萬代 List of Products and Services

"I received a bearing that is different from the model I ordered...?" Such voices can be heard here and there in the bearing procurement field. Behind this, there are often **"manufacturer-specific symbols" that are not listed in the catalog.** For example, models like "6900ZZ1CM" or "6900ZZ1NXR*" may seem familiar at first glance, but symbols like "1" or "NXR" are not included in the catalog, which can confuse newcomers and customers. While veterans might brush it off as "Oh, that's a common one," it can be quite troublesome for those who are not used to it. This can lead to procurement mistakes or inquiries. That’s why we at Bandai make sure to thoroughly support you with such "confusing aspects." If you ever think, "This model looks unfamiliar..." please feel free to reach out to Bandai. We will provide clear explanations. *This kind of support is just a small part of what Bandai does every day. Please take a look at the value we can offer to our customers.*

• Metal bearings

A request for rod-shaped machined products from a customer. When we asked multiple lathe machining companies in the "Hometown Processing Network" for estimates, the responses were almost all "processing not possible." Upon confirming the reasons, many expressed that "the geometric tolerances are too strict." Indeed, while the specifications may be precise on paper, factors such as manufacturing difficulty, cost, and lead time significantly impact actual processing on the shop floor. This time, after confirming the customer's intentions, we adjusted the tolerance specifications, which ultimately allowed for smooth and realistic processing responses. The professionals in design and those in processing—bridging the gap between them, aligning intentions, and connecting to the site in the optimal way—this is one of the important roles of Bandai. *Such responses are just a small part of what Bandai does daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Processing Contract

The request from the customer was for high-precision machining of copper pins, reducing from φ6 to φ2, with M4 tapping included. At first glance, copper may seem like an "easy-to-machine material," but due to its softness and tendency to deform, along with strict tolerances, general lathes cannot handle it, making precision machining with NC lathes essential. However, for extremely small diameters like this, chucking on an NC lathe itself is difficult. A partner who previously processed φ4 SUS material also responded that they could not accommodate this condition. Nevertheless, we did not give up and found a machining company within the "Hometown Processing Network" that has specialized technology for small diameters, successfully leading to an order. Copper material × high precision × extremely small diameter—this project made me realize that a comprehensive knowledge of materials and a strong machining network are necessary to address all these factors. *This kind of response is just a small part of what Bandai does every day. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Processing Contract

We received a request from a customer to perform additional processing on a standard bevel gear from a certain gear manufacturer. The "material" section of the drawing listed the model of the standard product, and both our company and the processing contractor proceeded with the prototype based on that information. However, after delivering the prototype, we were pointed out by the quality control representative that "the hardness is different." In a hurry, we rechecked the drawing and found that there was a clear hardness specification exceeding the standard product's hardness range mentioned separately in the drawing. This was a moment of reflection for us as professionals, caused by the assumption that "there should be no problem since it's a standard product" and a lack of thorough verification. Fortunately, we were able to address it with heat treatment, but it reinforced the idea that drawings should not only be reviewed at the beginning but should be examined thoroughly until the end. We will ensure that we do not waste this experience and will be diligent in checking every detail moving forward. *This kind of response is just a small part of the initiatives that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Processing Contract

Heat treatment is a very important factor in the production of processed products. However, it is often difficult to distinguish between good and bad products based solely on their appearance, so it is essential to have a precise understanding of the process. If heat treatment is ordered without sufficient understanding, it could lead to significant problems later on. Our company has also had bitter experiences in the past where issues arose from heat treatment. Therefore, our company has conducted several internal study sessions, and our employees have a good understanding of the content and risks associated with heat treatment. Now, we will explain this in an easy-to-understand manner using the example of gears. *For detailed content of the blog, please refer to the related links. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• Processing Contract

