In the realm of equipment design and fabrication, the integration of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) has marked a transformative shift. CAD tools have revolutionized how engineers and designers approach the creation of complex equipment, enabling unprecedented levels of precision, efficiency, and creativity. M.J. Nester uses CAD to reshape the landscape of equipment design and fabrication, the team uses this software to continuously create better solutions for our customers and their industry.
The Evolution of Equipment Design
Historically, equipment design was a labor-intensive process involving manual drafting, physical prototypes, and a great deal of trial and error. The transition from traditional methods to CAD has not only streamlined these processes but has also expanded the possibilities for innovation and customization.
Precision and Accuracy
One of the standout features of CAD is its ability to achieve a high degree of precision. Traditional manual drafting is prone to human error and limitations of scale. In contrast, CAD software allows Project Managers and Estimators to create highly detailed models with exact dimensions. This precision is crucial in equipment design, where even minor inaccuracies can lead to significant performance issues or manufacturing challenges.
Enhanced Visualization
CAD software provides advanced visualization tools that enable designers to view equipment in 3D before any physical prototype is made. This capability allows for comprehensive analysis of design elements, spatial relationships, or potential issues. M.J. Nester teams can use CAD for equipment design and fabrication to test multiple designs before creating the final product.
Collaboration and Communication
In modern equipment design, collaboration among team members is essential. CAD software supports this by allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously, regardless of their physical location. Shared digital models and real-time updates enhance communication and ensure that the M.J. Nester team can share ideas with the customer and ensure alignment throughout the design and fabrication process.
Customization and Flexibility
The versatility of CAD software allows for easy customization of designs to meet specific requirements. CAD tools provide the flexibility needed to accommodate a wide range of needs. This adaptability is particularly valuable in industries where equipment must be tailored to unique operational environments or client specifications.
M.J. Nester using CAD for Equipment Design and Fabrication
The M.J. Nester team is equipped to handle any type of equipment design and fabrication as requested. M.J. Nester’s estimators and project managers are skilled in the use of Computer-Aided Design Programs which allow our teams to design the most efficient product for your purposes. Our priority is always to get the customer back up and running as quickly as possible and to avoid these issues from occurring again in the future.
A recycling company approached M.J. Nester with the issue that this support bearing was failing. The material that was being recycled through this machine was eroding away at the metal over time, which lead to the breakage of the bearing itself. Since the design was a complete circle, the entire machine had to come apart to replace this single piece.
The M.J. Nester team used a CAD program to find a design that would not only replace the bearing as the customer had requested; but to create a new type of bearing that would prolong its life, while making it easier to replace the bearing in case it were to ever break again. After trying various designs, the team created the drawing you see below.
After the design was approved, the team was able to begin making the bearing which would be delivered to the customer. M.J. Nester employed the help of a smaller independent contractor, who helped with the fabrication of the individual pieces, including the metal and plastic cylinder. Once those pieces were created, M.J. Nester teams were then able to fit and weld the parts together to make the complete bearing.
With downtime and loss of production being a major factor, our customer requested a better solution. Never turning down a challenge, and with the help of the latest Computer Aided Design Programs, M.J. Nester was able to redesign, and custom fabricate a new bearing that will allow the customer to replace future worn bearings without the need to dismantle the entire auger.This new redesign will allow the customer to replace the bearing within minutes vs being down production for a day.