News

BTM Purchases 2 New 500's

Bowman Purchases and Installs 2 New Mazak HCN-5000

Bowman Tool Inc. (BTM) located in Rochester, Mn has invested in the industry’s finest equipment including robotic automation and climate-controlled facilities to ensure that we can handle the most complex jobs required by our customers. BTM recently purchased a 2 new Mazak HCN-5000 which will be fully installed in the next few weeks. We have 8 500mm machining centers and 46 overall machining centers. We also have 11 lathes and 2 shapers. We added the shapers to better serve and broaden capabilities for BTM customers. Shaping capability improves lead time and cost for customers that need both machining and shaping. More and more customers are choosing BTM for our machining and shaping needs due to our quality and delivery performance.

The Mazak HCN-5000 with the new Smooth G Control has unsurpassed performance, precision, reliability, and production value for high-volume. This world-class Mazak HCN-5000 horizontal machining center combines advanced technology and outstanding value with high performance and high productivity for achieving maximum performance when working with virtually any type of material.

The machines are equipped with an 80-tool chain magazine with a Mazak Super Flow high pressure coolant unit. Pallet size 20.00” x 20.00” with a Y travel of 28.74”, X travel of 28.74”, and Z travel of 31.50”.  Also has a 12,000 RPM Spindle that provides fast, efficient, and versatile machining of a wide variety of materials from steels to nonferrous metals. 

new-50005612b5fc8

 

Bill Bowman to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

Bill Bowman to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

Congratulations to Bill Bowman, founder and president of Bowman Tool, Inc., for receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc (RaedI). The company was founded in 1977 by Bill and Mary Bowman and has been in continuous operations ever since.

 

Bill_and_Mary

BTM Purchases Two New Vertical Turning Centers

Bowman Tools Purchases Two New Vertical Turning Centers

Bowman Tool Inc. (BTM) located in Rochester, Mn has invested in the industry’s finest equipment including robotic automation and climate-controlled facilities to ensure that we can handle the most complex jobs required by our customers. BTM recently purchased two new DNS V8300 Vertical Turning Centers which are in the process of being installed. We have 28 600mm machining centers and 45 overall machining centers. We also have 11 lathes and 2 shapers. We recently added the shapers to better serve and broaden capabilities for BTM customers. This new shaping capability improves lead time and cost for customers that need both machining and shaping. More and more customers are choosing BTM for our machining and shaping needs due to our quality and delivery performance.

The DNS V8300 Vertical Turning Centers have larger turning diameter capabilities, higher rapid traverse rates and the latest Fanuc Controls of the + Series. Bowman Tool Inc. is committed to meet or exceed our customers’ expectations for quality and delivery performance. One way we do this is by purchasing the latest technology machines.

 

 

ellison_doosand96468ed35

BTM Purchases and Installs New Mazak 6800

Bowman Purchases and Installs New Mazak 6800

Bowman Tool Inc. (BTM) located in Rochester, Mn has invested in the industry’s finest equipment including robotic automation and climate-controlled facilities to ensure that we can handle the most complex jobs required by our customers. BTM recently purchased a new Mazak 6800 which was installed and became operational February of 2023. We have 27 600mm machining centers and 44 overall machining centers. We also have 9 lathes and 2 shapers. We recently added the shapers to better serve and broaden capabilities for BTM customers. This new shaping capability improves lead time and cost for customers that need both machining and shaping. More and more customers are choosing BTM for our machining and shaping needs due to our quality and delivery performance.

The Mazak HCN-6800 with the new Smooth G Control has unsurpassed performance, precision, reliability, and production value for high-volume large heavy part operations. This world-class Mazak HCN-6800 horizontal machining center combines advanced technology and outstanding value with high performance and high productivity for achieving maximum performance when working with virtually any type of material.

 The machine features a spacious work envelope (41.34 Diameter x 51.18” Height) and pallet size (24.80” x 24.80”) as well as a fast rapid traverse rates and rigid, reliable spindles.  With the 10,000 RPM 50 Horsepower Spindle the machine provides fast, efficient, and versatile machining of a wide variety of materials from steels to nonferrous metals.  Bowman Tool equipped the Mazak HCN-6800 with a 120 Station Automatic Tool Changer to allow the machine to have additional tool storage as well as work on highly complex work pieces.

Mazak_6800a7807ea961

New Capability - Shapers

NEW CAPABILITY

Recently, Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc. (BTM) made the decision to expand our business into gear-making.  BTM has done this by acquiring three used Fellows gear shapers, a 20-4, 20-5 and FS400-125 Hydrostroke.  This acquisition brings BTM closer to our goal of being a one-stop, full-service supplier to our customers.

Fellows 20-4 specs

Maximum Gear Pitch Diameter:                  20”                         

Maximum Face Width:                                4”

Maximum OD of Fixture:                             27”

Maximum Diametrical Pitch:                       4

Fanuc CNC Control

Fellows 20-5 specs

Maximum Gear Pitch Diameter:                 20”

Maximum Face Width:                                5”

Maximum OD of Fixture:                            27”

Maximum Diametrical Pitch:                       6

Fanuc CNC Control

Fellows FS400-125 Hydrostroke specs

Maximum Gear Pitch Diameter:                 15.7”

Maximum Face Width:                                 5”

Maximum OD of Fixture:                             20.7”

Maximum Diametrical Pitch:                        3.5

Fanuc CNC Control

 

What This Means

What these specifications mean to BTM’s customers is that we can shape gears up to 20” in diameter and up to 5” length, on a part that measures up to 27” in diameter.  For answers to any questions, or to submit an RFQ to have BTM review your requirements, send an email to sales@btmcnc.com or call  +1(507)286-1400.

