Simple Solutions That Work! Issue 17

To begin core making, the RFID interrogator built into the core maker bench, reads the tag’s number, and transmits that information to the PLC. Then, the computer retrieves the settings for that core. The worker presses one more button to begin the core making process, and the core box is moved into the core blower. The computer instructs the blower accordingly and injects sand and chemicals before purging the box. For greater accuracy and savings, add RFID tags to your mold box to identify itself to the mixer. As the box flows past the RFID reader, the system reads the information on the tag and sends the information to the operating system. Both the tag and the radio are two-way radios. The reader interfaces with the PLC to transfer the data obtained from the tag to allow the PLC to set the mixer and conveyor/carousel parameters. Recipe numbers and settings are entered into the tag via a touch-screen on the mixer control panel or another PLC. This means programming can take place at the production line if needed. While a tag can be reprogrammed at any time, password protection can easily be added to ensure recipes are not altered. Especially in our current labor shortage market, the labor savings benefits of RFID are easily understood. However, RFID really manages your quality control system by ensuring the machine settings and the correct recipe are being used. Foundries using RFID report that their increase in quality castings has also naturally reduced their defects/scrap, which has allowed them to compete with reduced prices. They also report that a RFID system is simply more productive. Regarding today’s worker shortage, RFID helps there as well. While you will reduce overall labor with an RFID system, the worker that operates the system will become a higher skilled person that is more likely to grow with you. In summary, RFID tags can store a lot of information and are designed to be used in production, supply chain and inventory management. Eliminate human intervention that can result in errors by tagging your raw materials, parts, equipment, tools, and core and mold boxes to monitor real-time movement, for real-time savings. Contact: JACK PALMER jack@palmermfg.com SEE IT IN ACTION 16