by Ken Jenkins, Pleasant Precision, Inc. The economic downturn has U.S. manufacturing looking for ways to do more with less, pushing the limits of optimization, efficiency, and cost effectiveness. Never has the term "lean manufacturing" meant more than it does today. The mold-making process notoriously adds time to pre-production and can be very costly, especially for shorter … [Read more...] about Modular Molds Contribute to Lean Manufacturing Success
Molds/Tooling
Optimizing Mold Performance and Maintenance Efficiency
by Steve Johnson, Progressive Components Mold performance and maintenance efficiency are two completely different, yet entirely connected goals of the modern day mold repair shop. Mold performance has been an issue ever since the first part hung up in cavity, with maintenance efficiency or the approach used when repairing molds taking a back seat in terms of significance … [Read more...] about Optimizing Mold Performance and Maintenance Efficiency
Optimizing Mold Performance and Maintenance Efficiency: Part II
by Steven Johnson Website-Only Content Winter 2009 Previously, we discussed how each of these two elements is different, yet work hand in hand to impact the overall profitability of a molding company. We also discussed the first three steps (Clean-up and Organize, Stop the Bleeding, and Assess the Damage) of a six-step process and typical objectives to overcome. In … [Read more...] about Optimizing Mold Performance and Maintenance Efficiency: Part II
Finding the Right Moldmaker
Plastics Business It goes without saying that the finished plastic part is only as good as the mold. A molder can have the newest equipment, the best resin, and the most experienced operator, but if the mold is not manufactured correctly, problems most certainly can be expected. Choosing the right moldmaker often depends on the specifics of a molder's needs - every molder … [Read more...] about Finding the Right Moldmaker