  

 

  

 

BOWMAN PURCHASES NEW MAZAK 6800

Bowman Purchases New Mazak 6800

Bowman Tool Inc. (BTM) located in Rochester, Mn has invested in the industry’s finest equipment including robotic automation and climate-controlled facilities to ensure that we can handle the most complex jobs required by our customers. BTM recently purchased two new Mazak 6800's which will be installed and operational April 2021.This will take our 600mm machining centers from 25 to 27 and our overall machining centers from 42 to 44. We also have 9 lathes and 3 shapers. We recently added the shapers to better serve and broaden capabilities for BTM customers. This new shaping capability improves lead time and cost for customers that need both machining and shaping. More and more customers are choosing BTM for their machining and shaping needs due to our quality and delivery performance. We have not missed a delivery in over 40 months. Our PPM with our largest customer is just over 100. The parts we machine are low to medium volumes with many features. A 100 PPM on these types of part is a tremendous achievement.

The Mazak HCN-6800 with the new Smooth G Control has unsurpassed performance, precision, reliability, and production value for high-volume large heavy part operations. This world-class Mazak HCN-6800 horizontal machining center combines advanced technology and outstanding value with high performance and high productivity for achieving maximum performance when working with virtually any type of material.

 The machine features a spacious work envelope (41.34 Diameter x 51.18” Height) and pallet size (24.80” x 24.80”) as well as a fast rapid traverse rates and rigid, reliable spindles.  With the 10,000 RPM 50 Horsepower Spindle the machine provides fast, efficient, and versatile machining of a wide variety of materials from steels to nonferrous metals.  Bowman Tool equipped the Mazak HCN-6800 with a 120 Station Automatic Tool Changer to allow the machine to have additional tool storage as well as work on highly complex work pieces.

Mazak 6800

 

The 3 C's That Make or Break Precision Machining Companies

Bowman Tool and Machining Inc. Shares the “3 C’s” That Make or Break Precision Machining Companies

If you’re in need of precision machining, you have a difficult decision to make. Among all the precision machining companies available and surrounding areas, you must choose the one you can trust.

When you need a part for your machine, you want the process handled from start to finish by a company who doesn’t just see you as a customer, but a partner.

At Bowman Tool and Machining, we’ve spent the past 40 years forming bonds through teamwork with everyone we’ve served.

Today we’re going to cover some questions and concerns you might have to ensure Bowman Tool is the right choice to be your partner in precision machining.

Capabilities

Not all machining companies are built alike (pun intended).

You may be wondering if we just focus on small parts or are only capable of handling larger ones. Our answer? We have the capabilities to handle both and everything in between.

With 54 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines – ranging from 400mm to 1000m – we can handle parts ranging from 1 lb. to 6600 lbs.

This means you can come to us with jobs of essentially any size. Plus, our state of the art, 150,000 square ft. facility, gives us the bandwidth to handle a range of order amounts from a single prototype to a fleet of parts.

Our capabilities don’t stop with our machines. We’ve created a reliable and responsive staff to meet your needs, even on short notice. Working with Bowman Tool and Machining gives you the personal touch of a small machine shop with the readiness to tackle big projects because we have the personnel to handle them.

Communication

 When you work with a precision machining company, you don’t want surprises. You want to work with a team that keeps you informed every step of the way.

With Bowman Tool, you’ll work with a staff who not only communicates with you effectively, but communicates within its own company with an eye toward excellence.

For example, in the prototype to production process, we’ll work with you to meet all specifications requested, even if they appear complex and challenging on the surface.

After creating the initial prototype, we’ll use our Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) to make sure the part functions precisely as it should. That data circulates back to the beginning of the process, with us communicating each step to you along the way, to make sure the part is crafted to as close to perfect as possible.

 We also communicate as a team to make sure our processes are running smoothly. In our daily white board meetings, we review strategies to reduce lead times, increase efficiencies, and discuss cutting edge trends and techniques in the machining industry, all of which gets communicated back to our quality control team and machinists on the floor.

 Why do we do this?

 We focus on excellence so much because we literally imagine the farmer on his combine or planter, the person driving their car, or the person laying underneath an MRI machine.

 In a way, modern society isn’t possible without the parts precision machining creates.

 We provide parts in industries where precision matters, so why wouldn’t we go the extra mile to help our partners?

 Consistency

 How does a precision machining business stay around for 40 years? That’s a good question.

 In the machining industry, stories have circulated about companies that fail. They take on jobs they’re incapable of performing, communication lapses, debt is owed, and all the sudden keeping doors open becomes difficult.

 At Bowman tool, we’ve learned to grow at a pace allowing us to increase our capability and knowledge while protecting our partners in the process and staying debt free.

