New Addition to Segmented Lineup
Proto-1 is excited to announce another machine to our segmented end forming line up! In the past, Proto-1 offered a TSM-3.5 and a TSM-8.0. Proto-1 was approached by a current customer within the automotive industry with the task of expanding 4 to 6 inch tubing. While the TSM-8.0 could end form tubes up to 8.0 inches in diameter, the customer didn’t need that amount of capability. Proto-1 saw an opportunity to create a machine that would end form tubes up to 6 inches in diameter, thus filling in the gap between the TSM-3.5 and 8.0 and meeting our customers requirements for their project.
As a result, the TSM-6.0 was created. The TSM-6.0 is a single or double head tube sizing machine for tube and pipe up to 6 inches.The first TSM-6.0 is a double head variant allowing the machine to have two tools installed both running independently of each other. This capability increases efficiency without having to change over to another tool for parts that require another process. The current TSM-6.0 in production will be tasked with expanding 4 to 6 inch tubing followed by a slotting operation on install on the other head.
Quality: Machine Alignments
Quality at Proto-1 doesn’t start and end at our quality control lab. Our quality starts at our machine shop floor where the majority of our parts are made. After an analysis in our quality lab, the parts are then moved to the assembly floor.
Once the machine is assembled, our technicians perform a machine alignment check using a Faro Edge Arm to verify proper alignment. This step is one of the most critical during the build process. An unaligned machine can cause a wide variety of issues and ultimately lead to tube end forming that will consistently be out of tolerance. A properly aligned machine will provide accurate end forming, increased machine longevity, and less wear on tooling.
New Team Member
We would like to take the time to welcome our newest member to the team, Michael! Michael will be assisting in our electrical department with machine wiring and electrical panel assembly.
Virtual Tour V2
Make sure to check out our updated production of our virtual tour! Click the picture below to see our virtual tour!
