Simple Solutions That Work! Issue 8

AYAX RANGEL HA INTERNATIONAL, LLC ARTICLE TAKEAWAYS: 1. When materials, methods, machines, and EH&S are considered in the planning stage, the chances of a successful installation are higher. 2. Planning ahead, open communication channels, and getting to know the key factors is important. 3. Agreeing with customers on the required specifications and lab data will help to build on the confidence level. 4. Knowing how to balance the assets and capabilities. AN INTERESTING APPROACH TO THE PRODUCT INSTALLATION PROCESS 44 I always have believed that to successfully implement a new resin system in an existing or new customer, it is necessary to take into consideration four important factors: Materials, Methods, Manpower, and EH&S. The first three represent a three-sided equilateral triangle, which in turn is being supported by safe practices and products. If any of the sides of the triangle are unbalanced, the chances of carrying out a successful implementation could be compromised. Any substantial deficiency of any of the 3 M’s (Materials, Methods, Manpower), will require that the other two be challenged at a higher degree. For example, if a premium binder system is introduced to a core room, but the coremaking equipment is deficient, then, the binder system may not perform to its fullest, and the staffing may also have to be tested to make the system work on a consistent basis. On the other hand, if the foundry makes the effort to invest in state of the art equipment and binders, but the staffing is not properly trained or proficient on the new technology or materials, the foundry may not fully garnish the full competitive advantage the new investment in equipment and products. Be aware that this does not mean if new equipment, expensive materials, or costly training are not used, the implementation will not be successful. By applying this philosophy will you guarantee a successful implementation? Of course not. As in any other thing in life, the key of success resides on effectively balancing all the assets and capabilities on hand to maximize the outcome. In many ways a successful implementation is the result of achieving a sustainable degree of consistency in the coremaking or molding process as well as meeting process specifications established as a goal of the conversion. Below is a brief summary of an actual application of this philosophy. Months ago we received a request by a leading casting supplier for mining and construction equipment. The main objective for this company was to test and access new products that could help them to maintain their competitive edge. Of course, two of the main initial requirements were competitive pricing and compliance to specifications in their current process (curing speed, mechanical strengths, mold and casting scrap level, etc.).