Home > Resources > Articles > How to Improve Production Scheduling: The 5 Crucial Elements

How to Improve Production Scheduling: The 5 Crucial Elements

Bhagyashri Kambale | December 08, 2021 | 679 views
HOW TO IMPROVE PRODUCTION SCHEDULING
The manufacturing production schedule is a critical aspect that enables the manufacturing business to complete each production activity precisely and on time. Allocating different raw materials, resources, or processes to distinct project phases is called a production schedule. Its goal is to make your manufacturing process as efficient and cost-effective as possible in terms of resources and labor — all while delivering products on schedule.

As technology takes over and enhances many of the processes we used to handle with manual labor, we are freed up to use our minds creatively, which leads to bigger and better leaps in innovation and productivity."

– Matt Mong, VP Market Innovation and Project Business Evangelist at Adeaca

So, how is the overall production schedule managed?
According to businesswire, the global APS (Advanced Production Planning and Scheduling) software market was valued at $1,491.22 million in 2020 and is anticipated to raise $2,941.27 million by 2028 expanding at an 8.86 percent CAGR from 2020 to 2028.

Some software and tools are available to assist manufacturing organizations in properly scheduling production planning, including MaxScheduler, TACTIC, MRPeasy, and Gantt charts. Though there are numerous software programs available on the market for production scheduling, the most crucial aspect is determining which elements to consider when planning production.
This blog will look at the five most important factors to consider while planning the production schedule.

Five Elements to Consider When Scheduling Production

As we saw in the introduction, production scheduling is used in the manufacturing process to assign plant and machinery resources, schedule human resources, plan production processes, and purchase materials.

So, what are the primary components or stages of this production scheduling process? Let's take a quick look at each of them.


Planning to Make the Best Use of the Company's Resources

The role of planning in production scheduling is to use the company's resources to maintain a regular production flow. As a result, downtime is decreased, and bottlenecks are minimized, allowing production to be optimized. For production scheduling, two forms of planning can be used:

Dynamic Planning: Dynamic planning is carried out under the idea that process stages will alter. So, materials must be ready, but production cannot begin until demand is decided.
Static Planning: Static planning is done keeping in mind that all process steps will be completed on schedule and without adjustments.

Routing to Determine the Order of Actions

A “bill of materials” is used in discrete manufacturing to specify what things are needed and in what quantities.
Routing determines the path and sequence of required phases of the process. It may involve in-house operations, but it may also comprise sub-contracted components that must be returned to the production flow for final assembly.

Scheduling to Make Use of Predetermined Planning Levels

To manufacture products from components or raw materials, scheduling makes use of the previously set planning level. As a result, it is time-dependent and must meet the demand outlined at the planning level.
Each department, product, and procedure can have their own unique set of timetables. Sub-schedules for sub-assemblies or mixes and blends may be defined by department-specific master production schedules, utilized at the highest level to define product timeframes.

Dispatching to Decide on Immediate Actions

Dispatching assigns the following jobs to be done from a subset of the production queue. Dispatching is utilized to make quick decisions. This is in contrast to planning, which involves the planning of future actions. Dispatching is utilized in both pull and push production systems.

Execution to Ensure that all Processes are Carried out Correctly

Production scheduling must rely on proper execution to ensure that all processes are completed appropriately and in the sequence planned.

It requires everyone to know what they are expected to do and when they are expected to do it. Execution requires knowledgeable management decisions, well-trained employees, correct data in the manufacturing plan and schedule, and consistent sales statistics and forecast numbers. All must be present for the organization to carry out its production plan and fulfill orders.

How MRPeasy – A Production Scheduling Software Assist Manufacturing Companies in Scheduling Their Production?

MRPeasy is a cloud-based material requirements planning (MRP) application explicitly designed for small manufacturing units. Its primary functions are purchase order management, forecasting, and inventory management.

