DM Squared: A Journey of Precision and Growth with Autodesk Fusion Introduction

Building on decades of expertise, in 2023—following the sale of the pump company—Derek rebranded the business as DM Squared. Today, DM Squared remains dedicated to delivering CNC engineering excellence. The company continues to excel in CNC turning, milling, conventional machining, and light fabrication, utilizing high-quality, precision CNC equipment that is consistently updated and maintained. This enduring commitment to quality and innovation reflects a legacy of growth and precision that has been in the making for over two decades.

Customer Challenges

DM Squared faced numerous challenges in its early stages. With no prior experience using Autodesk Fusion, the company needed a robust solution that would allow it to produce high-quality components efficiently. Key challenges included:

• Manual G-Code Programming: Prior to adopting Autodesk Fusion, DM Squared relied on manually inputting G-code into their CNC machines. This process was time-consuming, prone to errors, and limited the complexity of parts that could be produced.
• High Complexity of Engineering Components: Working with power stations and hydraulic systems meant dealing with intricate components, such as valve blocks and large-volume parts, requiring precision machining.
• Cycle Time Optimisation: Handling bulk orders, including their current workload of 7,500 pieces, required improvements in cycle times to maintain profitability.
• Cost and Tooling Efficiency: Traditional machining methods resulted in excessive tooling costs and inefficient machining strategies.
• Scaling Up Operations: As an evolving business, DM Squared needed to rapidly scale its operations without compromising quality or efficiency.

Design Solutions

To overcome these challenges, DM Squared turned to Baker Baynes for Autodesk Fusion software and comprehensive training. The implementation of Autodesk Fusion, coupled with expert guidance, provided several transformative solutions:

• Automated CAM Programming: Fusion’s ability to generate G-code automatically eliminated the need for manual programming, drastically reducing time spent in front of machines.
• Enhanced Precision and Quality: The software enabled DM Squared to create highly accurate components, reducing errors and improving product quality.
• Adaptive Machining Techniques: Features like adaptive clearing and tricoidal milling helped DM Squared optimise tool paths, improve machining efficiency, and extend tool life.
• Seamless File Integration: Clients could send digital design files directly to DM Squared, which could then be imported into Autodesk Fusion for immediate production.

Business Benefits

The integration of Autodesk Fusion into DM Squared’s workflow has led to significant business improvements:

• Dramatic Reduction in Programming Time: Automated G-code generation has saved substantial time. Derek mentions, “What once took hours of manual input can now be completed in minutes.”
• Improved Cycle Times: The ability to optimise machining paths has significantly reduced the time required to produce large batches, increasing overall efficiency. For example, a workload involving 7,500 components is now completed more efficiently than with traditional methods.
• Cost Savings on Tooling: Autodesk Fusion’s advanced machining strategies have minimised tool wear. Derek shares, “We’ve been able to extend the lifespan of expensive tooling components, saving on replacements.”
• Higher Client Satisfaction and Repeat Business: The precision and quality of machined parts have impressed clients, leading to more repeat orders. “Clients do notice the change,” says Derek. “And repeat business is a direct result of that precision.”
• Scalability and Future Growth: The efficiency gained through Autodesk Fusion enabled DM Squared to invest in three new CNC machines within a year. Derek reflects, “Fusion has made it easier for us to scale up operations. We’ve been able to handle more complex projects with ease.”
• Enhanced Competitiveness: Despite being a small company, DM Squared can now compete with larger firms by delivering high-quality components with shorter lead times. Derek adds, “Being able to produce components quickly and accurately has put us in direct competition with the big players.”

Exploration of Digital Prototyping

Fusion’s digital prototyping capabilities have allowed DM Squared to transition from physical sampling to virtual models, reducing material waste and speeding up the design validation process. Derek says, “It’s a godsend. I can import client designs into Fusion and get straight to work—no more wasting material on physical samples.”

Exceptional Support from Baker Baynes

One of the unexpected yet invaluable benefits that DM Squared experienced was the outstanding support from Baker Baynes. Derek shared, “I know that whenever I face a challenge, I can call Peter or the team for guidance. It’s reassuring to know that expert help is just a phone call away.”

Conclusion

DM Squared’s journey demonstrates the transformative power of adopting the right technology and training. By partnering with Baker Baynes and utilising Autodesk Fusion, the company has successfully navigated the industry challenges, achieving remarkable growth and efficiency over the years. Their ability to scale operations, invest in new machinery, and continuously improve their manufacturing capabilities in such a short time is truly exceptional. The company’s ability to remain agile and embrace cutting-edge technology ensures that it will continue to thrive in the ever-evolving engineering landscape. With Autodesk Fusion as a cornerstone of its operations, DM Squared is well-positioned to push the boundaries of precision engineering and manufacturing excellence. The future looks exceptionally bright for this dynamic engineering firm, as it continues to innovate and expand its capabilities in an increasingly competitive industry.