When we imagine a smarter and leaner workplace, do we look at tooling and machinery? Adding automation and increasing productivity in your shop is key and can change your business. However, maintenance and consideration of your tooling are often overlooked.
It’s a good idea to look at the big picture when it comes to tooling. Think long term-what is the condition of your shop's tooling now? Where do you want it to be?
Implementing Lean Tooling
By buying equipment that can handle a broad range of tooling, you will be prepared for larger volumes of work and have a backup that will fit all of your tooling. Creating common mounting, shut-offs, and strokes will allow for efficiency.
Product design will also play a part in tooling efficiency. Components that fit a broad range of products reduce required tooling, and lower part inventories and die maintenance. Progressive dies will also reduce big-picture cost of material handling, setups, and individual die maintenance.
In summary, the above are some tips to encourage you to consider your tooling in a different light.