extensive experience of AutoForm, PamStamp and DynaForm software with use of a dedicated cluster of high powered computer CPUs. This allows us to understand the best methods available for the simulation and ensures we meet the customer's requirements.

The Stadco formability team can provide a parallel service during the tooling process identification stage by assisting in virtual tool design. By using specialist software, tools can easily be 'virtually' built with only basic part design information long before any physical material need to be cut. This allows tooling analysis to start earlier and ensures costly mistakes are avoided.

Stadco also provides a circle gridding service to allow physical correlation to analysis data. By using specialist gridding technology, metal is prepared prior to pressing. It can then subsequently be studied to understand thinning and stretch patterns. The analysis technicians have widespread experience of circle gridding, providing services both in-house and at customer designated sites.