Boeing [BA] this week sent two of its manufacturing development experts to AlmexA, a machining firm based in Odense, Denmark, to provide training on high- speed machining techniques for aluminum and titanium components used in the aerospace industry and other markets.
The technology-transfer project supports Boeing’s industrial-cooperation program tied to Denmark’s New Combat Aircraft competition in which the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet strike fighter is a finalist.
“As a small business in a global market, it is incredibly valuable for us to be able to work with a world-class company such as Boeing,” Bjarne Caspersen, AlmexA managing director, said. “The training and know-how provided this week will help our team better take advantage of growth opportunities in new fields and markets.”
The use of advanced metal structures is a key element in airplane design as the global aerospace industry looks to improve aircraft cost, performance and efficiency. The need for optimal structural solutions is rapidly extending beyond the aerospace market to medical and civil applications as well.
The four-day workshop, which concludes Oct. 15, provides classroom training on high-speed machining theory as well as practical demonstrations of tools used to optimize the machining operation for improved production efficiency, reduced cost and increased quality.
AlmexA expects to be able to improve efficiency in machine time by 10 percent and reduce machine run time by 30 percent once the new production techniques have been fully implemented.
“AlmexA and its metalworkers already are recognized for their capabilities by the machining industry,” Tom Bell, vice president of Business Development for Boeing Military Aircraft, said. “This advanced training will help them reach a strong position for future growth within and beyond the aerospace industry. The workshop is part of a Boeing program already under way to deliver benefits to Danish industry and demonstrates Boeing’s commitment to working with Danish companies of all sizes.”
AlmexA is an experienced aluminum machining contract manufacturer. The company uses state-of-the-art production equipment– including 5-axis and vertical computer numerical controlled (CNC) milling machinery–to manufacture complex parts for the aerospace industry.