What is lost when something becomes hard? That is toughness. Toughness is like the ductility that a material possesses. When hardness increases, this ductility is compromised. What happens when toughness is compromised? Let’s take diamond, the hardest mineral in the world, as an example. While diamonds are thought to be extremely hard, this is only effective against wear and scratches; they can easily break when subjected to impact, such as from a hammer. This indicates that while diamonds have very high surface hardness, their internal toughness is very low. *For more details, you can view the related links. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• Processing Contract

There are four main methods of heat treatment. The toughness I mentioned last time is imparted by performing "tempering." It is often said "quenching and tempering," and it is common to carry out these processes together to give steel surface hardness and toughness. Annealing and normalizing are not frequently used in the processing we mainly handle, but the photo of the handle at the beginning shows that annealing was performed to soften the iron and bend it. The root part of the bend has undergone annealing. Without annealing, it would be hard, and cracks would occur during bending, or it would break. *You can view the detailed content of the blog through the related links. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• Steel
• Processing Contract

"What is Chokou?" - This simple question prompted us to hold a study session on cemented carbide within Bandai. We shared information on material properties such as hardness and ductility, processing risks, the challenges of tool selection, and even examples of how we have addressed these issues in our company. What I felt again during this session is that correctly understanding the properties of materials directly reduces the risk of failure during processing and leads to better decisions regarding optimal manufacturing methods. For example, in a previous order for a cemented carbide product, we assumed that "adhesion is impossible" and manufactured everything in cemented carbide, only to later learn about an alternative called "cemented carbide thermal spraying." If we had known the options from the beginning, it might have led to reduced costs and processing risks - it was an eye-opening experience. Next time, I will provide a detailed introduction to the actual case of "cemented carbide thermal spraying." *Such initiatives are just a small part of what Bandai does every day. Please take a look at the value we can offer to our customers.

• alloy
• Processing Contract

The "thermal spraying" technology involves melting metals and ceramics and spraying them onto the surface of a substrate. Among these, carbide thermal spraying offers significant advantages in both cost and processing risk, as it allows for high wear resistance only in the necessary areas. Previously, there was a project where all components made of S45C + carbide were produced entirely from carbide, but in hindsight, I feel that a more rational proposal could have been made using carbide thermal spraying. Due to a lack of knowledge, I was unable to make that suggestion at the time, but I will strive to utilize this learning and present the optimal options next time. *Such responses are just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Processing Contract

Hollow, complex shapes, and high strength... We are realizing designs that were difficult with conventional processing methods using 3D printer technology. At Bandai, we showcased our modeling samples at the Kansai Machine Element Technology Exhibition in 2019, receiving much feedback on the precision and beauty of the appearance. The 3D printer used for modeling is the Markforged METALX, which supports a variety of materials such as SUS, Inconel, and titanium, and is capable of high-density modeling with a 50μ pitch. Furthermore, through collaboration with the "Hometown Processing Network," we ensure strength with layered designs in partnership with specialized institutions. However, even if the machine is excellent, without proposals that understand and utilize it, we cannot secure orders. Next time, we will focus on how to "sell" this 3D printer and briefly introduce Bandai's sales style. *This kind of response is just a small part of what Bandai does every day. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• 3D Printer

With the evolution of 3D printers, we have entered an era where parts with hollow structures and complex shapes, which were previously difficult to process, can now be produced with short lead times and low costs. Particularly in the case of prototypes and one-off items, where material waste can be significant, additive manufacturing has overwhelming advantages. On the other hand, for parts that require high-precision finishing and strict dimensional tolerances, traditional machining remains essential. In other words, it is not about "which is superior," but rather about discerning "which is optimal." At Bandai, we leverage our network that accommodates both 3D printing and machining to propose the best manufacturing method according to drawings and specifications. This "discerning ability" that connects technology and the field is the foundation of our sales style. *This type of response is just a small part of what Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can offer to our customers.

