PDF EN - Tornos

machines with additional equipment if required.
As far as possible, we keep certain types of part to
certain machines to avoid, for example, removing a
piece of apparatus from one machine just to refit it
directly on another. This planning aspect is therefore
equally important.
dm : If each operator is responsible from A to Z,
how are experiences shared
Mr. Steffen : There are two approaches ; firstly,
we promote dialogue within the company, and it is
quite common for the bar turners to exchange ideas
amongst themselves. Secondly, everything is documented
and centralised. We therefore have a knowledge
base which allows us to fall back on the experience
of all our operators. Also, we are certified,
so the traceability of all our operations is ensured.
Therefore, there is nothing simpler than monitoring
a part or finding a handy set-up tip for a particular
part.
dm : You carry out the assembly ; is that still
the same skill Is it possible for this to be easily
integrated
Mr. Maruccia : It is still a case of manufacturing
small, precise parts. As for machining operations in
the strictest sense, we offer our customers a complete
service. This diversification was within our
field of competence, so we started to offer it. We
are increasingly being asked for finished, assembled
products. For our customers, it represents a significant
simplification in the flow of procurements and
therefore, a reduction in the lead times. We are not
spreading ourselves too thin, we are simply offering
an additional service which adds value to the product.
Mr. Steffen : This way of working also allows us
to simplify the stages via a continuous dialogue
between production and assembly. If an additional
thickness is required in an area for special technical
reasons, the machining department is immediately
informed and our efficiency is bolstered.
dm : Returning to the prototype cell, how does
it work
Mr. Steffen : The manager is autonomous and is
positioned outside of the company’s normal workflow.
He has a 9-axis DECO 10 machine which can
be fitted with all kinds of apparatus. He is constantly
inventing new machining methods. If there is no prototype
to create, he works to develop new machining
solutions to bolster our productivity. Thanks to
this R&D role, we have been able, for example, to
offer innovative part engraving solutions to our customers.
02 / 09 decomagazine 33