 This dedication to consistency allows us to guarantee 100 percent on time delivery. It’s what makes us keep you informed from the very beginning stages of pre-production, through the machining process, and even providing support after the parts have been shipped out the door.

 We built our business on the philosophy that consistently creating quality products creates success. If you work with us, you won’t just be a customer, but a part of a continuing legacy of strong relationships and top-tier precision parts.

 Here’s what you do next. Pick up the phone, dial (507) 286-1400 and speak with one of our representatives at our  facility. Let’s talk about your precision machining needs and see how we can work together.

 

  

 

BTM Achieves 56 PPM for last 12 months

BTM Achieves 56 PPM for last 12 months


Bowman Tool- a company located in Rochester Minnesota machines complex raw castings serving Construction, Forestry and Agriculture market sectors announces 12 months of quality and delivery results. BTM’s PPM is a very low 56 with 100% on time delivery. We asked BTM’s Engineering and Quality manager how BTM achieves such incredible results. His response is below. 

Bowman Tool & Machining Inc invests in a high-performance quality culture by developing/maintaining an outstanding knowledge-based team focused on developing proactive approaches to solve problems before they occur. BTM is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company and continues to increase our QMS effectiveness by identifying and addressing risks and opportunities.  Some highlights of our recipe for success are as follows:

  •  
    • Invest and retain talented individuals- for a great team that reflects exceptional performance as measured by BTM and our customers daily. We take pride in our employees and work together to identify and remove obstacles to success as well as create an incentivized work environment.  
    • Understand customer requirements- develop lasting relationships, become engaged in the customers value-add supply chain, and work together to create the best cost-effective product plan. BTM most often exceeds our customer expectations in all aspects of the delivery process including; design, prototype, materials procurement, production, shipping and end of life service. 
    • Communication and Transparency- ensure all stakeholders have timely information with which to make informed decisions to maintain focus on proactive action plans.  
    • Processed based methodology (Plan-Do-Check-Act)- for exceptional manufacturing performance we have developed a succinct set of performance metrics which we continually monitor. Based on the metrics we take appropriate action with an emphasis on being proactive. 
    • Production/manufacturing support- all manufacturing products and processes have detailed support documents. All stakeholders at BTM are trained/confirmed they understand how to utilize these resources. The teams creating these product and process documents have many combined years of experience. This ultimately gives our customers great service and value and more importantly, no surprises.
    • Continuous improvement- continual effort to review and monitor business processes for deficiencies and exposures as we look to enhance performance through metrics-based measurement. Continuous improvement is an important part of our quality policy.
    • Preventative maintenance- equipment up-time is essential for successful capacity planning and delivering customer product on-time. BTM utilizes a dedicated metrics based preventative maintenance scheduling program using OEM recommendations for all equipment at BTM. 

As a result, recent 12-month rolling PPM is 56 with 100% on time delivery performance as measured by one of our larger customers. A PPM of 56 is incredible for a company that machines complex raw castings. These results encompass daily production requirements, new product introduction projects, and legacy products. We can attribute some of the success for these results to following a correctly structured PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) and following up with rigid/validated execution. Honestly, it truly is people with passion playing/working as a team at all levels in the organization for a common goal that is the #1 ingredient for our continued success and, we have them at Bowman Tool & Machining Inc.  located in Rochester Minnesota.

  

 

Unparalleled Precision Machining

How Bowman Tool & Machining Achieves Unparalleled Precision Machining

From starting out in a 900-square foot garage to growing into a 150,000-square foot machining facility, one thing has remained consistent through our 40 years of business— our dedication to continuous improvement. Our mission and team values demand we are continuously improve our process and methods for precision machining. But how is BTM able to guarantee quality, precise parts? 

It Begins With the Customer

 From the very beginning, we work closely with our customers to understand their specific needs, design specifications, or if requested, offer our expertise to aid final design considerations. We offer prototyping development services to help customers design and produce unique parts that will meet their specific requirements. We are fully capable of designing and building tooling to support our customer’s requirements for a complete package of services. Once we’ve established a plan and design with the customer, the real work begins.

 Optimal Precision With CNC Machining 

Computer Numerical Control or CNC machining allows for ultimate precision when producing parts. CNC machines utilize the latest technology to control different tools including lathes, mills, and robotics. An operator is able to input specifications for a part and the CNC machine can produce the part to those exact specifications. To verify that parts meet the customer’s specifications, our machine operators perform regular quality checks before entering the Quality Control lab for complete customer requirement validation. We have a variety of CNC machines allowing us to provide capability to our customers for machined parts ranging from 1lb to 6600 lbs.

 Quality Control Machines Ensure Consistency 

We don’t just utilize the latest technology in our production, but also in our quality control procedures. BTM utilized Coordinate Measuring Machines or CMMs to ensure each part meets the customer’s exact measurements. CMMs can be automated or manually controlled and, use a probe to measure every feature on a part, checking for inconsistencies. We will process this data collection to understand our capabilities and validate performance. Bowman Tool and Machining also has CMM’s equipped with the latest scanning technology as we seek to consistently increase our throughput and provide exceptional value-add to our customers products. Once the parts have been through our rigorous quality control procedures, we ship them out in a timely manner to ensure our customers receive exactly what they ordered, when they ordered it.

