Machine Tool Case Studies

27/07/2010

Open Mind CAM Software - JK Engineering

When John Kenny left his job to start JK Engineering Ltd in 2001, the philosophy was to acquire the
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26/07/2010

Mikron 5 axis Machining Centre - Midland Precision Engineering

The catalyst behind MPE’s investment in the HSM 600U ProdMod machine was the Company’s successful
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20/07/2010

Mazak Quick Turn Nexus CNC Lathes - Williams & Co Ltd

“We have invested heavily in manufacturing systems and machine tool capacity to bring the business..
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19/07/2010

Wire and Spark erosion Machine Tools from Agie - Camcraft Ltd

The 3 machine tools replace older, less sophisticated EDM technology that Camcraft had at its
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Precision Engineers saves one fifth of tooling costs thanks to new tooling solutions

Story added 02 March 2010.

A company-wide audit and a programme of process optimisation by applications engineers from West Country Tools and Iscar, has helped saved precision engineering sub contractor Metaltech Precision one fifth of their tooling costs, this has resulted in an annual saving of around twenty five thousand pounds.

After the installation of two computer controlled Iscar Matrix Tool stores coupled with programme rationalisation, Metal Tech Precision have seen a cut in the types of tools used from 400 to 250 demonstrating immediate savings. Productivity has also increased due to more appropriate tool selection and the use of Iscar SumoTec grades, which are also delivering faster cycle times.

Furthemore with the Iscar Matrix system, if unsuitable inserts for tools are opened from packets, Metal Tech can return them to the supplier without incurring costs to the business.

To highlight the impact of these changes Metaltech's owner, Steve Hill gets a report sent to his mobile phone on the first of every month, it contains detailed data including itemised information on the number and type of inserts removed from the Matrix stores during the month and by whom, the cost of each type of insert used, the cost of all inserts taken out by each employee and the grand total for the month.

'Operators have really started to think about what they are taking out of the stores, now that they are visibly accountable. Gone are the days when someone would select an inappropriate tip for a job or take a few extras in case the inserts run out during a shift. With the new system, everyone knows that items will always be there when they need them.' says Steve Larcombe.

Metaltech continue to remain competitive thanks to new initiatives in an increasingly competitive international precision engineering subcontracting sector, Tool vending systems are just one effective way of monitoring both usage and costs.



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