This software simplifies the process of scheduling production. It enables you to evaluate all of your anticipated manufacturing orders (MO). The bill of materials (BOM), purchasing, and stocking are all maintained in one location, allowing you to quickly book inventory and increase purchase orders (PO) for acquired parts.
MRPeasy enables you to:

  • Obtain all of the detailed information on all of your MOs
  • Consider MOs as a single block or as distinct operations.
  • Drag-and-drop operations and operations to reschedule
  • Calendar or Gantt chart views are available for monitoring scheduled orders.

Additionally, you can manage MOs smoothly. With the production planning component, you may create, amend, and update MOs. This app compiles an exhaustive list of all your MOs. You can track their progress based on the status of an order or a part's availability. Additionally, you can search for, filter, and export your MOs.

Final Words

How to schedule production for your organization requires extensive research, planning, and analysis of overall product demand as well as a grasp of the time required to meet the demand. Production scheduling techniques such as job-based planning, batch method, flow method, and others help develop a productive manufacturing production schedule. Include the elements mentioned above in your manufacturing scheduling to get the best possible benefits, such as better production efficiency, lower production costs, and on-time product delivery for your manufacturing in 2022. 

FAQ


How production planning differ from production scheduler?

Production planning and scheduling are often mixed. But there is a difference. Planning decides what and how much work must be done, whereas scheduling specifies who and when the work will be done.

What is real-time manufacturing scheduling?

Real-Time Scheduling is a production planning, scheduling, and tracking tool that enables manufacturing organizations to improve customer satisfaction and achieve optimal operational performance cost-effectively.

How can scheduling be improved?

Communication with staff is a great way to improve scheduling. This is true for all businesses, software or otherwise. However, management should not burden employees with ambiguous or unclear communication, and vice versa.

Spotlight

SCHUNK

SCHUNK GmbH & Co. KG of Lauffen/Neckar is a German family-owned company and global player in one. The company was founded in 1945 by Friedrich Schunk as a mechanical workshop and has developed under the leadership of Heinz-Dieter Schunk to a competence and world market leader for gripping systems and clamping technology.

OTHER ARTICLES
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,OPERATIONS

Size, Scope, and Forecast of the Air Cannon System Market

Article | July 11, 2022

During the forecast period of 2022-2029, the Air Cannon System market size is expected to develop revenue and exponential market growth at a remarkable CAGR. The market's expansion can be attributed to rising demand for Air Cannon System in construction, industrial, mining, and other applications on a global scale. At the country level, the report provides insights into the lucrative opportunities in the Air Cannon System Market. The report also includes a precise cost, segment, trend, region, and commercial development of the major key players worldwide for the projected period. The comprehensive report on the Air Cannon System Market will analyse data changes and their global market impact. It also examines the overall growth of companies in the market as well as their ability to manage and control profit levels, which is critical for any investor looking to open and expand a business in the same market. The report aims to provide investors with an accurate prediction of market development over time by providing a detailed analysis of current trends and key changes that serve as a framework for the company to calculate market growth potential in the near future. The report also tracks and records significant events such as business combinations, joint initiatives, accomplishments, new product developments, or market activities. The main purpose is to provide a growth map from which the benefits can be calculated. It includes Porter's Five Forces analysis, which explains the five forces: customer bargaining power, distributor bargaining power, the threat of substitute products, and the degree of competition in the Air Cannon System market, as well as a market overview, which includes market dynamics. It describes the various market ecosystem players, such as system integrators, middlemen, and end users. Another major topic covered in the report is the competitive environment of the Air Cannon System market. The research also provides in-depth details about the COVID-19 scenario and its impact on the market to help with decision-making.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING

