Operate a Machine Shop Efficiently

Managing a machine shop comes with challenges. Manufacturing industries need to deal with the non-stop innovation of machines, conduct quality assurance, and maintain a healthy workplace for all its manpower. Nothing comes easy for the management – from identifying the proper machine needed for the production, selecting the best brand to achieve both quality, cost-saving, and time bound production, prioritizing updated information-drive, to integrating an effective system that is beneficial for the company and its employees.

There is no proper manual that can assure that a shop could operate smoothly. Non-stop challenges will come and go on any form of business. However, if you take note of these four (4) tips, you can predict and prepare for challenges that may arise:

Tip 1: Machine – Purpose and End Work pieces

Depending on the manufacturer’s industry, it is important that you identify the product that you plan to produce in order to properly select which machines you would employ in your day-to-day operation. There are factors that you need to consider when choosing a machine. The materials that the production will be using, the expected timeline to deliver the volume, the volume, and the workpiece design should be prioritized. Note that there are various types of CNC machines that are great for maneuvering complex and intricate designs that result in highly precise, accurate, and tolerant parts; by identifying its purpose, you can easily decide which machines to purchase. You should also consider whether you are crafting prototypes or mass-producing a certain product since this could also determine which CNC machine could fit best with your company’s operations.

Tip 2: CNC Machine – Invest and maintain

When selecting a CNC machine for your production, it is important that you conduct research as to which is highly recommended by reputed manufacturing industries. Check if this applies to your operation and remember to consider the factors listed on the previous section. After you have identified your preferred CNC machine, choose a brand that is both durable and cost-efficient.
Maintaining a machine’s health should also be prioritized since your operation is highly dependent on it. Be proactive in maintaining your machine – Initiate a preventive maintenance program. It is recommended that machine lubricants are one of the key factors that can provide the best protection in lengthening the machine’s lifespan and could reduce unpredictable outages. In the long run, investing and maintaining your machines can affect the business’ productivity.

Tip 3: Manpower Skills – Educate and collaborate

Working with machines requires knowledge and skills. The person operating the machines used in the production should be knowledgeable on the procedures to avoid operational loss and workplace hazard. Investing on your operators’ knowledge should also be considered. Train them and keep them informed with the latest trends on the CNC machines that the company uses and the current trends in your industry. The company should also collaborate with its employees and ask feedback and recommendations on how they can further improve the production. The experience that these employees have in the daily operation is considered the best for honing skills – knowledge is power, but skill is gold.

Tip 4: Organizational System – Organize and Integrate

Implement a system that works and complements your organization’s operational goals. This is to ensure that the production is organized and remains productive in the height of the production demand. Evaluate your workflow and delegate tasks – the workspace should remain clutter-free to avoid accidents that could hamper the production. The tools needed by the operators, if there are any, should be accessible and organized. If needed, remodel/redesign the arrangement of your workspace. Ask your employees for suggestions on what works for them and what arrangement is convenient. Communication should not be one-way. Ask your employees and integrate their suggestions in your company’s organizational system.

It is important to note that every organization has its own culture. There is no absolute manual that could teach you success. By acknowledging these factors and considering them when making your decisions will surely give you an edge. If you’re interested in buying a used CNC Machine, contact us at S&M Machinery, the leading independent machinery dealer of late-model surplus used CNC Industrial machine tools in the United States. Look through our extensive inventory of used CNC Machines and contact us today, we’ll help you find the right machine that’s perfect for your business.