 It Doesn’t End With Shipping 

Even after a job is complete, we provide aftermarket support to ensure our customers always have a resource in Bowman Tool & Machining. When a customer calls BTM they will always reach a member of the management team, who will take the time to understand their needs & involve key team members to satisfy the customer’s request.

 If you’re looking for a precision parts manufacturer you can count on, rely on the business that has proven its mettle for 40 years. Contact our facility at (507) 286-1400 today.

  

 

BTM Quality & Delivery Performance 2nd Qtr 2020

  

 

Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc.

Quality and Delivery Performance 

2q 2020

Quality__Delie4ba628fabe

 

Bowman Tool & Machining had another quarter of strong performance for 2Q 2020. For our largest customer, In the areas of quality and delivery results exceeded our aggressive targets. But that is what our customers have come to expect. Our delivery target is 98%. We were perfect (100% on time) for each of the three months in 2Q20. As a matter of fact, for the last three years each month we were at 100%! Our quality target is less than 125 PPM. This is an extremely aggressive target as many of our parts have several hundred features. For the second quarter we had 0 defects! For 2019 our PPM was 92. Our delivery performance and quality earned us a partner rating for our largest customer. We were one of only 87 companies that achieved this status out of a supplier pool of 30,000. 

These results are reflective of a very strong and seasoned team. Our machinists average 8 years of experience and some have close to 25 years of experience! Our machines are maintained by our onsite maintenance team. We strive to be proactive and focus on preventative maintenance of our machines. We have a seasoned senior management team which averages greater than 25 years of service.

Our debt is low. We are poised to make investments in the right areas to serve our customers even better. We just added shaping capability to serve our customers more fully. Our vision statement is “To have profitable growth through high customer satisfaction”. We live and act to our vision statement each day. Go to www.btmcnc.com to check us out further.

  

  

 

Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc Delivery Performance

Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc Delivery Performance

 

Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc. (BTM) a Rochester based CNC machining company not only ships with very high quality but also has a very reliable delivery history. In fact, Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc. has shipped on time every month for the last 2 years! This is no small feat considering the complexity of the parts BTM machines. Several parts BTM machines are very complex weigh more than 1000 pounds and have more than 900 features. What is the secret to our success? Over our over 42 years of continuously operation we have developed and enhanced our company in four main areas to get to this world class level of delivery performance.

We maintain our own equipment with a heavy focus on preventative maintenance. This assures our machines have very low downtime. As a backup in the low likelihood the machining centers are down, and we have critical deliveries we have backup machining centers that parts can be transferred in a few hours.  This protects our customers manufacturing lines and insures we ship on time.

Our machining centers are scheduled based on a long-term plan. Our Plant Manager, Joe Howe, schedules our line based on a 4-week rolling demand from our customers with daily releases. Joe has 22 years of experience at BTM. He started BTM running a machining center and has worked his way up to Plant Manager. Joe knows every process in our factory as he has created most of them! Joe also has an intimate knowledge of our customers and their needs. Over the many years of working at BTM and communicating with our customers Joe has learned to anticipate problems and schedule our complex machining centers proactively.

Communication is key to setting correct delivery expectations. We continuously communicate with our customers. It is not uncommon for us to have several conversations with our customers daily. This helps us tweak our machining operations to real time customer needs. BTM strives for clear and consistent communications with our customers and suppliers to prevent surprises and keep a smooth flow of machined castings to our customers.

BTM operates at a very high-quality low defect rate to keep daily surprises to a minimum and assure consistent high delivery performance. The ISO 9001:2015 registered team at Bowman Tool and Machining continues to apply advanced quality planning techniques along with robust continuous improvement methodologies allowing BTM to be recognized as a top tier supplier to our customers. In fact, during fiscal year 2018, one of our larger customers received over 135,000 highly complex machined castings 100% on time with an annual parts per million score of less than 120 PPM. Some of the product we produce requires our processes to control tolerance ranges of less than 15 microns and, may include up to 900 features per part. We are recognized as an industry leader at providing cost-effective and successful new product introductions, and really excel at working with our customers design and procurement personnel as a significant contributor/facilitator to ensure the end-users needs are satisfied entirely.

 

Our Quality Policy contains the words continuous process improvement. While we cannot ship better than 100% on time, we can build on our 24 months of continuous on time shipments and that is exactly what we intent to do!

  

 

BTM Quality Highlights

BTM Quality Highlights


The ISO 9001:2015 registered team at Bowman Tool and Machining continues to apply advanced quality planning techniques along with robust continuous improvement methodologies allowing BTM to be recognized as a top tier supplier to our customers. In fact, during fiscal year 2018, one of our larger customers received over 135,000 highly complex machined castings 100% on time with an annual parts per million score of less than 120 PPM. Some of the product we produce requires our processes to control tolerance ranges of less than 15 microns and, may include up to 900 features per part. We are recognized as an industry leader at providing cost-effective and successful new product introductions, and really excel at working with our customers design and procurement personnel as a significant contributor/facilitator to ensure the end-users needs are satisfied entirely.