Factors Explaining Why American Manufacturing Is Growing

Article | July 11, 2022

Even though Silicon Valley has built its reputation on innovation, it is believed that it has lost its edge. Business entrepreneurs were encouraged to focus on gleaming venture capitalists, to sell bigger dreams to the most popular technology. The future of the American manufacturing industry is predicted to have more growth than the past two decades, and here are the reasons why: Excluding the Middleman: From ancient times, manufacturers sold through retailers who acted as middlemen in the distribution process, but with the upgradation of the industry, manufacturers can now directly connect to the consumers and the government. Rising Demand for US Made Products: The US population leans more towards products that are made in America. Hence, the manufacturers make extra efforts to produce high quality premium products for their customers. Customer Loyalty and Support: Customers love to connect with the brand and understand the brand’s struggle to manufacture and create excellent products. Engaging customers in the journey will help manufacturers gain insights and feedback, and improvise accordingly. People today are more keen towards seeing improvements sooner, and it has become much easier to hear from customers, iterate, fail, pivot, and improve quickly. Conscientious Capitalism’s Rise: When you take into account the carbon cost of transportation imports, there is another clear advantage to the growth of domestic production. Important financial advisors are also raising this alarm. For instance, the polypropylene required for the majority of PPE is manufactured in the U.S., transported to China, used to make masks, and then returned. Additionally, since at least 18% of air pollution is caused by ocean freight, domestic product manufacturing may benefit both the environment and consumer demand. Energy Costs: The cost of energy consumption in the United States is declining, which is crucial when competing with foreign companies. For the first time in modern history, domestic production has a strategic advantage because electricity is the second-highest cost after labor. Automation: The strategic advantage of cheap labour possessed by international competitors is eliminated by the growth of automation. Over the next ten years, robotic automation is expected to challenge enterprises that have relied on cheap labour as a competitive advantage, paving the way for a revival of American manufacturing.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,INDUSTRIAL DATA

The Top 8 Latest Trends in Manufacturing and Engineering for 2022

Article | July 8, 2022

Manufacturers are constantly striving to overcome challenges, improve processes, and identify efficiencies, and the manufacturing trends we predict for 2022 will all serve to further these objectives. As with any new year, technological advances, market needs, and business objectives will drive manufacturing industry trends. Looking ahead to the rest of 2022, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have an impact on manufacturing, implying that some 2021 trends will carry over — but there will be new challenges and opportunities. From business agility to worker safety and the realities of adapting to what may be a "new normal," the manufacturing trends in 2022 will be a response to the unique challenges of recent years in many ways. The continuous advancement of technology, connectivity, and automation is poised to solve problems while also presenting unprecedented opportunities. Let’s understand the trends in manufacturing and engineering in 2022: 2022 will be the year of smart factories Greater emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality Supply chain re-evaluation The permanent importance of reshoring Employee safety and health Data-driven maintenance as a margin booster Growing reliance on virtual processes Increasing demand with a reduced labor force ATS, as a technology-driven maintenance company, can assist you with your challenges and goals for 2022 and beyond, allowing you to lead your operations into the next decade. Contact ATS today for more information.

