Consultation for production processes

“It is not easy to find seals like these of a reliably high quality,” says Rudi Langens, Senior Approvals of LAG Trailers N.V.. However, the engineers of Angst+Pfister were able to offer the desired seals in two versions, and explained to the customer the differences in price and quality. On the one hand there were cheaper extrusion parts designed as rings. “On the other hand, we suggested a pure injection moulding method whereby the parts are vulcanised to rings,” explains Jan Boomsma. In addition, Angst+Pfister suggested three different contractual periods which would guarantee the customer a set price for a set period of time. This allowed Angst+Pfister to optimise the production volume and processes, and make them economical – to the benefit of the customer in terms of price and logistics.

“In principle, it was a simple seal, but if there was not going to be a clean fit there might be problems with closing and opening the cap – or the seal might be dislodged from the groove. Injection moulding has a distinct quality advantage in this case – due to the smooth surface and the exact dimensions for serial production,” notes Jan Boomsma. Injection moulding parts seal better and are better at keeping within the tolerances. They are accurate to within 0.2 millimetres – in comparison to the 0.8 millimetres of extrusion parts. That makes assembly easier and the rings more durable. This is why LAG went for the more expensive injection moulding parts with a supply agreement across the entire supply chain for two years.

Growing together

“I visited the customer several times during the project and discussed numerous details with their engineers and buyers,” says Jan Boomsma. Open communication with the customer is absolutely crucial for projects like these – and for the engineers of Angst+Pfister the insights gained are always interesting. It is a matter of winning the trust of the customer.“ As the quality of these seals is exceptionally important for our silo semi-trailers, we approached this project with  a  great  deal of care,” says Rudi Langens. Angst+Pfister responded in a very professional manner – right through from the sample tests to serial production.

LAG has been using the seals for over two years now. “The quality and availability is first class,” extols Rudi Langens. For this reason, LAG has switched step-by-step to Angst+Pfister for all similar components in order to ensure quality and quantity. “The professionalism and knowledge of the engineers convinced us to broaden our partnership.”