Original Date: 05/12/1997
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

Previously, Cincinnati Milacron used a single test stand for its spindle carrier runoff operations. This manually- controlled operation required three hours to adjust speeds and verify temperatures for each spindle carrier tested, and eight hours for the test runoff including cool down cycles. Additionally, the operation relied on the technician’s skill and provided limited, difficult-to-read data in a tabular format. To improve its spindle carrier runoff operations, Cincinnati Milacron’s Machine Tool Group (MTG) changed the test stands (Figure 2-4).

The new stands can test two spindle carriers simultaneously during the runoff operations. Cincinnati Milacron also installed an automatic runoff cycle so operators can perform a wider variety of tests within the same timeframe and capture more data in a graphical format. The additional data is also being used for future design and technology development.

The new test stands have increased the efficiency of Cincinnati Milacron’s spindle carrier runoff operations, doubled the number of spindle carriers tested within a timeframe, and reduced manual input requirements for each test. Other benefits include consistent product quality with lower warranty returns from the customer, and problem-solving capabilities prior to releasing the carrier for final assembly.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.