Read More
SMART FACTORY,INDUSTRIAL 4.0

Smart Manufacturing with IoT & Industry 4.0

Article | July 8, 2022

Industry 4.0 is a new phase of the Industrial Revolution that emphasizes interconnectivity, automation, machine learning, and real-time data. Industry 4.0 and IIoT combine physical production with smart digital technology to create a holistic and better connected ecosystem for manufacturing and supply chain management. Industry 4.0 is about revolutionizing the way your entire business operates and grows by investing in new technology and tools to improve manufacturing efficiency. In most cases, businesses are deploying iIoT devices and machinery linked by communication technologies to help industries collect, monitor, analyze, and deliver valuable insights. The specifics of how this technology is used vary from company to company, but the goal is always the same: to improve operational efficiency through analytics, automation, and connectivity. For example, The manufacturing sector is already undergoing a revolution. According to an IDC report, the sector spent $178 billion on the iIoT in 2016. Also, as per MarketWatch, iIoT investment in the manufacturing sector will grow at a CAGR of 29.68% until 2020. Amazon paid $775 million for the robotics company Kiva in 2012. It crosses our mind: why such a big investment? It made more sense for them to use robots to locate products and deliver them to their workers than for their workers to find the products themselves. Smart Manufacturing Use Cases: Industry 4.0 technology is being implemented by a North American tool manufacturer in order to improve efficiencies and productivity in its global manufacturing operations. Caterpillar recently collaborated with industrial analytics firm Uptake to develop technologies that will assist their customers in monitoring the health of their equipment. They used a variety of IoT and augmented reality technologies to provide machine operators with an instant view of vitals such as fuel levels and when the air filter needs to be replaced. When an air filter needs to be replaced, the technology sends detailed instructions to the machine operator. Siemens' factory in Amberg, Germany, personifies the company's passion for technological innovation. The plant was created as part of a collaboration with the German government to create a series of fully automated smart factories. The plant itself manufactures parts for BMW and is said to be approximately 75% automated. The purpose of going over these use cases is to help you imagine and consider how smart manufacturing could be integrated into your own organization.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,OPERATIONS

Size, Scope, and Forecast of the Air Cannon System Market

Article | July 11, 2022

During the forecast period of 2022-2029, the Air Cannon System market size is expected to develop revenue and exponential market growth at a remarkable CAGR. The market's expansion can be attributed to rising demand for Air Cannon System in construction, industrial, mining, and other applications on a global scale. At the country level, the report provides insights into the lucrative opportunities in the Air Cannon System Market. The report also includes a precise cost, segment, trend, region, and commercial development of the major key players worldwide for the projected period. The comprehensive report on the Air Cannon System Market will analyse data changes and their global market impact. It also examines the overall growth of companies in the market as well as their ability to manage and control profit levels, which is critical for any investor looking to open and expand a business in the same market. The report aims to provide investors with an accurate prediction of market development over time by providing a detailed analysis of current trends and key changes that serve as a framework for the company to calculate market growth potential in the near future. The report also tracks and records significant events such as business combinations, joint initiatives, accomplishments, new product developments, or market activities. The main purpose is to provide a growth map from which the benefits can be calculated. It includes Porter's Five Forces analysis, which explains the five forces: customer bargaining power, distributor bargaining power, the threat of substitute products, and the degree of competition in the Air Cannon System market, as well as a market overview, which includes market dynamics. It describes the various market ecosystem players, such as system integrators, middlemen, and end users. Another major topic covered in the report is the competitive environment of the Air Cannon System market. The research also provides in-depth details about the COVID-19 scenario and its impact on the market to help with decision-making.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING

Factors Explaining Why American Manufacturing Is Growing

Article | July 11, 2022

Even though Silicon Valley has built its reputation on innovation, it is believed that it has lost its edge. Business entrepreneurs were encouraged to focus on gleaming venture capitalists, to sell bigger dreams to the most popular technology. The future of the American manufacturing industry is predicted to have more growth than the past two decades, and here are the reasons why: Excluding the Middleman: From ancient times, manufacturers sold through retailers who acted as middlemen in the distribution process, but with the upgradation of the industry, manufacturers can now directly connect to the consumers and the government. Rising Demand for US Made Products: The US population leans more towards products that are made in America. Hence, the manufacturers make extra efforts to produce high quality premium products for their customers. Customer Loyalty and Support: Customers love to connect with the brand and understand the brand’s struggle to manufacture and create excellent products. Engaging customers in the journey will help manufacturers gain insights and feedback, and improvise accordingly. People today are more keen towards seeing improvements sooner, and it has become much easier to hear from customers, iterate, fail, pivot, and improve quickly. Conscientious Capitalism’s Rise: When you take into account the carbon cost of transportation imports, there is another clear advantage to the growth of domestic production. Important financial advisors are also raising this alarm. For instance, the polypropylene required for the majority of PPE is manufactured in the U.S., transported to China, used to make masks, and then returned. Additionally, since at least 18% of air pollution is caused by ocean freight, domestic product manufacturing may benefit both the environment and consumer demand. Energy Costs: The cost of energy consumption in the United States is declining, which is crucial when competing with foreign companies. For the first time in modern history, domestic production has a strategic advantage because electricity is the second-highest cost after labor. Automation: The strategic advantage of cheap labour possessed by international competitors is eliminated by the growth of automation. Over the next ten years, robotic automation is expected to challenge enterprises that have relied on cheap labour as a competitive advantage, paving the way for a revival of American manufacturing.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,INDUSTRIAL DATA

