1. Prioritize Fittings List
   1. Instead of importing with the .PNL file; Use the “Edit Parts List” and set the priority settings. Keep them in clusters (i.e. have fittings 1-3 as priory 1, next 2-6 priority 2, so on and so forth). Then auto nest.

1. Use Different Nesting Strategies
   1. Don’t just use the auto nest (green button) for the best utilization. Use the yellow auto nest button right next to it. Try different strategies and compare the performance.

1. Use Tip 1 & 2 In Conjunction With Each Other.

1. Leave the Computer
   1. Leave the computer while it is performing nesting calculations. Go do other value-added work.

1. Minimize Part Removal Labor
   1. Move pieces nested with a “score cut” along the boards edge to the very edge thus utilizing the board edge.

1. Use Scrap and Nest From Previous Jobs
   1. Using the “Reports” feature to identify all the pieces of the last nest. Save all the pieces from the last sheet of the job (assuming it’s a partial nest) and re-nest it at the beginning of the next job – before importing the new job. Import and using the yellow auto-nest button menu. On the “begin nesting on” drop down menu select "First Nest". This will start the current job nesting on the waste from the last job.

Tiger closures are great for the assembling of KoolDuct and allow you not to use the glue. The problem is its almost impossible to bend the tiger closure in a true 90 degree angle. To combat this, bend the tiger as normal then use a dead blow hammer to set the closure. Doing so will bend the tiger over 90 degrees. The duct will be more robust and considerably squarer. Also, the tape will cover the tiger flawlessly.

Let me introduce myself; I am David W. Mueller Chief Operations Officer here at GoMech, Ltd. For you new to this blog, we are a provider of infrastructure for the construction of insulated foam panels. These panels are sold under name such as KoolDuct, P3 and PIR.

As with many companies, we have a mission statement that outlines our purpose for existence. Our mission statement reads as follows, “Partner with our colleagues in meeting the demand for insulated foam panel products in the HVAC industry.” In the spirit of our mission, I have initiated this blog to provide an exchange of information.

The background for this blog stems from all the information, or lack there of, surrounding insulated foam panels. What does exist is hearsay or, if you are lucky, information contained solely in the minds of experts but not traceable. That is, it’s anecdotal (not backed by empirical evidence) and not public domain. As with any poker hand every hands a winner and every hand maybe a loser. When using you are using IFP’s you are dealt a winning hand. This blog should be the information center of preserving your winning hand.

The vision for this blog is to amass a collection of IFP information, tools and best practices in relation to the use of insulated foam panels. We at GoMech want you, our partners in meeting the need for insulated foam panels, to help us construct a body of knowledge on topics surrounding IFP.