BTM works with our customer’s experts to formulate and facilitate their desired plan(s) during the design, prototype, pre-production, and production launch stages.  We also have well established partnerships with tier two suppliers for tooling, fixturing, and raw materials to include foundries. While we have excellent design capabilities for tooling and fixturing, we have developed a sustained supply base to increase throughput for all opportunities and challenges for complex machined components. BTM will work with our customers to ensure that there are no surprises during any phase of meeting their expectations and we will do what it takes to mitigate unforeseen issues and be an extension of the customers team. 

At Bowman Tool and Machining Inc., internal customer planning occurs at all levels of the company daily to ensure customer expectations are thoroughly defined, communicated and understood by all stakeholders. Some examples of metrics that have been developed with positive results include safety, NPI programs, PPM, delivery, quoting and equipment effectiveness. These metrics are communicated monthly across the entire team and helps ensure BTM employees understand the wants and needs of our customers. The expected deliverables from our customers are simple, cost effective parts delivered on time and on quality at a fair price. BTM reinforces the need for our team to continuously improve in all phases of production from the design stage and moving through prototype, materials procurement, production and shipping stages completing with end of life service. This is part of our Quality Policy and will ensure we continue to satisfy customers needs far into the future.

  

 

Bowman Tool Celebrates Zero Defects for August

Zero Defects - Lets Celebrate!

Bowman Tool Celebrates Zero Defects for August


donut_platter6ac31abe58

Our quality performance goal is to have ZERO nonconforming parts delivered to our customers. To recognize the highly skilled team of Bowman Tool, we had donuts for completing our goal in August! This is the 3rd time this year the team has achieved this recognition!

In the areas of quality and delivery, we have exceeded our aggressive targets, and that is what our customers have come to expect. In the last few months, we were significantly below our target as well and in August we had ZERO defects! These results are reflective of a very strong and seasoned team. Our machinists average eight years of experience, some have close to 25 years of experience! 

On behalf of Bowman Tool, we want to thank you for all your hard work and dedication! 


106d17453115


Manufacturing Perfection with CNC Machining

Bowman Tool & Machining is Manufacturing Perfection with CNC Machining

 

CNC machining covers a wide variety of applications to fill your precision machining and contract manufacturing needs.

When you understand how CNC machining works, you can make smart decisions for finding the right machining company to help with your next project.

On top of the vast capabilities our machines provide, we add additional levels of quality management, internal review, and improvement processes to keep our projects on time and budget with as few errors possible.

When you understand how the process works and the benefits it can provide for your business, you can make smart decisions to get the parts you need for the equipment in your business.

 

Background

Humankind has consistently demonstrated our ability to do and invent amazing things using only our hands and simple tools, but the greatest invention by far has come in the last half century when we developed computers. Computers have the power to command and control other tools with a preciseness that was before unthinkable. This was particularly groundbreaking for the manufacturing industry. For the manufacturing world, the invention of computer technology and accompanying software changed the game for precision, speed, and strength. Today, computer numerical control (CNC) machining equipment is commonplace on many operations floors guided by advanced program software. At Bowman Tool & Machining (BTM), our team of skilled, expert engineers and machinists utilize CNC machining in our state-of-the-art facilities to provide the highest-quality precision manufacturing services possible to our clients.

Computer numerical control was first utilized in some capacity with the tape-punch servomechanisms of the 1940s and 1950s. While effective in its own right, this analog method of manufacturing cannot compare to today’s digital high-powered computer intelligence. With a 150,000 square foot manufacturing space, BTM houses over 50 CNC machining centers and additional automated equipment that serves as a prime example of what computer numerical control can do for the custom manufacturing industry.

For over 40 years, BTM has worked to continue embracing advances and innovations in CNC machining. Today we take projects of all shapes and sizes into our experienced hands and, with an engineering-driven approach, manufacture components and parts with unparalleled quality. Even with our highly skilled team and our efficient production procedures, BTM’s level of excellence would not be possible without our pillar of strength: CNC machining.

 

CNC Machining Basics

Let’s start with a simple CNC machine definition.

Per Thomas Net:

 “CNC Machining is a process used in the manufacturing sector that involves the use of computers to control machine tools. Tools that can be controlled in this manner include lathes, mills, routers and grinders. The CNC in CNC Machining stands for Computer Numerical Control.”

 Each machined part starts out as a block of raw material. Precision machining cuts the raw material to specifications that become the individual part.

CNC machining makes this process both accurate and more efficient. You program the machine once, and it repeats the process as many times as you need it to.

To understand what can be accomplished with our advanced CNC machining capabilities, it’s important to recognize a few basic facts about the process.

 

CNC Machine Programming

CNC machining relies on the preprogramming of tool movement into our manufacturing-specific software. This programming system is based on movement across three axes: x, y, and z (respectively: horizontal, vertical, and depth movement). Our engineers program a CNC operation based on the data specific to a digital part design using the geometry built with our computer-aided design (CAD) software and translated through computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software.

This programming ability works well for rapid prototyping and machining complex parts because both require an extremely accurate process to complete.

 

Program:

The patterns of movement a CNC machine follows are determined by the instruction code programmed in the common CNC language g-code. G-code communicates the full process for a machining operation, including speed, feed rate, and full range of motion.

