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Italian firm Idra, recognized for Tesla collaborations, recently secured Ford, Hyundai, and another European firm as clientele, spotlighting their pioneering Giga Presses.
Ford, Hyundai Embrace the Giga Press Technology
During an industry event, Idra showcased its latest achievements. According to Reuters, a 'Giga Press 6,100,' with a clamping force exceeding 6,000 tons, proudly displayed the Ford brand. This particular press, currently being tested at Idra's Travalgiato facility near Brescia, Italy, will soon be shipped to an R&D facility in Detroit.
A source said Idra was also about to sign a supply contract for two 9,000 presses with a premium European automaker, its first with a European group. Sources said Volvo had purchased two Idra Giga Presses for their new Eastern European plant.
It will be crucial for testing and benchmarking before integrating Giga Presses into production vehicles. Additionally, Idra unveiled the '9,000', its largest and newest model. Although the client's identity remains undisclosed, insiders suggest Hyundai will receive this colossal press, primarily designated for R&D purposes.
The Giga Press: Streamlining Production, Enhancing Efficiency
Idra CEO Riccardo Ferrario coined the term 'Giga Press' to describe their innovative machines, as per Autonews. These high-pressure aluminum die-casting machines inject molten aluminum, weighing more than 100 kg, into cold-chamber casting molds with remarkable velocity.
With a cycle time of approximately 120 seconds and the ability to produce 30 completed castings per hour, the Giga Press maximizes productivity. Three eight-hour shifts can yield around 500 castings daily, making it an efficient solution for automakers seeking to streamline their production processes.
Expanding Possibilities: From Underbodies to Battery Cases
Currently, Giga Presses produces front and rear underbodies, but Idra aims to expand its capabilities. Works are underway to introduce castings for battery cases and central platforms, incorporating battery cases into the manufacturing process.
These advancements signify a step toward a comprehensive casting solution for battery electric vehicles. Idra's Giga Presses vary in size, ranging from 19.7 x 7 x 6 meters to 22 x 8 x 6.5 meters, and possess clamping forces between 5,500 and 9,000 metric tons.
Photo: Peter Trones/Unsplash
