The general manager of the company highly values the relationship with AMADA. “Since the purchase of the first machine, we started an experience and journey that goes far beyond labour. AMADA offers you expertise and support to help you improve your business and opens your mind to new goals and ideas. They study each situation, offer the best solution and accompany you in every step. They also make you aware of all the options available so you can be sure that you have everything you need at all times”.
With nearly two decades of experience, the company Transformados Ruiz has become a benchmark in the field of sheet metal processing thanks to its flexibility and adaptation to new challenges. Their main objective is to provide impeccable service to their customers through an innovative productive capacity and a committed and enthusiastic team. This modern and environmentally involved company is committed to the most advanced technology promoted by AMADA, whom they consider its “most valuable” partner.
Transformados Ruiz was established in 1997 in Tudela (Navarra). Founded by Juan Carlos Ruiz, the company had its beginnings in machinery designed for the construction sector. In 2004 the company began to grow thanks to its employees’ hard work and a major production investment. Sadly, in 2006, Juan Carlos Ruiz past away and, his widow, Isabel Jimenez took over the company. Helped by the departmental managers, Isabel gave a new direction to this ambitious project.
From 2011 onwards, the company has opened up to other sectors with new ideas, with Manuel Saborido as Deputy Manager. Besides the construction industry, Transformados Ruiz started producing for sectors such as street furniture, metal fencing, wind systems as well as some other industries. This turning point coincides with the acquisition of their first AMADA machine, a decision that marked “a before and an after in our history,” reflects Isabel Jimenez.
Among the values of this strategic new approach, they highlight the commitment to the environment. In this sense, Transformados Ruiz has engaged in various projects with many entities, including the University of Navarra, the workshop school ‘The Work’, and sports sponsorships, such as Navarre Inmotec MotoGP team. It is clear Isabel is keen to maintain good relationships “One of our goals is to benefit those around us with our work. This is an attitude we always promote,”The director emphasizes her confidence in the management team, especially her sister, Marisa Jimenez, her “right hand” who is in charge of Quality and also Health and Safety areas.
Investing in AMADA
The relationship with AMADA began in 2011 with the acquisition of an electric punching machine EMZ 3610 NT, a machine that “offered us many benefits, such as: countersunk holes, marking, small forms and tapping. Having these options allowed us to make a major breakthrough in our production. The punching machine we had before was very old and the AMADA machine was a decisive leap for us,” explains the head of the company. The EM series punching machine employs AC dual servo-drive. This advanced machine combines high production speed, excellent reliability and numerous advantages in terms of cost and equipment.
A year later, the company put their trust again in AMADA when they invested in their first laser machine. “It was the machine we needed however it took a little longer to buy as the level of investment was much higher. However, once we were introduced to the AMADA technology, it was clear for us we needed a laser to expand our business to other sectors” comments Isabel.
Thus, they incorporated the laser LC 2415 ALPHA IV 4kW, a fast, precise and compact machine with a high speed and a reliable processing capability. The line manager tells us “the versatility and performance of this machine, gives us great flexibility and precision when working with different materials. It has a special table that guarantees no scratches when working with stainless steel. “
subsequently to replace the ALPHA laser for a fully automated EML 3610 laser/ punch combination machine. Isabel remarks “AMADA understood the situation and helped us make the change in a way that was beneficial to both parties. Also, the versatility Market evolution and the progress of one of its main customers led them of this machine is spectacular and has opened many doors that we never thought we could open before”
In early 2013, they purchased a HFEM2 400-6 a 400 ton 6m press brake because “the machines we had were running short when bending thicker material. The new machine bends with great reliability”. Later on, they added the HFEM2 130-3 press brake and finally the HFEM2 50-12. By the end of 2015, Transformados Ruiz also incorporated an HG 100-3 ATC press brake, with automatic tool changer, to its production system. In addition to the other three AMADA press brakes, this machine increases their versatility and reduces setup time between jobs considerably.
These multi-axis press brakes feature a patented lower beam design and a large workspace that gives greater flexibility to the operator. Moreover, a system combining energy saving and intuitive touch panels means the machines are using the most up to date technology. “It’s great to see how the machines are ready to work in just a few minutes after being programmed from the Technical Office,” comments production manager Manuel Saborido.
Last but not least, the company has a full suite of AMADA software, called VPSS, which includes AP100EU, SHEETWORKS and SOLIDWORKS and Dr. ABE Blank. AP100EU is a 2D CAD package ideal for creating layouts and importing files from an existing system. It also manages relevant information such as materials and bending specification allowing seamless information flow.
Meanwhile, SHEETWORKS, SOLIDWORKS and Dr. ABE Blank software “has allowed us to work with such a worldwide recognized tool as Solidworks. To own a license of this software has been an important milestone for the company. In the past, most pieces were designed with Autocad which had limitations, now we can teach customers how to design and develop a part that can get sent directly to the machine. Communication between the technical office and the workshop now flows freely”.
The best solution
The director also highlights the customer service offered by the Japanese company, because “the care, maintenance and training are wonderful. It is very easy to contact them, choose the time and days that best suits us with easy planning. They are always willing to help and answer any questions we may have. For sure, the attention is 10/10”.
For this Navarran company it is important to move forward, and Isabel realises their next challenge is to integrate automation. “We will need the support and collaboration of AMADA. We will continue counting with their valuable experience”.
This year, Transformados Ruiz has started its internationalization by working for companies in France and Morocco, and its products are already present in 13 countries on four continents through its Spanish customers. Thanks to their commitment to the latest technology and the quality of its service, they will undoubtedly continue to be a benchmark in the industry.