• 3D Printer

"Do you have any experience in manufacturing processed products for vehicles?" One day, this question arrived from a train vehicle manufacturer, marking the beginning of a new challenge. While we had a track record of supplying off-the-shelf products (such as bearings), we had zero experience with processed products. Nevertheless, based on our past delivery records and evaluations of our finishing quality, I confidently replied, "We do not have a track record of supplying processed products for train vehicles, but we have never received complaints regarding our finishing quality." Amidst the tension, after providing thorough explanations, we secured inquiries for processed products for six vehicles due to interior renovations. Initially, the requests were mainly for relatively low-difficulty tasks such as laser and brake processing, but by accumulating achievements in delivery times, pricing, and quality, we eventually expanded into consultations for high-difficulty processing such as welding and assembly. This experience reflects how the technical capabilities of the "Hometown Processing Network" gradually shaped trust. *Please note that this type of response is just a small part of what Bandai does on a daily basis. We invite you to see the value we can provide to our customers.*

• Processing Contract

The company H that we are introducing this time is a sheet metal processing manufacturer known for its finishing quality within the "Hometown Processing Network." They have extensive delivery records for the food industry and railway vehicle manufacturers, and their burr-free finishes and beautiful weld beads are highly regarded. In fact, for this project, we received compliments from the customer stating, "The finish is very beautiful." However, due to the strict standards specific to railway vehicles, we unexpectedly received a notification for re-manufacturing. After applying TIG welding and anodizing to an aluminum product measuring 1 meter in length, spatter marks about 1mm in diameter emerged after processing. This phenomenon, which was not visible during processing and only appeared after anodizing, is a point that can only be recognized with an understanding of the usage environment. For products like railway vehicles that are handled by many people, even "sensitivity" becomes a factor in quality evaluation. This incident has reaffirmed the importance of "depth of understanding of application" alongside high technical skills. *Such responses are just a small part of the initiatives that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Welding Machine
• Processing Contract

As you read through the blog, many of you may have wondered, "What is the Hometown Processing Network?" This time, we will answer that question in full and address the simple query, "Why 'hometown'?" In fact, the charges of local processors differ significantly from those in urban areas. Supporting this price difference are capable processors who have major agricultural machinery manufacturers (K Company, Y Company, I Company, M Company) as their clients. They are a "professional group" forged under strict cost demands. Bandai connects directly with these excellent local processors and achieves a balance of high quality and low prices by matching optimal projects. Next time, we will introduce the background of how this network was created! *Such efforts are just a small part of what Bandai does on a daily basis. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Processing Contract

In order to find partners for mass production sheet metal processing, I spent days making dozens of cold calls to processing companies nationwide. Even so, I was struggling to find any promising leads and felt stuck. It was during this time that the executive of a prototype processing company in Shimane, who has been a great help to us, casually mentioned, "Shall I introduce you to a sheet metal company strong in mass production?" — that one remark was the beginning of everything. The person in charge at the introduced company came from the prototype department of an agricultural machinery manufacturer. They excel in the know-how of keeping costs down without compromising quality, and there are processing companies nearby that can handle welding, cutting, and surface treatment. A system was established that could handle 700 items in one go within a few minutes' drive, and at that moment, the "Hometown Processing Network" was born. The answer was not far away, but right next to trust. *This kind of support is just a small part of what Bandai does every day. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Processing Contract

Bandai is trusted by many customers as a "spring professional" with a proven track record in proposals for both coil springs and leaf springs. In particular, coil springs are precision components where the load varies finely based on wire diameter, coil diameter, winding direction, and number of turns, yet they are often scrutinized for cost as consumables. During the prototype stage, setup costs and delivery times with NC machines become challenges, but Bandai has established a system that allows for "hand-winding" by skilled artisans. We flexibly respond to special specifications that cannot be wound with NC machines and to short-term prototype requests, receiving production orders from spring manufacturers nationwide. Bandai's strength lies not only in "processing equipment" but also in leveraging "technology and people." If you are facing issues with coil springs, please feel free to consult us. *This type of response is just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Spring

