Case Studies - JCB

Photos and Case Study with kind permission of JCB

This case study details a project completed at Datum. All processes and services were performed `in house`.

Datum are very proud of their long and well established relationship with JCB. JCB are world leaders in the manufacture of Agricultural and earthmoving vehicles. We were delighted to be approached to work with JCB in the production of a new GRP bonnet for the very successful Fastrac vehicle.

From initial concept sketches, drawings or as in this case CAD data, we can produce master pattern equipment either conventionally (by hand) or using our modern CAM facility.

At this stage it is possible to produce a prototype tool and some sample items for trail and evaluation. Some minor adjustments to the form of the pattern can then be made if necessary. However in this case the pattern was then be sprayed and polished to a quality finish ready for moulding.

Once tooling has been produced the manufacture of production items can commence.

All parts, made at Datum, can be fitted with any fixings or strengtheners impregnated ready for use by your company.

We can manufacture small quantities of ones and twos off, up to medium batch runs into the thousands. In this case we produce over 500 Fastrac Bonnets a year.

Stage 1 Cad model and CNC files generated by Delcam software.	Stage 2 CNC machining of the model.	Stage 3 Assembly of the model.
Stage 4 Model Refaced and polished to a high gloss finish.	Stage 5 Pigmented Gel-coat.	Stage 6 Fully laminated GRP item with steel inserts in place.
Stage 7 Trimming and finishing of GRP component.	Stage 8 Finished part on vehicles.

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