 

System:

The CNC machining process is also directed in varying ways depending on whether it runs on a closed-loop or an open-loop system. When open, the CNC signal runs in one direction between the control and the motor. When closed, the control receives constant feedback from a cyclical loop. While a CNC machine can operate on either system, a closed-loop may be more effective in correcting errors in the machining process as it receives feedback information on speed, momentum, and position.

 

CNC Machining Tools:

At BTM, we utilize several types of machining tools for a comprehensive fabrication approach to manufacturing any given part.

Primary, we operate with CNC mills and lathes. Our CNC milling centers offer machining at several depths along the x-axis in addition to horizontal and vertical movement along the x and y axes. Our CNC lathes provide both x and y axis movement cutting on a changeable circular index. Both mill and lathe movements are programmed through G-code specifications.

 

CNC Milling Machines

When you cut a part using a CNC milling machines, the tool itself moves around the part and the part is stationary. The computer control will guide the machine to cut the part along a predetermined path.

These machines are more suitable for complex parts with intricate cut patterns. The versatility of these machines means they can cut virtually any part.

We use these machines as part of the contract manufacturing process to machine parts with predefined specifications and we can also use them in the prototype to production process for newly invented parts.

 

CNC Lathes

CNC lathes work in the exact opposite fashion. The part rotates around the tool. This process is commonly used for cylindrical parts.

You can create the same parts using a milling machine as you can with a lathe, but the process for creating cylindrical parts and other parts that favor this type of machine is much more streamlined using a lathe.

With 54 different CNC machines, any company working with us can be sure we can machine their part and have the capabilities to do it.

 

Benefits of CNC Machining

 Everything we do is for our clients. While there are many benefits of CNC machining for us as manufacturers, all of them translate into benefits for our clients.

 Precision: CNC machining can achieve accuracy within 1/1000th, virtually eliminating human error. This accuracy is also able to be replicated, allowing for consistent uniformity in parts and components, resulting in higher quality for our clients.

 Speed:  We understand the importance of getting your components on time. CNC machines can create uniform parts, quickly. Not only can they outpace their traditional counterparts, CNC machines can work around the clock, never needing a break, except for routine maintenance. This means the turnaround time for clients is less and there’s less disruption in the line of production.

 Low Cost:  While the initial investment in CNC machines is higher, in the long run it’s worth it. For high-quantity projects, CNC machining is more cost effective than traditional machining. CNC machining is efficient, precise, quick, and requires little labor. All of this adds up to serious savings for our clients.

 Versatility: If you can dream it, CNC machines can create it. CNC machines are highly versatile and can include a variety of accessories and features that expand their machining capabilities. They’re capable of creating complex components that would otherwise be impossible by manual machines and compatible with a variety of materials including aluminum, brass, copper, titanium, wood, and plastic. Between our prototyping design and development services and our CNC machining capabilities, we’re able to provide unique solutions for our clients.

The CNC machining process is almost completely automated from design to programming to operation. Because BTM’s skilled engineers utilize advanced prototyping software in the design process and seamlessly translate CAD files into CAM and CNC systems, our CNC machining operations are the single most efficient and accurate methods of custom manufacturing.

If you’re ready to work with a reliable, quality, customer-focused manufacturer who can address all of your design and production needs, contact Bowman Tool & Machining. To learn more about our full services and precision-based CNC machining, contact us at (507) 286-1400 or request a quote today.

    

BTM Awarded Partner by John Deere

Bowman Tool is Awarded Partner Status by John Deere

For John Deere’s fiscal year 2019 Bowman Tool (BTM) was awarded John Deere’s highest supplier honor. Bowman Tool achieved partner level performance. BTM has shipped on time to John Deere for 33 consecutive months. PPM for 2019 was an incredible 84. This is fantastic performance especially considering the complexity of the parts BTM machines for John Deere. BTM machines planet pinion carriers, axels, transmission housings, differential housings, spacers, oil pans, quills and loader frame arms. These parts are complex with many features. Some of these parts have more than 900 features!

BTM is a family owned company and has been a full-service supplier to John Deere since 1988 some 31 years! We proactively work with JD Procurement, Engineering, PEC and Quality stake holders on new product introductions as a development partner and design consultant. We are involved in every stage of a parts life cycle. It all starts with the design stage and moves through the prototype, materials procurement, production, and shipping stages, completing with end of life service. The result is a final product that meets John Deere’s exacting requirements.

AT BTM our employees have a passion for high customer satisfaction. It is one of the main reasons we have been in business since 1977 without interruption. Each employee focuses on how they can continuously improve processes. Monthly all employee discussions are centered around continuous process improvements. We also discuss metrics on safety, quality, service and productivity.

We are very proud to be awarded partner  level performance by John Deere. Stay tuned for pictures from our upcoming January meeting at John Deere where we will receive this prestigious award.

   IMG_3815

 

Agriculture and Farm Equipment Development With BTM Precision Machining in Rochester, MN

Agriculture and Farm Equipment Development With BTM Precision Machining in Rochester, MN  

Partnering with Bowman Tool and Machining means that you can expect reliable and quality precision-machined parts for industries that demand highly technical, complex components. We serve a wide range of industries with custom manufactured parts as small as .25 pounds to as large as 1,600 pounds. From tiny components that play a big role in MRI scanning to assembled parts that hold up in heavy machinery, BTM can provide quality custom precision machining in Rochester, MN.