The "leaf spring," which is essential for agricultural machinery, may not stand out in appearance, but it is a high-performance component that requires durability, the ability to handle repeated loads, and a stable spring constant. At Bandai, we collaborate with specialized processing companies that have a track record of working with major agricultural machinery manufacturers, including companies K, Y, and I, in the production of leaf springs. Our manufacturing system is characterized by the ability to complete all processes in-house, from material selection to press mold production, blank processing, bending, and hardening. This integrated management system enables us to respond quickly from mold setup to mass production and to meet strict quality and delivery management standards. Additionally, for parts that require precision, we also perform wire cutting and complex shape press processing, allowing us to make optimal proposals tailored to product characteristics. If you are facing issues with leaf springs for agricultural machinery, please consult with Bandai, which has a proven track record, trustworthiness, and responsiveness. *This type of response is just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.*

• Spring

Have you ever looked at a drawing and thought, "Can't this be processed with machining?" In reality, if you make a mistake in selecting the processing machine, it can have a significant impact on cost and delivery time. In this blog, we will focus on the differences between 3-axis and 5-axis machining centers and discuss the "key points for determining processing methods." For example, consider a shape like a "round groove" on the outer circumference—at first glance, it may seem like machining could handle it, but the "φ" symbol on the drawing indicates dimensions based on lathe processing. It requires the ability to correctly assess the compatibility between the equipment and the shape. How to interpret the constraints of the site that are not visible in the design and the strengths and weaknesses of the machines—this is the first step toward making accurate processing proposals. Understanding the equipment and collaborating with the processing site helps prevent things from going "off the drawing." This content is something we would like not only young professionals but also those in design and technical departments to read! *Such responses are just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Machining Center
• lathe
• Processing Contract

"I thought standard machining was 5-axis" — This remark from a new employee during on-the-job training prompted us to organize the differences between 3-axis and 5-axis machining machines and the criteria for their selection. 5-axis machining machines have a configuration that adds two axes of tilt and rotation to the three axes of the spindle, making them strong in multi-surface machining and complex curved surface machining with one chucking. On the other hand, there are many cases where 3-axis machining is sufficient depending on the machining content, and choosing 5-axis can lead to excessive investment in terms of both man-hours and costs. It is necessary to select equipment according to the differences in mechanisms such as simultaneous 5-axis and indexing 5-axis, as well as the workpiece shape and precision requirements. The "Hometown Processing Network" not only provides equipment specifications but also offers optimal matching proposals based on the machining content! *This kind of response is just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Machining Center

"Impressed by the beautiful finish" "This quality at this price? Isn't it too cheap?" — The surprising feedback we received was for a canning product made from SUS304 thin plates (φ400) with spot welding. The drawing only specified spot welding, but we proposed a unique solution by first applying TIG welding as a distortion countermeasure and then adding spot welding as a supplement, achieving both strength and appearance. The value of this "extra effort" resonates with customers who are particular about quality. What are the reasons behind our processing know-how that can handle small lots and high difficulty, as well as our price competitiveness? This is a must-see case for those struggling with SUS canning or considering VA/VE design! *Such efforts are just a small part of what Bandai does every day. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Welding Machine
• Processing Contract

Is it too good to be true to be 'cheap, fast, and good'? — No, there are proper 'reasons' for it. We will delve into the 'secret of the low cost' of the 'Hometown Processing Network' that we introduced earlier. The key lies with H, a professional in welding and prototype processing. By maximizing their strengths in can manufacturing, they optimized costs through reduced setup times and improved processing efficiency. Identifying the 'strengths and weaknesses' that cannot be discerned from equipment lists or websites and ensuring optimal matching is the true essence of Bandai. We would like to present practical examples that those who want to maintain high quality while keeping costs down should definitely read. *Such efforts are just a small part of what Bandai does on a daily basis. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Processing Contract

