Multislide vs. Fourslide: Choosing the Right Metal Forming Technology for Complex Parts

Multislide offers unmatched flexibility, repeatability, and efficiency for high-volume, complex metal part manufacturing

16/07/2025

How do Multislide and Fourslide technologies compare when manufacturing high-precision metal parts?

In the world of precision metal forming, the choice between Multislide and Fourslide technology is critical—especially when high volumes, intricate geometries, and tight tolerances are involved. Both methods utilize slide-based forming, but their performance and cost efficiency differ significantly.

At RPK Group, we specialize in the manufacture of complex and micro metal components using advanced Multislide systems, including Bihler equipment. Our commitment to quality, precision, and productivity drives our investment in the most capable technology for demanding industrial applications.

Understanding the Basics: Fourslide vs. Multislide

FEATURE / CAPABILITY	FOURSLIDE	MULTISLIDE
NUMBER OF SLIDES	4	Up to 8+2
COMPLEXITY OF PARTS	Low	High
SPEED	Low (60 pcs/min)	High (300 pcs/min)
TOOLING COST	Lower upfront	More complex tooling, but better long-term ROI
SETUP TIME	Relatively short with simple tooling	Short with trained operators
ADAPTABILITY	Simple radial concept. Limited to 4-slide movements	Radial & Linear concept Servo-driven, programmable, highly adaptable
LEARNING CURVE	Requires experienced old-school setters	Easier to train new generation
PRODUCTION FLEXIBILITY	Moderate	Modular concept easier to adapt to product families

Why Multislide Wins for Complex, High-Volume Applications

Multislide technology outperforms Fourslide in terms of high-precision, high-volume manufacturing of complex geometries. With more than four programmable slides and modern servo-driven motion, Multislide machines provide unmatched flexibility, speed, and accuracy.

This makes them ideal for:

Producing highly complex components
Reducing material waste (up to 31% less than traditional stamping)
Handling diverse part geometries with minimal changeover
Achieving repeatability and process stability for millions of units

At RPK Group, we combine engineering expertise with advanced Multislide machines to manufacture parts that meet demanding tolerances and stringent quality requirements—while keeping costs competitive.

Multislide Advantages for Engineering and Purchasing Teams

For engineers:

Greater design freedom for intricate part geometries
Fewer secondary operations thanks to in-line forming precision
Ability to scale efficiently to high production volumes

For procurement and operations:

Lower total cost of ownership compared to stamping or Fourslide
Reduced lead times due to in-house tooling and faster setups
Versatile tooling setups that can accommodate part variations and updates

Conclusion: When Precision and Complexity Matter, Go Multislide

While Fourslide may offer a quicker and cheaper entry for simpler parts, its limitations in terms of complexity and long-term flexibility make it less suitable for today’s advanced manufacturing demands.

Multislide, on the other hand, delivers best-in-class results when the stakes are high: high volume, high precision, and high complexity.

At RPK Group, we help our customers stay ahead with customized metal forming solutions built on the strength of Multislide technology.

Need help choosing the right forming solution for your next project? Let our experts guide you.