2018 was the year we began working with 4.0 technology by introducing the Mazak SQT200MY turning center with an Iemca bar loader. The data exchange between machine and office allowed us, for the first time, to assess production efficiency, check if parts are produced within estimated times, monitor series production, and gather machine downtime statistics.
Since then, thanks also to the tax incentives we were able to benefit from, seven out of eight machines now incorporate this technology, paving the way for our new project: the digitization of the production process.
Digitization of the production process
On January 1, 2024, the company officially upgraded its system related to the production process: everything that was previously on paper is now digital.
In order to comply with ISO-9001 procedures, we previously printed the design and a form to record all data, ensuring that all information about the produced part could be systematically traced (e.g., raw material used, operators involved, production time, dimensional checks, etc.). Additionally, the design and setup form were printed each time a new part was produced.
Today, however, the job order is sent from the office via dedicated software, and all information is digitally recorded by the operators involved in the various stages of the part’s transformation.
Each workstation is equipped with a 45" HD monitor, a mini PC, keyboard and mouse, and a tablet, with each operator having their own access code. To secure and protect data, a backup is performed daily on the NAS.
The development, carried out in collaboration with a specialized company, took one year, followed by another year to create two prototype stations for testing and refining.
It is worth highlighting both the financial effort required (proportionate to the company’s size) and the commitment needed to achieve the desired result. We can now proudly say that few subcontractors possess such technology, enabling us to operate a more modern and sustainable workshop.
