Fastems

The Fastems system offers us considerable advantages over conventional manufacturing processes in that it allows us to flexibly manage our production scheduling and process repeat orders faster. Benefits include:

• For repeat work there are a number of advantages of using R E Thompsons Fastems lines over more conventional machine shops.
• no repeat set-up charges - workholding and cutting tools stay set.
• no minimum run quantities.
• shorter lead-times.
• much reduced inventory.
• prove-out scrap on repeat batches eliminated.
• reduced inspection cost because the manufacturing process is effectively 'stored'.

1. One of two loading stations

2, Loading a raw billet, the Mori-Seiki NH5000 can be seen to the right

3. The raw material is loaded to the machine-tool via a robot on a rail

The backbone to the Fastems system is the Flexible Pallet Magazine (Linear Pallet Pool) which allows for multiple pallets to be set up in advance of machining operations. R E Thompson currently have two Mori Seiki NH5000 Fastems systems in place, each with paired NH5000 horizontal machining centers supported by 20 & 24 pallet systems, making a total of 4 NH5000 units with 44 pallets.

Built for the lean manufacturer, the new Mori Seiki NH5000 horizontal machining center is designed for stable running 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week allowing us to maximise productivity.

4. Once component is machined, the machine pallet is indexed back to the Fastems A.P.C. and the robot will transfer it to either a store position or to one of the load/unload stations

5. Robot at one of the load/unload stations

6. Another component being loaded

The Linear Pallet Pools are material handling systems each set up with two horizontal machining centers. An automatic guided vehicle (AGV) carries pallets among machining centers, setup stations, and pallet stands. After setting up a job for the first time, we can store it in the Linear Pallet Pool where we can recall it at any time. When we receive additional orders for parts, we simply schedule it and with zero setup time can complete the order. We can also run lights out by loading up the Linear Pallet Pool with blank parts.

7. Component being unloaded at load/unload station

8. Another component being loaded to a sub-plate for another machining operation

9. and aligned with location dowels

This latest investment has literally transformed our operation. We are now able to undertake much higher volume work as well as reduce our leads times. Because jobs can be stored in the Linear Pallet Pool repeat jobs completely skip the production engineering department and can go straight to the shop floor saving considerable time and allowing for far greater production flexibility.

10. Several different types of component can be loaded per pallet

Combining the Fastems system with the increased performance, reliability and accuracy of the Mori Seiki NH5000 machining centers we are truly placed to offer companies a first class service from now to well into the future.

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