 One of the largest industries BTM serves with precision-machined parts include vehicles and equipment for on and off highway, engine, recreational, and utility purposes. With the rapidly advancing technology involved in this industry, the high-quality, reliable parts BTM manufactures are key in ensuring the safe and effective use of the equipment. Farming in the US, for example, relies on the heavy agricultural equipment and farm vehicles for which BTM plays an important role in the manufacturing process.

 BTM capabilities in manufacturing custom parts and components for agriculture and farm equipment help sustain communities across the country with healthy, safe foods and protect farmers from the dangers of unreliable machinery. By fabricating and assembling high-integrity parts with quality materials, BTM is able to provide dependable, long-lasting components for a wide range of agriculture vehicles and farm equipment including, but not limited to: 

  • Tracked/two-wheel tractors and farm trucks
  • Tillers, ploughs, and irrigation machinery
  • Fertilizing and pesticide spray machinery
  • Automated produce sorting and processing equipment
  • Combines and other harvesters
  • Balers and movers
  • Backhoes and other loading equipment
  • Livestock movers and crop transportation

 From land cultivation to harvesting and processing, BTM provides precision-machined parts for the wide range of equipment needed. Our custom CNC machining operations offer our customers the capabilities of horizontal and vertical machining, horizontal and vertical lathes, specialty spindle tooling, and internally integrated automated cells for the most precise, reliable design and production possible. BTM’s expert engineers and hardworking staff are committed to providing long-term solutions for manufacturing agriculture equipment and a range of additional parts for industries across the U.S.

 For more information about BTM equipment, the industries we serve, and our custom manufacturing with precision machining in Rochester, MN, contact us at (507) 286-1400 or request a quote to start a partnership in excellence today.

 

 

Use of Planetary Pinion Carriers and Their Production Benefits with Precision Machining

Use of Planetary Pinion Carriers and Their Production Benefits with Precision Machining

  Hundreds of years ago, Greek and Roman mathematicians and engineers developed epicyclic gear trains with planetary pinion and gear trajectories. Since then, the highly effective planetary gear systems have remained largely the same, but the technology for manufacturing and assembling these systems has advanced into the state-of-the-art equipment and engineering capabilities we use today. At Bowman Tool & Machining, we utilize a range of tools, machinery, robots, software, and knowledge to design and build planetary pinion carriers. For heavy duty vehicles, agriculture equipment, and more, BTM meets all your needs with custom precision machining.

While the technology for planetary pinion carriers has existed for centuries, there are always opportunities to improve design and production quality. With BTM, you can expect us to always take those opportunities whenever possible. As a contract manufacturer of custom planetary pinion carriers, we strive to innovate and streamline the production process to provide our customers with reliable, precision machined parts on time and with the highest quality.

With BTM precision machining, planetary pinion carriers benefit from our equipment, expertise, software, project management, and 150,000 square foot facility.

Equipment and Software

Our wide range of precision machining equipment, including 40 horizontal and 3 vertical machining centers, 6 horizontal and 5 vertical lathes, 2 specialty lathes, 2 internally integrated automated cells, and comprehensive support equipment, are all controlled to exact degrees of measurement with our calibrated software systems. BTM’s CNC equipment and advanced software is reliable, effective, and high-quality for the precision machining of planetary pinion carriers. With the full use of our custom machining facilities at your service, you can rely on our team to get the job done.

Expertise and Experience

For over 40 years, BTM has provided custom machining services with our fully-equipped facilities nationwide. Today, our experience and practices follow our core principles including attention to detail and a passion to perform. Our expertise in CNC precision machining for planetary pinion carriers and more are supported by the knowledge and skill of our engineers, technicians, and machinists as well as the competence of our management and customer service teams.

Planetary pinion carriers are key components in a wide range of systems from tractors to construction machinery. Don’t waste time with low-quality parts that come fast and cheap. Instead, invest your time and budget in long-lasting parts made with precision and care. Contact Bowman Tool & Machining at (507) 286-1400 to learn more about our services and precision machining capabilities, or request a quote today.

 

Benefits of Choosing Custom Machining in Rochester, MN, for Agricultural Vehicle Parts

Benefits of Choosing Custom Machining in Rochester, MN, for Agricultural Vehicle Parts

At Bowman Tool & Machining, we provide custom machined parts to a range of industries, but a large portion of our work goes to producing parts for agricultural equipment and farm vehicles. One of our specialties is the design, production, and assembly of transmission cases, axles, and pinions for the agriculture equipment industry. Our 150,000 square feet of manufacturing space and wide range of CNC machining centers and additional state-of-the-art equipment provide the facilities we need to manufacture complex custom parts. With weights ranging from 1 to 1,600 pounds in every shape and size, BTM produces quality machine part for agricultural equipment and farm vehicles with advanced custom machining in Rochester, MN.

 Whatever your production project goals may be, BTM will work with you to manufacture even the most complex custom parts, big or small. When you choose to work with BTM, you choose to take advantage of the significant benefits our custom machining shop provides.

