Installing Quintus Hydroform Deep Draw Press

With contracts in place from Pratt & Whitney and the Snecma/GE joint venture CFM International, the Whitcraft Group will install a Quintus hydroform deep draw press early in the second quarter. The press supports component production for next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft engines—Pratt’s geared turbofan and CFM’s LEAP. 

Operating at a pressure of 11,600 psi (800 bar), the Quintus Flexform press forms complex sheet metal shapes. Many of the stainless steel parts used in engine ducting, for example, incorporate multiple levels of curves and indentations or ridges. 

Whitcraft also produces components made from super-hard nickel alloys for high-temperature applications.

The two-tray system allows four forming methods in one press. Because loading, unloading, tool change are moved out of the press, Quintus QFM presses offer 50–80% higher productivity than comparable hydroform systems.

Reduced tooling, requiring only one rigid tool half over the press’s 30.5-in.-dia. (775-mm) forming area, will accelerate prototype development for Whitcraft. 

In the early 1960s the Swedish firm ASEA/ABB Group patented Qunintus wire-winding technology. Presses are pre-stressed and wound completely with high tensile cold-rolled spring steel ribbon. The weight is 50% less than conventional presses.