SolidWorks Software Assists Metso Texas Shredder

Metso Texas Shredder Inc., San Antonio, is using SolidWorks software to design all of its custom replacement parts.

According to a press release from SolidWorks, the company’s software allows Texas Shredder “to cut design time in half, reduce errors and streamline custom retrofit part development.”

"SolidWorks allows us to quickly and accurately perform design analysis including parts weight and center of gravity calculations to ensure our machines will continue to perform as expected," Metso Texas Shredder Design Engineer Felipe Gonzalez says. "With our 2D software, we had to calculate each part's weight by hand to get a rough estimate. We also had to redraw designs to incorporate changes. SolidWorks saves time by giving us exact weight figures and automating design changes."

The software automates weldment creation so engineers can quickly and accurately design metal joints that will withstand the fierce shocks from the shredding process.

According to Gonzalez, using SolidWorks has reduced design time from four weeks to two. Intuitive tables allow engineers to plug in different part specifications to accelerate customization. Engineers also use SolidWorks to create 3D models of its products for sales presentations and internal project reviews for management.

"There are few mechanical environments as demanding as the inside of a metal shredder," said SolidWorks Vice President of Worldwide Marketing Rainer Gawlick. "Everything from the 4-inch thick walls to the manganese hammers must be exact. Using SolidWorks ensures engineers design Metso Texas Shredders to last longer and meet all production requirements."

Metso Texas Shredder uses authorized SolidWorks reseller MLC CAD Systems Inc., with offices in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama and Arizona, for ongoing software training, implementation and support.

SolidWorks is based in Concord, Mass. The company develops and markets software for design, analysis and product data management.