RDX (Robotic Die Expediter)
Even the best single cell die oven cannot guarantee that the die will be uniformly at billet temperature for the first billet in every run, or that “best practices” will be followed. For this reason, Castool recently introduced the RDX. The RDX expedites the scheduling and heating of the die from the time of its arrival from the die shop until it is installed on the press.
Although the die will be heated and moved according to a prepared formula, the press operator will continue to have complete control at all times, and will make all necessary decisions during every step in the process.
The Future
The technology of light metal extrusion has improved considerably in the past few years. Even the best extruders, however, are not yet able to make best use of the technology now available. The reason for this is that the variety of leaner alloys now being made to provide strength, physical properties and surface finish as well as increased ram speed does not nearly match the variety that would benefit extruders whose improved temperature measurement and control would now make their use possible. In the future, the extruder will have a broad spectrum of designer alloys to choose from. He can then take full advantage of the fact that he has very close control of the alloy temperature from the time the billet is heated until the alloy exits the die in the desired profile.
Posted by: Paul Robbins
