Custom-configured components save time and cost

Misumi has created a highly efficient way of ordering configurable components form a catalogue. Within its Factory Automation catalogue customers can find a range of standard shapes, with maximum and minimum limitations, suitable for use within industry-standard machines. Dimensions can be defined in 0.01mm increments. Misumi is therefore able to offer customised components in the same manner as engineers typically order standard components from a supplier, which saves valuable time and money.

Producing precision mechanical components is very expensive, and specialist machines typically require unique components, all in low volumes. But by using the Misumi method, costs can be dramatically reduced. Indeed, the company claims that over 50 per cent of total costs and 30 per cent of design time can be saved.

Simple example

Take a locating pin, for example. A customer will typically need a variety of specific machined parameters, including diamond and round head, customised shank length, diameter and a number of unique dimensions to suit an application. Parts may be identified via a supplier of standard components, but these will need additional machining, all with hidden and additional costs.

Customers across the world are realising the dramatic cost savings that can be implemented when adopting the Misumi system. Mike Baljak, a CAD support specialist at ATS (Automation Tooling Systems - www.atsautomation.com), comments: "It is as simple as logging onto their CAD website - where you have direct access to a number of parts - inputting the parameters and downloading the 3D models. It makes designing more efficient, which saves time and money, and allows time to be focused on more important aspects of the design, thereby increasing quality."

More information and catalogues can be found on the Misumi website at www.misumi-europe.com. Or configure your components at www.misumicad.com to save valuable design time.