N2C

Since its creation in 2004, N2C has been giving laser cutting machines, press brakes, machining centres and other former-generation numerically-controlled lathes a new lease of life. In 2006, N2C embarked on a new chal-lenge with a project, named Défi, supported by Ademe (and funded via the Investment of the Future programme). The objective of this project was to revamp a hydraulic press brake and adapt it to the “functional economy” model. To take up this challenge, N2C asked Cetim to provide assistance with the design of the business model, the determination of the suitable technical options and the choice of some systems. The machine was completely modernised, although most of its structure was retained. Some of the electric and hydraulic control and driving systems were replaced to improve the machine’s performance and reduce its energy consumption while, at the same time, the programs were modified to reduce the consumption and optimise the operation of the bending machine.

Implemented monitoring 

Further to this revamp process, the machine’s energy consump-tion was reduced by at least 60%, while the oil consumption was reduced by half and the time between oil changes was multiplied by two. In order to adapt the press to usage-based billing and to the implemen-tation of associated services, N2C also implemented the permanent monitoring of the machine’s main parameters via the numerical control system and additional sensors. The objective was to provide users with the necessary infor-mation to identify any failures, detect drifts and anticipate breakdowns in order to guaran-tee the highest availability rate for the machine. At the same time, N2C improved its respon-siveness and efficiency and allowed its teams to intervene quickly when necessary and to plan maintenance operations. Further to this first experience, N2C now intends to transpose this methodology to another type of machine tool.