Are you familiar with "5 Whys Analysis"? It is a method of identifying the "essential cause" rather than just the superficial cause by repeatedly asking "why?" five times in response to troubles or challenges. In the past, when I was in charge of a medical device manufacturer, I had a bitter experience where the lack of depth in this analysis led to ineffective recurrence prevention measures. Even answers that seem reasonable at first glance can turn out to be off the mark when explored from different angles. Nowadays, companies like Toyota are utilizing "5 Whys Analysis" not only in inventory and brand strategies but also in various situations, highlighting the demand for "thinking skills" beyond just technical fields. This time, I will focus on this "5 Whys Analysis" and share tips for applying it to recurrence prevention and business improvement! *For more details, you can view the blog through the related link. For more information, please feel free to download the PDF or contact us.

• Other semiconductors

"Can you bend this?" This is a common inquiry we receive regarding the processing of steel pipes and round bars, but there are many underlying conditions such as bend radius, total length, diameter, wall thickness, tolerances, lot numbers, and whether there are subsequent processes involved. At Bandai, we assess the optimal method from multiple processing techniques, including NC pipe benders, press brakes, single-action presses, and burner heating, and provide proposals accordingly. Even in cases where bending as per the drawing is not possible, we can respond with proposals that are **"not constrained by processing,"** such as welding and assembly. Additionally, assembly support involving drilling, end processing, and welding can be handled seamlessly through our **"Hometown Processing Network."** From prototypes to mass production and complex processes, please feel free to consult us! *Please note that this type of response is just a small part of what Bandai does on a daily basis. We invite you to see the value we can provide to our customers.*

• Processing Contract

Tough pitch copper—this material, which is particularly difficult to process even among pure copper, has seen an increase in prototype requests. The reason lies in the characteristics sought by customers. It is not the high thermal conductivity, but rather the high surface roughness requirements aimed at "light reflectivity." However, this copper is soft, ductile, and prone to copper powder adhering to cutting tools, making the processing conditions extremely strict. When a surface roughness of Ra0.1 is required, meticulous attention is needed to avoid processing deformation and ensure finishing quality. Our company can provide proposals and responses that take into account processing know-how and inspection processes. In fact, we handle it with extremely careful processes, such as separately processing dedicated samples to prevent inspection scratches. If you are struggling with fine processing of pure copper, please feel free to consult us. Our accumulated know-how and "Hometown Processing Network" will surely be of assistance to you. *This type of response is just a small part of the initiatives that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can offer to our customers.

• Other metal materials
• Processing Contract

We are the authorized sales agent for the manufacturer "Nissei," whose main product is gear motors. This time, we would like to introduce the **new product "UXIMO"** that was highly recommended by the Nissei representative, as it is very appealing! UXIMO is a high-rigidity, large-diameter hollow type reducer, a new model released in 2021 aimed at joint axis applications. It employs a planetary gear structure utilizing an eccentric oscillating crankshaft internally. This resolves the issues of low rigidity and shaft diameter limitations that have been challenges in conventional reducers, greatly expanding design flexibility. Moreover, the delivery time is as short as one month. While competing manufacturers take over six months, we have a significant advantage in terms of speed of implementation. The pricing is also comparable to competitors, and through our agency, it can be even more advantageous...!? If you are interested in robots, AGVs, positioners, or similar products, please feel free to contact us! *For more details, you can view the blog through the related link. For further information, please download the PDF or feel free to reach out to us.*

• gear

One of the particularly important keywords in the high-rigidity reducer "UXIMO" from Nissay, which we introduced last time, is "planetary gear." Immediately, a question came from within the company—specifically from our new employee, Mr. O. "What is a planetary gear?" Even if many have heard of mechanical terms, there are likely many who do not fully understand them. Therefore, this time, we have gently explained the purpose and characteristics of planetary gears. Why are planetary gears chosen in situations where a compact reduction mechanism is required? By grasping that "reason," the "structural edition" we will introduce next time will surely become clearer! *You can view the detailed content of the blog through the related links. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

