When it comes to manufacturing precision parts and devices, unexpected downtime can cut into your deadlines and budgets. As a CNC manufacturing partner, GMI of Franklin, Indiana, works to avoid these downtime setbacks, which often can lead to lost revenue and increased costs. We have invested countless resources in our equipment, our employees, and the necessary certifications to keep production running smoothly and accurately. Take a peek behind the scenes to find out how GMI keeps downtime to a minimum.
Common reasons for downtime
While some periods of downtime are planned for scheduled maintenance, shift changes, or regular business hours, other instances can occur without notice.GMI has preventative measures in place to avoid these unwelcome surprises, but we’re also aware that things can happen with little warning:
- Machine breakdowns: Mechanical failures, electrical issues, and hydraulic problems can lead to unexpected machine downtime.
- Tool wear and breakage: Worn or broken tools can cause poor part quality, machine damage, and production interruptions.
- Programming errors: Incorrect programming can result in scrapped parts, machine errors, and wasted time.
- Material handling issues: Inefficient material handling processes can cause delays and bottlenecks.
- Operator error: Human error, such as incorrect setup or operation, can contribute to downtime.
Preventive measures to minimize downtime
As mentioned above, GMI has a comprehensive plan in place to minimize downtime and ensure that products are manufactured on or ahead of schedule. Our 99+% on-time delivery record is testimony to that commitment. This commitment starts with our employee owners, who are invested in the company as part of our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP.) Employees at each level of the organization are responsible for contributing to the improvement of the quality system and are empowered and trained as front-line inspectors in each phase of the manufacturing process.
GMI has also instituted several preventative measures aimed at avoiding or minimizing unplanned downtime:
- Regular maintenance: GMI adheres to a comprehensive maintenance schedule that includes preventive maintenance, predictive maintenance, and corrective maintenance. This helps identify and address potential issues before they lead to breakdowns.
- Proper tool management: The right tools can’t make a difference if they can’t be located or used efficiently. GMI’s tool management system tracks tool usage, conditions, and replacement schedules. This helps prevent tool-related downtime and ensure that the right tools are available when needed.
- Quality programming: CNC machines are nothing without the magic of programming. Skilled professionals translate designs into the digital language known as G-code. This code instructs the machine on the precise movements of the cutting tool, ensuring the final product matches the designer’s vision. GMI machinists receive extensive training and certification to ensure quality programming and minimal downtime.
- Efficient material handling: Before we start to manufacture a product, the GMI team will review material handling to minimize delays and bottlenecks. By relying on automation and lean manufacturing principles, our team works to improve material flow and reduce the risk of human error.
- Emergency preparedness: If the past months in the U.S. have taught us anything, it’s that you can’t control certain emergency situations. Instead, GMI has a plan for handling unexpected emergencies such as power outages or natural disasters. We hope we never need to use this plan, but it’s in place and ready to help us stay on schedule in the face of an emergency.
- Data analysis: We’re proud of that 97+% on-time delivery statistic, but that doesn’t mean we’re sitting around patting ourselves on the back. Instead, GMI relies on data analytics to identify trends and patterns in downtime data. This information is used to pinpoint the root causes of downtime and implement targeted preventive measures.
When you’re looking for a CNC manufacturing partner, you’re looking for someone who is committed to reducing downtime and avoiding unnecessary delays. GMI can help you significantly reduce unexpected downtime in your CNC manufacturing operations, improving your overall productivity, cost-efficiencies and competitiveness in the marketplace. How can we help you bring your precision product to fruition? Reach out now at 317-736-5116 or online at https://gmicorp.com/contact/ to start the conversation.
