GUIDO SALVAGNINI designed, built
and introduced the first panel bender to the marketplace in 1977. At the time, large parts production was hampered by tooling and machines that required labor-intensive manual setup.and introduced the first panel bender to the marketplace in 1977. At the time, large parts production was hampered by tooling and machines that required labor-intensive manual setup.
Fabricators were clamoring for a flexible, automated solution. Salvagnini talked with manufacturers and used their feedback to engineer the P4 panel bender. The alternative to hard tooling, roll forming and manual press brakes was quickly adopted.
Today, job shops are grappling with different problems like the skills gap, ongoing implementation of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 initiatives and new operation parameters created by COVID-19, but Salvagnini’s P2 and P4 panel bender series are more relevant than ever.
The technology is especially suited to low to medium batch sizes, single-piece flow or kit production. Other hallmarks include the ability to meet stringent quality standards while handling a diverse product mix that ranges from steel furniture, elevators and commercial kitchens for fast food to HVAC equipment.
While end uses for the P2 and P4 are nearly limitless, sheet metal manufacturers in these market spaces share a common enemy: loss of efficiency and performance due to overproduction of work-in-progress (WIP). Lengthy setup time on traditional equipment creates WIP and leaves factories overloaded with finished and unfinished parts.
Some manufacturers find that poor quality, lack of skilled personnel and reliability are close companions of large stockpiles.