The Top 8 Latest Trends in Manufacturing and Engineering for 2022

Article | July 8, 2022

Manufacturers are constantly striving to overcome challenges, improve processes, and identify efficiencies, and the manufacturing trends we predict for 2022 will all serve to further these objectives. As with any new year, technological advances, market needs, and business objectives will drive manufacturing industry trends. Looking ahead to the rest of 2022, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have an impact on manufacturing, implying that some 2021 trends will carry over — but there will be new challenges and opportunities. From business agility to worker safety and the realities of adapting to what may be a "new normal," the manufacturing trends in 2022 will be a response to the unique challenges of recent years in many ways. The continuous advancement of technology, connectivity, and automation is poised to solve problems while also presenting unprecedented opportunities. Let’s understand the trends in manufacturing and engineering in 2022: 2022 will be the year of smart factories Greater emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality Supply chain re-evaluation The permanent importance of reshoring Employee safety and health Data-driven maintenance as a margin booster Growing reliance on virtual processes Increasing demand with a reduced labor force ATS, as a technology-driven maintenance company, can assist you with your challenges and goals for 2022 and beyond, allowing you to lead your operations into the next decade. Contact ATS today for more information.

Read More
SMART FACTORY,INDUSTRIAL 4.0

Smart Manufacturing with IoT & Industry 4.0

Article | July 8, 2022

Industry 4.0 is a new phase of the Industrial Revolution that emphasizes interconnectivity, automation, machine learning, and real-time data. Industry 4.0 and IIoT combine physical production with smart digital technology to create a holistic and better connected ecosystem for manufacturing and supply chain management. Industry 4.0 is about revolutionizing the way your entire business operates and grows by investing in new technology and tools to improve manufacturing efficiency. In most cases, businesses are deploying iIoT devices and machinery linked by communication technologies to help industries collect, monitor, analyze, and deliver valuable insights. The specifics of how this technology is used vary from company to company, but the goal is always the same: to improve operational efficiency through analytics, automation, and connectivity. For example, The manufacturing sector is already undergoing a revolution. According to an IDC report, the sector spent $178 billion on the iIoT in 2016. Also, as per MarketWatch, iIoT investment in the manufacturing sector will grow at a CAGR of 29.68% until 2020. Amazon paid $775 million for the robotics company Kiva in 2012. It crosses our mind: why such a big investment? It made more sense for them to use robots to locate products and deliver them to their workers than for their workers to find the products themselves. Smart Manufacturing Use Cases: Industry 4.0 technology is being implemented by a North American tool manufacturer in order to improve efficiencies and productivity in its global manufacturing operations. Caterpillar recently collaborated with industrial analytics firm Uptake to develop technologies that will assist their customers in monitoring the health of their equipment. They used a variety of IoT and augmented reality technologies to provide machine operators with an instant view of vitals such as fuel levels and when the air filter needs to be replaced. When an air filter needs to be replaced, the technology sends detailed instructions to the machine operator. Siemens' factory in Amberg, Germany, personifies the company's passion for technological innovation. The plant was created as part of a collaboration with the German government to create a series of fully automated smart factories. The plant itself manufactures parts for BMW and is said to be approximately 75% automated. The purpose of going over these use cases is to help you imagine and consider how smart manufacturing could be integrated into your own organization.

