MSM Invests in Advanced All-Electric Press Brake Technology

MSM aerospace fabricators continues to invest in advanced manufacturing technology with the recent installation and commissioning of a new CoastOne all-electric press brake at its manufacturing facility.

The new machine forms an essential part of MSM’s high-rate forming and mechanical assembly cell, further strengthening the company’s ability to manufacture high-quality, complex components for the demanding aerospace sector, while supporting greater efficiency and more sustainable manufacturing practices.

One of the key advantages of the CoastOne all-electric press brake is its ability to deliver excellent levels of precision, control and repeatability.

Unlike conventional hydraulic press brakes, the all-electric system provides highly controlled movement during the bending and forming process. This allows MSM to achieve consistent bend angles and component geometries across production batches – particularly important when manufacturing aerospace components where tight tolerances and repeatable quality are essential.

Improved repeatability also supports MSM’s high-rate manufacturing capabilities, helping to reduce variation between components and minimise the requirement for rework. In addition to improving productivity, reducing rejected components and rework can help minimise material waste and the energy associated with manufacturing replacement parts.

The CoastOne has been integrated into MSM’s high-rate forming and mechanical assembly cell, providing an efficient route from precision forming through to subsequent assembly operations.

For customers, this combination of advanced equipment and experienced engineering expertise can provide a number of benefits, including shorter production cycles, consistent component quality, increased manufacturing efficiency and a more resource-efficient approach to production.

The technology complements MSM’s extensive capabilities in the forming and fabrication of complex aerospace components and assemblies. These include specialist sheet metal forming, complex fabrication, welding, mechanical assembly and other advanced manufacturing processes required by leading aerospace customers.

The Benefits of All-Electric Technology

Moving from traditional hydraulic technology to an all-electric press brake provides wider operational and environmental benefits.

Electric machines can offer improved energy efficiency because power is primarily consumed when the machine is actively operating rather than continuously maintaining hydraulic pressure. For high-rate manufacturing environments, improving energy efficiency across individual production processes can contribute towards reducing the overall environmental impact of manufacturing operations.

The absence of a conventional hydraulic system can also reduce maintenance requirements and eliminate the need for hydraulic oil associated with the forming process. This reduces the use of consumable fluids and removes the environmental considerations associated with storing, handling and disposing of hydraulic oil.

Precision and repeatability also have an important role to play in sustainable manufacturing. By producing components accurately and consistently, MSM can help reduce scrap, rework and unnecessary material consumption. This is particularly valuable within aerospace manufacturing, where high-value materials and complex production processes mean that avoiding waste can deliver both environmental and commercial benefits.

Another noticeable advantage on the shop floor is reduced operating noise. The CoastOne is exceptionally quiet compared with conventional hydraulic equipment, contributing towards an improved working environment for MSM’s manufacturing team.

Supporting More Sustainable Aerospace Manufacturing

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration throughout the aerospace supply chain. Manufacturers are being challenged not only to support the development of more efficient aircraft, but also to consider the environmental impact of the processes used to manufacture aerospace components.

Investment in modern, energy-efficient manufacturing equipment is one way MSM can contribute to this wider industry objective. Technologies such as the CoastOne can help reduce energy consumption, minimise waste, remove the requirement for hydraulic oil and improve production efficiency, while continuing to deliver the quality and repeatability demanded by aerospace customers.

MSM aerospace fabricators has extensive experience in producing complex fabricated components and assemblies for the aerospace industry. Continued investment in advanced manufacturing equipment such as the CoastOne enables the business to combine this engineering expertise with the latest production technology.

The CoastOne represents another important addition to MSM’s manufacturing capabilities and reinforces the company’s commitment to investing in the technology, people and processes required to meet the evolving demands of the global aerospace industry.

By combining precision, productivity and improved energy efficiency, investments such as this also demonstrate how advanced manufacturing technology can support MSM’s continued progress towards more efficient and sustainable aerospace manufacturing.