• gear

In the previous installment, we introduced the theme "What is a Planetary Gear?" in an easy-to-understand manner, covering its purpose and features. This time, as a continuation, we will explain the structure of the planetary gear mechanism and how the reduction is achieved. The planetary gear mechanism consists of three gears: the sun gear, the planet gears, and the ring gear. By fixing one of these, we can create movements such as reduction, reversal, and acceleration. This time, we will focus on the representative "reduction structure with the ring gear fixed" and explain how each gear takes on power and what roles they play. Particularly noteworthy is the complex motion of the planet gears, which both "rotate" and "orbit." This movement is the key to enabling a compact and highly efficient reduction mechanism. By understanding the workings of planetary gears, your perspective on design and selection should change as well. Please be sure to read to the end! *For more detailed content, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to download the PDF or contact us.

• gear

In the previous content, we explained the purpose, features, and basic structure of the planetary gear mechanism. This time, as a conclusion, we will introduce the mechanisms of "speed increase" and "reverse" that occur when the sun gear and planetary carrier are fixed. The operation of the planetary gear mechanism changes significantly depending on which component is fixed and where the input and output are taken. In this presentation, we use still images to clearly organize the movement of the gears and their relationships while explaining the structural points. The planetary gear mechanism can control not only the reduction but also the rotation speed and direction. Please take a look at the high applicability hidden within its simple structure. *For more detailed content, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

• gear

"We want to utilize the mold we are currently using and have it processed externally." We receive many such inquiries at Bandai. However, since the molds are designed to fit the customer's press machine, they often cannot be used if simply transferred to a different factory. Differences in die height and bolster position can lead to issues and risks of mold damage. In response to customers who say, "We don't want to create a new mold," Bandai has carried out numerous transfers through modifications of existing molds. The modifications are done by craftsmen from the "Hometown Processing Network," who are well-versed in AMADA press machines. They ensure a fit with minimal adjustments, achieving low costs and short delivery times. We have a track record of transferring hundreds of molds. If you want to make the most of your existing molds, please feel free to consult with us! *This is just a small part of the initiatives that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Press Dies

"Do you handle neodymium magnets?" From that single inquiry, Bandai's new challenge began. The customer had been purchasing neodymium magnets as components to be integrated into their equipment through an e-commerce site, but they were troubled by the complexities of accounting processes and the risk of stock shortages. Starting next fiscal year, the usage is expected to increase dramatically to 5,000 units per year. At this point, "stable supply" becomes an absolute requirement. As a trading company, we believe that "if goods are being distributed, there is always a solution." Based on this belief, we discovered a reliable company that specializes in the manufacturing and sales of neodymium magnets. We established a procurement system focused on corporate sourcing that cannot be obtained through e-commerce. *This type of response is just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.*

• magnet

I previously mentioned that we alleviated the customer's concerns and received an order for neodymium magnets, but when customers request a quote, their expectations are not limited to just stable supply. Furthermore, it is not always the case that customers request quotes only from our company; there are often instances where they reach out to multiple competitors. Therefore, this time I will convey "what is the most important thing to consider when requesting a quote." *You can view the detailed content of the blog through the related link. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• Other contract services

The other day, shortly after 5 PM, we received a request for a quote for five processed items from a customer. The requester is a major printing manufacturer with whom we had a connection at a previous exhibition. Among the items, the one that caught our attention was a can structure using a 2m SS400 square pipe. The requirement for the perpendicularity of the end face was a strict tolerance of within 0.05mm, and there was also a specification for baked paint. Since it involves multiple processes, coordination and planning are crucial for preparing the estimate. Furthermore, the deadline for the response was the next morning—making it a race against time. In the limited time available, I would like to share how we proceeded with the response. *This kind of response is just a small part of what Bandai does on a daily basis. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.*

