INTERVIEW WITH DANIEL SIMMEN,
DEPUTY HEAD OF TOOLMAKING

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH KUHN RIKON?
Since May 2004.
 

WHAT IS YOUR TASK AREA?
I am responsible for the drawing and punching tools in Production. I maintain the tools so that the process runs smoothly when a product series is switched for the next one with the corresponding switch in equipment. I also produce new and replacement parts, work on projects with others and am the contact for a variety of queries in Production.
 

WHICH TOOLS ARE NEEDED FOR MANUFACTURING PANS?
Many operational steps are needed to take us from the round blank to the finished pan or lid. And many tools as well, each of which is important: drawing tools, punching tools, trimmers-shapers, bayonet bending presses, the round polishing table, just to mention a few.
 

FROM THE MANUFACTURING POINT OF VIEW – WHAT IS THE MOST DEMANDING KUHN RIKON PRODUCT?
From the production point of view the Duromatic pressure cooker is certainly the most demanding. Even the ordinary Duromatic Classic lid goes through seven work stations before it goes on to Polishing. Every tool must be accurately installed and set up so that the finished lid meets the demanding quality requirements and, together with its pan, fulfils its function as a pressure cooker.
 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WINTER DISH?
When the outside temperatures lie close to freezing, you can’t beat a cosy, fine fondue or raclette.
 

HAVE YOU GOT ANY NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS?
Not really. At least, not for New Year. I think that one should make resolutions or changes when they are due. You don’t need a set date for them.