ATD has added a transfer unit to its existing 700T Aida servo press, marking a significant step forward in how parts are produced, handled and delivered to customers.
The investment began with a specific customer need.
An existing program required a more efficient way to produce a complex part in a single process. Traditional methods relied on multiple steps and additional handling, which added time, cost and variability. The challenge was not forming the part. The challenge was moving it through each stage without creating inefficiencies or excess scrap.
“We had an opportunity where a customer needed a part produced in one continuous process,” said Bill Bennett, president of ATD. “The transfer system allows ATD to provide parts in a more competitive method, avoiding secondary operations or reducing scrap.”
What started as a solution for one program quickly became a broader investment in capability.
In a conventional progressive die setup, parts move through the press using carriers. While effective, this method can introduce limitations.
Material must remain connected at each station, which can increase scrap and restrict how parts are designed. Secondary operations are often required when parts cannot be completed within the press. This adds handling, increases labor involvement and creates more opportunities for inconsistency.
“Stamping is straightforward. Moving the part through the die is where it becomes difficult,” said Mike Brucchieri, maintenance manager. “When you need material at each station, it limits flexibility and can drive up material usage.”
ATD needed a way to remove those constraints while maintaining production reliability.
ATD implemented a servo transfer unit integrated into its existing servo press, designed to move parts freely throughout the stamping process.
This system allows parts to be transferred independently from station to station without relying on carriers. As a result, parts can be produced in a single continuous process that previously required multiple steps.
With the servo transfer unit, ATD can:
“It gives us the ability to run progressive type stamping while minimizing scrap,” said Brucchieri. “The system moves the part through the process in a way that reduces material build up and improves flow.”
Bringing the integrated transfer unit for the servo press online required careful planning and coordination across teams.
The process took nearly a year from initial evaluation to full installation. ATD vetted multiple equipment partners, visited facilities to see similar machines in operation and worked closely with vendors to ensure long-term support.
“This is not a buy-it-and-leave investment,” said Brucchieri. “We needed the right partner who could support the equipment long term and help us stay up and running.”
Internally, the installation required detailed scheduling to avoid disruptions for customers. Teams adjusted shifts, coordinated downtime and supported training across departments. Maintenance played a key role in setup and integration, while operators quickly adapted to the new technology.
The result was a smooth transition that maintained production performance throughout the process.
The impact of the servo press with the integrated servo transfer system is already visible across operations.
Before the investment, parts often required multiple steps and additional handling. Material usage was tied to carrier design, and variability could be introduced during part movement.
With the new system in place, ATD has:
“It allows for more consistent quality, faster turnaround and cost efficiencies,” said Bennett. “It also reduces risk for our customers.”
The system also simplifies the design and build process, giving ATD more flexibility when quoting new work. It has also increased interest from customers looking for more efficient production methods.
“ATD has already landed four new projects due to having transfer capabilities,” Bennett said. “It opens us up to produce parts differently in a cost-effective manner.”
Beyond production improvements, the servo press with the new servo transfer capability is also shaping how ATD’s team works and grows.
The technology introduces new processes and hands-on learning opportunities for operators and maintenance teams. Early adoption has been strong, with employees building confidence quickly as they gain experience with the system.
At the same time, the equipment supports better use of labor by reducing manual intervention and allowing team members to focus on higher-value work.
“We are using technology, and the team has taken to it quickly,” said Brucchieri. “That hands-on experience is important as we continue to grow.”
This investment reflects ATD’s ongoing focus on expanding capabilities and supporting long-term growth.
“We will continue to invest in technologies that we do not currently possess,” said Bennett. “We will always look at what helps our team and company growth.”
With the servo press now equipped with an integrated servo transfer unit, ATD is better positioned to take on complex projects, improve efficiency and support customers with new approaches to metal stamping.
Contact ATD today to see how our servo press capabilities can support your next project.