• Other contract services

The request for a quote for processed products that include large sizes, strict tolerances, and coatings adds the challenge of time. Although it was initially deemed "difficult to accommodate," this led to the creation of connections between processing companies. Thanks to the prompt communication with another processing company, both the meetings and the quoting process advanced rapidly. This incident reaffirmed the value of a locally rooted processing network. *Such responses are just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can offer to our customers.*

• Prototype Services

When replacing engines overseas, a common issue that arises is "non-standard keyway dimensions." Recently, we received an inquiry from an agricultural machinery manufacturer regarding **a keyway machining with a width of 4.76mm, which is an inch standard**. In the prototyping stage, it can be addressed with wire cutting. However, when considering mass production, selecting the appropriate method becomes crucial. Taking into account processing costs, delivery times, and reproducibility, it is necessary to find the optimal solution among broaching, slotting, and wire cutting. In this article, we will introduce how to approach such "special dimension keyways," including key points for selecting processing methods and examples of our responses. *Please note that such responses are just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. We invite you to learn more about the value we can provide to our customers.*

• Other contract services

The other day, one of our sales employees consulted about the contents of a drawing. "Regarding the pulley in the drawing, is it possible to manufacture it using the rolling pulley processing machine from ○○ Seiko?" The drawing specifies a structure of an FC material multi-stage pulley, which cannot be produced with a rolling pulley processing machine. Since the lot size is not large, mold forming is difficult, so we proceeded with a quote based on cutting processing. By the way, are you familiar with "rolling pulleys"? It might not be a term you hear often. *You can view the detailed content of the blog through the related link. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• Belts and pulleys

"I want to make it lighter, but I can't compromise on strength." "I want to keep costs down, but aluminum is expensive." There is an answer to this pulley design dilemma: "rolled pulleys." By laser cutting SPCC material and forming a V groove through rolling, we achieve lightweight, high rigidity, and low cost. Additionally, we can accommodate key grooves and boss welding, making it widely usable with general V belts and resulting in zero initial costs. It has been adopted in many fields, including agricultural machinery manufacturers, and has a wealth of proven results. Now is the time to reconsider the conventional "norms." If you are struggling with design, VA/VE, or cost reviews, please take a moment to read this. *This is just a small part of the initiatives that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Belts and pulleys

Our company works with various processing companies that have different strengths, starting with the well-known "Hometown Processing Network" featured in our blog, and we have over 50 business partners. Our role is to break down the customer's requests in advance regarding precision, LOT, delivery time, price, quality, and so on, and to make requests to the appropriate processing companies. The processing companies that cooperate with us are, in a good way, very specialized. *You can view the detailed content of the blog through the related links. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• Processing Contract

To the purchasing managers who are in such trouble, my proposal is metal 3D printing that can be shaped regardless of form or LOT. I promptly requested a quote from a processing company that owns a "metal 3D printer" and received a response. "It's so expensive!" The price is several times that of the current products. With that amount, you could purchase multiple lost-wax items. However, the issues at hand are "delivery time" and "inventory management hassle." Price should be secondary. *You can view the detailed content of the blog through the related link. For more information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• 3D Printer

Recently, I received an inquiry from a purchasing manager regarding the replacement of lost wax products. The lead time for the lost wax products currently being procured is long, and even when checking the delivery date, there are no accurate answers. It seemed that the purchasing manager was under maximum stress. Additionally, the manufacturing lot is also a source of concern, as they are ordering more than the required amount in a single order for inventory management. *For more details, you can view the blog through the related link. For further information, please feel free to download the PDF or contact us.*

• Other contract services

Our sales representative had questions regarding the processing details. The drawing specifies a heat-treated steel with a size of φ500 and a half-ring shape weighing 30 tons, with multiple long holes and tapped holes. The first processing method that comes to mind for this drawing is machining. However, machining has poor material yield and results in high costs. Upon reviewing the conditions, it is noted that there are several repetitions per year with a quantity of 100 pieces per lot, so the customer considers this a part for which they want to reduce costs. *For more details, you can view the blog through the related link. For further information, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.*

