What is Near Net Shape Manufacturing?
Near Net Shape (NNS) refers to the manufacturing technique by which the initial production of an item results in an end product very close to the shape of the final product. The aim of near net shapes is to eliminate or drastically reduce the number of steps required in the manufacture of a part. Near Net Shape Manufacturing can also be seen as a component of Lean Manufacturing, where the design and material choices are driven by the desire to decrease waste.
What are the benefits of Near Net Shape Manufacturing?
- Reduction and even elimination of machine time
- Increased productivity
- Less upfront material costs due to decreased weight of raw material
- Generation of less scrap
- Decreased tooling use, which results in longer tool life
- Increased profits
- Maintaining competitive advantage in the wake of never-ending production improvement techniques, such as 3D printing
Click to view examples of Near Net Shapes.
How does Howard Precision Metals service Near Net Shape Manufacturing and Lean Manufacturing driven customers?
Here at Howard Precision Metals, we understand the need to stay competitive in the ever changing world of manufacturing. We pride ourselves in offering creative, cost-saving strategies to our customers, such as Near Net Shapes. Our aluminum plate and extrusion saws can hold tolerances as tight as ±.005”, which helps eliminate material weight and decrease required machine time. We also offer custom extruded aluminum shapes, which is likely our greatest value to Near Net Shape Manufacturing customers. With our mill partnerships, we have the ability to offer custom aluminum extrusions that range from simple variations of stock shapes (as shown in the below graphic) to intricate hollow shapes with complex geometry and very tight tolerances. As a bonus, we are able to saw cut these custom aluminum extrusions on our precision saws.
If you are interested in discussing custom extrusions, aluminum sawing capabilities, or Near Net Shape Manufacturing solutions, request a quote or contact Howard Precision Metals today at 800-444-0311.
