Knowing that productivity increases can substantially cut costs, the challenge becomes finding the best way to achieve productivity gains.
Fortunately for mold manufacturers today, tooling companies offer an unprecedented level of assistance. Many even have programs dedicated to helping their customers select the best tooling for specific applications.
When looking for such a partnership, there are two key areas to be considered.
1. Mold manufacturers should verify the expertise of a cutting tool supplier. It can quickly be determined if a representative of the company is truly an expert by asking detailed questions about the materials and machining processes applicable to a part. Also verify that the company will be easy to contact and readily available to help with any challenges that arise.
2. If confident that a cutting tool supplier will bring value to a partnership, a manufacturer should examine the details of that company’s relevant programs. Is the process invasive and how will it affect production? Will representatives from the cutting tool company be working directly with machine operators to ensure a smooth transition to new processes or tools? What types of documented results or reports will be provided on test cuts and newly implemented tools? All of these issues are worth inquiring about, as they play a vital role in making the partnership a success.
I think the sense of cooperation is important, mutual understanding, Maintain quality awareness and design standards as well as production standard consistency.