Developing a Successful Production Line
Developing a successful production line isn’t difficult. All you need is a little planning and the right tools.
In the past 200 years, manufacturing productivity has increased by leaps and bounds with advancements in technologies and automation, making the sky the limit when it comes to production design ideas.
Manufacturers need to plan before implementing or upgrading a production line, and keep in mind elements that will not only serve the company but that will also favor the end product and user.
Read on to discover the steps you should take in order to develop a successful production line.
AUTOMATION IS KEY
Automating is a key factor in implementing a successful production line. And it’s nothing new. Did you know Henry Ford installed the first assembly line in 1913? He was able to reduce the production time for one of his cars from 12 hours to an hour and a half.
Not only does automation improve your manufacturing process, but it also increases revenue while cutting waste from production as well as overhead costs.
NRTC Automation produces pre-engineered and customized work cells, that are the ultimate turnkey solution. Our work cells include specialized robotic systems that cover your manufacturing needs from top to bottom.
Adding elements like robotic arms to your production line can increase productivity and improve product quality. Additionally, they keep costs low and reduce the risk factors in dangerous or demanding environments.
DEVELOPING AND IMPLEMENTING A MAINTENANCE PLAN
Ensuring a production line stays successful can hinge on its maintenance plan. Production lines consist of a variety of elements, and each one will have its own set of maintenance requirements. Developing and implementing a preventative maintenance plan will protect equipment from failing or breaking down.
Starting with a predictive plan, and not a reactive approach, will ensure less downtime for your production line. A recent GE study found that only 24% of operators described their maintenance approach as “predictive” resulting in a 5.42% annual unplanned downtime vs 8.43% for those adopting a “reactive approach”.
Routine maintenance should include replacing old or worn parts, cleaning out and changing old grease, replacing filters, refreshing paint jobs, and replacing batteries. Keeping maintenance tasks like these on a schedule allows your equipment to work as efficiently as possible, saving you downtime as well as money from purchasing new equipment.
NRTC offers industrial refurbishment services, from basic evaluations to complete overhauls. We can help extend the life of your robots and production line and return their functionality to the highest caliber.
LEAN MANUFACTURING METHODOLOGY
Lean manufacturing is one of the most effective ways to make sure your production line is in the best shape possible. Keeping a lean methodology aims at reducing waste to improve the efficiency of production. Less waste equals less energy.
There are many different methodologies you can implement, such as 3P, Six Sigma, and Kaizen. Learn more about these methods on the NRTC Automation glossary page.
Start your Successful Production Line Today
Efficiency is fundamental to success in today’s market, and NRTC Automation can help you get there. We are dedicated to providing industrial and manufacturing solutions to all of our customers, big or small. From automation solutions and turnkey weld cells, to robot refurbishing and engineering contract services, we have you covered.
Contact us for a free quote and see how we can help you develop a successful production line.