Blog

Remember that Jurassic Park character, Nedry, who built an IT system no one else could manage? Joe Ventimiglio discusses how machine builders can avoid this mess by not trying to scratch-build a data-driven quality assurance system for a customer.

Machine builders are always struggling to stay on budget, on schedule and on spec with their manufacturer customers. Joe Ventimiglio discusses how incorporating the data-driven quality management of Industry 4.0 into their builds can save them a lot of grief.

We give a primer on how comprehensive data collection from across the plant floor, coupled with digital process signature analysis, can achieve the sometimes contradictory goals of reduced production costs and improved quality.

Does it make more sense to improve the overall yield of a line, or work to reduce scrap and rework rates to boost first-time yield? We crunch some numbers and illustrate the difference that digital process signature analysis can make.

Patrick Chabot argues why repair bay operations must be viewed as much more than a reactive function, with technicians waiting to address individual problems as they arise. Industry 4.0 demands a more proactive and holistic approach.

Leak testing is a quality assurance process notorious for reliability and repeatability challenges. Steve White discusses how and why Sciemetric includes a self-test function as part of its 3520 Leak Test System, to quickly diagnose any issues that may compromise reliability.

Ron Pawulski explores how poor control of test pressure is one of the most common causes of repeatability issues with leak testing. The answer? Digital smart sensors and software that constantly monitor and adjust to compensate for any variations.

Collecting data isn’t the same as making effective and timely use of the data. Rob Plumridge discusses how manufacturers must invest in robust data management and analytics tools if they expect to achieve measurable gains in production quality and output.

Ron Pawulski offers a checklist of what to consider when choosing a leak test system – your acceptable level of Gage R&R (repeatability and reproducibility), the required test cycle time for your line, and the need for traceability and root cause analysis.

When you’re in the market for a new leak test system, it’s a purchase decision that could be worth hundreds of thousands, even millions, of dollars to your plant. Rob Plumridge discusses the best approach to ensure a wise choice … and your job security.