 Long-lasting: At BTM, we build our parts to last through the high-stress environments all farm implements are exposed to daily. The strain of hard work that tractors, plows, tillers, planters, harvesters, fertilizer and water spreaders, and all other farm machinery and vehicles experience can cause severe damage to internal custom parts. BTM custom machined parts, including heavy-duty specialized transmission cases, axles, and pinions, are made with quality materials resistant to corrosion or chemical damage and designed to fit perfectly to provide unsurpassed strength and function. 

 No compromise: When you choose to work with BTM for your custom manufacturing project, you get the best with no compromise. No matter what size or shape part you need, our engineering team and machine technicians will work to design, build, and assemble a part that fits your exact specifications. No longer will you need to compromise your product goals to fit existing designs. Additionally, with our facilities and CNC equipment including horizontal and vertical machining centers, lathes, internally integrated automated cells, CMMs, advanced CAD/CAM software, and quality prototyping equipment, you’ll never have to compromise quality for competitive prices.

High-functioning: At BTM, we have over 40 years of experience in designing and manufacturing custom parts for suppliers and companies across Minnesota and the surrounding areas. Because of this, our production of custom agriculture machine parts is reliable for seamless integration into customer systems, long-lasting durability, and high-functionality. The heavy-duty work that most farm vehicles and agriculture equipment accomplish each day demands high-functioning, powerful parts, including transmission cases, axles, and pinions that don’t lose their functional integrity.

To learn more about our capabilities for custom machining in Rochester, MN, and our production of agricultural and other machine parts, contact us at (507) 286-1400 today or request a quote online.

 

Engineering Support Software Improves CNC Machining

How Engineering Support Software Improves CNC Machining

For many years now, industrial high-quality machining and tooling couldn’t be accomplished without highly-advanced software and computer controls. That software becomes more intelligent each year, and to survive in this quickly changing field, manufacturing companies must learn to adapt and improve. At Bowman Tool & Machining, we’re committed to supporting innovation in machining, tooling, and custom precision manufacturing without compromising our production capabilities or our customer’s schedules. With our wide range of trusted software programs and engineering support, our production floor whirrs with the power of high-quality precision CNC machining in Rochester, MN.

BTM works with a wide range of highly efficient, advanced software programs to operate with our vertical and horizontal machining centers. This supports our engineering and production process to provide on-time service and reliable parts.

CADKEY: Our CADKEY software is considered one of the classic pioneers in computer-aided design software. With BTM’s Version 2:5.01 program, our engineers work to create a three-dimensional geometric visual design of part components and a fully-assembled part meeting the exact specifications of our customers

Mastercam: Mastercam is a forward-thinking software provider with solutions meeting BTM turning, milling, EDM, and CAD expectations for all our custom manufacturing projects. With their green initiative and versatile products, we feel good about our use of Mastercam software as a part of BTM engineering support.

PC-DNC: The Suburban Machinery Software, INC company has 36 years of experience in developing manufacturing software programs and has worked in the field from its beginnings as a viable solution to computer-controlled production. BTM utilizes wireless 5.0 PC-DNC software for communication on the floor, data gathering and analysis, and by-the-minute machine monitoring.

SOLIDWORKS: Engineering support systems would be lacking without the benefit that SOLIDWORKS software provide. From CAD/CAM to automated machining, their programs give our engineers the support they need from the ground up.

 Micro Estimating: The digital prediction and data analysis that Micro Estimating systems offer means our engineers can access exact numbers and simulated geometry for even the most complex parts. Our use of Micro Estimating software improves accuracy and reliability in design, precision machining, and assembly. 

CAMWorks: Custom manufacturing can meet all customer expectations and more with the software modules that CAMWorks provides. Multi-axis CNC milling, EDM, turning, and more is at your beck-and-call when you choose to work with BTM and our CAMWorks software.

Advanced software programs like these have opened the gates for unparalleled custom manufacturing capabilities, and with the BTM engineering support system, you can expect better products and services. To learn more about how our software promotes quality with CNC machining in Rochester, MN, contact BTM at (507) 286-1400 or request a quote to get started on your custom manufacturing project today.

 

Bowman Tool Quality & Delivery Performance

Bowman Tool Quality & Delivery Performance

1Q 2018


Capture126980116d29Capture123


Bowman Tool & Machining had another quarter of strong performance for 1Q 2018. In the areas of quality and delivery, we have exceeded our aggressive targets, and that is what our customers have come to expect. Our delivery performance target is 98% on-time; we have met or exceeded this target for each of the three months. As a matter of fact, for the last two months we were at 100%! Our quality performance target is less than 250 PPM. In the last two months, we were significantly below our target as well and in January we had ZERO defects!

These results are reflective of a very strong and seasoned team. Our machinists average eight years of experience, some have close to 25 years of experience! Our machines are maintained by our onsite maintenance team, who average 17 years of experience. One of our maintenance technicians has over 32 years of experience, all with Bowman Tool. We have a seasoned senior management team also, who average more than 25 years of service in the industry.

Bowman Tool & Machining’s debt is low. We are poised to make investments in the right areas to better serve our customers. Our vision statement is, “To have profitable growth through high customer satisfaction.” We live and act to achieve our vision statement each day.

Go to www.btmcnc.com to check us out further.