• Forging Machine

装置補修用の部品一式についてお見積依頼をいただいた際、目に留まったのが多数のアルミ切削加工品。これは萬代が力を発揮できる領域です。なぜなら、私たちは“アルミ加工だけを極めた”専門工場と提携しているから。材料はアルミ限定、加工機・治具・管理体制まですべてがアルミ専用設計。社内でアルマイト処理まで一貫対応します。 一見、海外の方がコストメリットがあるように見えますが、実際は素材規格の違いや追加工程によって、かえってコストや精度に影響するケースも少なくありません。だからこそ、萬代はあえて国内。専門性に裏打ちされた品質と対応力が、最適な解決策を導きます。 ※このような対応は、萬代が日々行っている取組のごく一部にすぎません。 私たちがお客様にご提供できる価値について、是非ご覧ください。

• aluminum
• Other cutting tools

We received a request from a major manufacturer to engrave all parts, including prototypes. Among these, the engraving of QR codes has garnered particular attention. You may be wondering, "Can QR codes be engraved on metal?" but there is no problem if you work with a sheet metal partner company from the "Hometown Processing Network." They are equipped with laser engraving machines that can handle a variety of materials such as iron, stainless steel, and aluminum, allowing for high-precision and readable QR code engravings. Furthermore, this company has established a system that can handle not only engraving but also sheet metal processing and simple assembly, enabling consistent support for both prototypes and mass production. *This type of support is just a small part of what Bandai does on a daily basis. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• Laser marker

"The electroless nickel plating on stainless steel peeled off during assembly..." This report caused a temporary uproar at the site. The SUS product was intentionally plated considering the sliding with the counterpart parts and its appearance, but due to an unexpected trouble, there was a possibility of a line stop for the customer. Where is the cause? In fact, a specific "property" unique to stainless steel was influencing the situation. This time, we will share the pitfalls of electroless nickel plating on SUS materials and points to prevent peeling based on actual experiences. *Such responses are just a small part of the efforts that Bandai engages in daily. Please take a look at the value we can provide to our customers.

• stainless

"Stainless steel is resistant to rust, but plating does not adhere well." Do you know the reason for this? In fact, it is largely related to the **"oxide film" unique to stainless steel**. While this film contributes to the high corrosion resistance of stainless steel, it also acts as a **"barrier that reduces adhesion"** during the plating process. If the processing conditions are not correct, it can lead directly to early peeling of the plating. In this instance, based on real examples of electroless nickel plating peeling, we will explain **"why did it peel off?" and "how can we prevent it?"** from the removal of the oxide film to the surface treatment (nickel strike). *Please note that such measures are just a small part of the initiatives that Bandai engages in daily. We invite you to see the value we can provide to our customers.*

• stainless

"Could you please do it as soon as possible, somehow?" Among the drawings that arrived, there was a particularly eye-catching part. The material was FCD450—meaning cast iron. The quantity was small, just 30 pieces, but the shape was complex, and the drawing date was ten years ago. Feeling a slight unease, I confirmed with the customer, and as expected— "Actually, the current processing company has lost the mold..." Normally, it would be unavoidable to have a long lead time to remake the mold. However, the drawing specified **±0.005 dimensional tolerance and Ra0.2 surface roughness**, and furthermore, that area was the "cylinder sliding part." In other words, it was a high-precision part that required honing. At Bandai, we replaced everything with cutting without using a mold, and by collaborating with a honing-specialized processing partner, we achieved the shortest possible lead time. Even without a mold, and even with strict precision— Our **"Hometown Processing Network" at Bandai** can respond to those "troubles." *Please note that this kind of response is just a small part of what Bandai does every day. We invite you to see the value we can provide to our customers.*

• Casting Machine