by Dianna Brodine, Plastics Business Conair's new SCADA-enabled ControlWorks system gives users the ability to look at more than one piece of equipment at a time and drill down as necessary to find information on individual machines. Process monitoring is a critical component of any successful injection molding job. Monitoring the molding machinery and the mold itself … [Read more...] about Monitoring Manufacturing Efficiency with Advanced Auxiliary Equipment
Process Improvement
Engaging in 5S
by Jen Clark, Plastics Business Since the 1990s, lean manufacturing has gained a foothold in companies across the US. This methodology provides companies with a means to deliver quality products on time and at least cost. There are several lean manufacturing initiatives, but one of the first business models that companies typically introduce is called 5S – a system designed to … [Read more...] about Engaging in 5S
Effective Inventory Management Adds to the Bottom Line
by Dianna Brodine, Plastics Business According to a presentation from a Grainger representative at the MAPP Annual Benchmarking & Best Practices Conference in October 2014, more than $110 billion in MRO (maintenance, repair and operating) supplies were purchased in 2013, ranging from light bulbs and cleaning supplies to maintenance parts. Unfortunately for the bottom … [Read more...] about Effective Inventory Management Adds to the Bottom Line
Embracing 2 Second Lean
by Brittany Willes, Plastics Business In his book, "2 Second Lean: How to Grow People and Build a Lean Culture," Akers discusses his conversion to lean manufacturing, highlighting several tactics he has used to encourage continuous improvement. He provides a quick "lean" summary of each chapter's main points and take-away ideas. Additionally, at the end of each chapter, … [Read more...] about Embracing 2 Second Lean
Designing the Perfect SMED Cart
by Dianna Brodine, Plastics Business MAPP Completes SMED Cart Contest While the contest is over, the opportunity to learn from the entrants has just begun. Too often, innovation is thought of as the invention of the next big app or a new category of mobile devices. However, MAPP knows that innovation often comes in "little" ways – small improvements suggested by employees … [Read more...] about Designing the Perfect SMED Cart