Introduction
A global leader in engineered fastening solutions sought a new clip manufacturing solution due to concerns about their aging workforce. With many employees approaching retirement, they were worried about losing valuable expertise and needed a machine solution that new employees could easily learn and operate.
Challenge
Not only was this company looking for a new machine that was easy to operate, but also one with increased output, enhanced efficiency, and improved quality. Additionally, they aimed to reduce the machine’s footprint, tooling maintenance, direct labor, manufacturing, resource, and service costs.
Solution
Bihler’s 4Slide NC machine was the selected as it could accomodate all of the company’s requirements. Bihler’s new Servo Technology was able to give them higher output and enabling the upgrade of their tooling to carbide punches, which was not available on their previous machines. Thirteen 4Slide NC machines were installed to replace 72 Baird machines giving them back room on their production floor and saving on a variety of costs.
Conclusion
Bihler’s 4Slide NC machine delivered significant advances for all performance measurements of the company:
- 500% reduction in machine count
- 500% increase in productivity per machine
- 365% Increased productivity per operator
- 1000% decrease in setup time/day
- 600% decrease in tool room maintenance costs
- Part quality up to 1.7Cpk vs 0.9
The initial investment in the new machines more than justified itself through their enhanced performance and reduced costs.
