ITP Aero has installed a high pressure sheet hydroform press from Quintus Technologies in its now completed plant in Bilbao, Spain.

The Quintus press selection was the result of an ITP Aero R&D project evaluating different forming technologies. "We need to develop our new portfolio of products using sheet metal forming," says Paula Alfageme Alejos, Head of Fabrication, ITP Aero. "The market is increasingly competitive, and we are positioning ourselves by investing in the best technologies from well-known collaborators. Our partnership with Quintus is a good fit."

The Quintus press model QFC 0.7x1.8-1400 operates at a high forming pressure of 1400 bar (20,000 psi), especially important in jet engine applications because it ensures close-tolerance parts direct from the press, with little or no secondary hand work required. With a sizeable work area of 27.6 x 73 inches (700 mm x 1800 mm), the press introduces several production efficiencies, eliminating forming steps, intermediate heat treatments, and manual pre- and post-forming operations.

The advanced hydroform process utilizes a unique combination of a single rigid tool half, operating in conjunction with a flexible rubber diaphragm under uniform high hydrostatic pressure, to form sheet metal parts with great accuracy and repeatability. This design approach generates significant tool cost savings and speeds up tool production, especially for intricately shaped components.

To support its press investment, ITP Aero enrolled in a long-term Quintus Care Program, a rigorous agreement that ensures flawless production, operation, and equipment maintenance. The program also secures access to the Quintus sheet metal forming training academy, enabling ITP Aero to take a giant step in fabrication and derive the full benefits of innovative forming tool design and the high pressure process.

The equipment support program provides high availability of spare and wear parts and guaranteed and prioritized technical support. It also includes annual training and press inspections, aiming at regular recertification of ITP Aero personnel to maintain and elevate their skills, allowing the components manufacturer to concentrate on its core business.

"We worked closely with the ITP Aero team to confirm that our Flexform technology is more flexible and cost-efficient than other sheet metal forming processes," Jan Soderstrom, CEO of Quintus Technologies, comments. "We have designed, built, and installed more than 200 fluid cell presses for major manufacturers worldwide, and we are pleased to share our expertise with this leading company."

"It has been a strong collaboration, both in the commercial phase and in training and commissioning," says Alfageme Alejos. "Our company builds long- term, trust-based relationships with our strategic customers and suppliers, and Quintus is a strong partner."