Read More
MORE ARTICLE

Spotlight

SCHUNK

SCHUNK GmbH & Co. KG of Lauffen/Neckar is a German family-owned company and global player in one. The company was founded in 1945 by Friedrich Schunk as a mechanical workshop and has developed under the leadership of Heinz-Dieter Schunk to a competence and world market leader for gripping systems and clamping technology.

Related News

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

CORE Industrial Partners Portfolio Company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions Acquires EPMP

CADREX | October 07, 2022

CORE Industrial Partners (“CORE”), a manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services-focused private equity firm, announced today the acquisition of E.P.M.P., Ltd. (“EPMP” or the “Company”), a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider, by CORE portfolio company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions (“Cadrex”). The Cadrex platform was formed in 2021 and includes ten business units with approximately 1.5 million square feet of manufacturing space and more than 2,000 employees across ten states as well as Mexico. Founded in 1984, EPMP provides high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities utilizing a variety of different metals, including aluminum, copper and brass, as well as carbon, galvanized and stainless steel. The Company serves a nationwide customer base in the renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials end markets, among others, through an equipment fleet that includes press brakes, turret punches, fiber lasers, combination laser & punch machines and automated fabrication cells. Headquartered outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas, EPMP operates an ISO 9001-certified facility with over 50,000 square feet of manufacturing space. “EPMP’s significant historical investments in automation-driving material handling systems and robotics augment Cadrex’s high-volume sheet metal fabrication capabilities and make EPMP a highly strategic fit with the platform.” -Matthew Puglisi, Partner at CORE. Clint Plant, President of EPMP, said, For almost 40 years, EPMP has been committed to manufacturing and service excellence, demonstrating that commitment throughout all aspects of our organization. We recognize and appreciate this same customer-centric orientation at Cadrex and we’re looking forward to collaborating with Cadrex and CORE to continue our strong momentum. ABOUT CORE INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS: CORE Industrial Partners is a private equity firm with $700 million of capital commitments investing in North American lower middle-market manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services businesses. CORE’s team is comprised of highly experienced former CEOs and investment professionals with shared beliefs, deep experience, and a demonstrated track record of building market-leading businesses. Through our capital, insight, and operational expertise, CORE partners with management teams and strives to build best-in-class companies. ABOUT CADREX MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS: Cadrex is a leading provider of complex production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including information communication technology, aerospace & defense, energy transmission & distribution, food production & agriculture, medical, material handling and electronic gaming & kiosk. With locations in nine states and Mexico, Cadrex offers comprehensive in-house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, injection molding, electromechanical assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing capabilities from low- through high-volume production. ABOUT EPMP: EPMP is a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider for a variety of end markets, including renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials. The Company offers high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities from an ISO 9001-certified facility outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas.

Read More

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Epicor Acquires MES Provider eFlex Systems, Expanding Industry 4.0 Capabilities to Modernize Manufacturing Production Processes

Epicor | October 07, 2022

Epicor, a global leader of industry-specific enterprise software to promote business growth, today announced it has acquired eFlex Systems, a provider of cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) technologies. The acquisition expands the Epicor portfolio of Advanced MES capabilities to help manufacturers increase productivity by modernizing their production environments through digital work instructions, advanced process control, and real-time visibility. Financial terms were not disclosed. “I am thrilled to bring eFlex Systems into the Epicor family! Shop floors are a complex intersection of people, machines, robots, and materials, and it’s critical they work seamlessly together, People will continue to be at the heart of manufacturing, and our acquisition of eFlex Systems extends our ability to give Epicor customers the information they need to improve the user experience and unlock new levels of productivity.” -Steve Murphy, CEO Epicor. The eFlex Systems Manufacturing Integrated Platform (MIP®) enables manufacturers to manage and visualize global operations in real time, connecting devices, sensors, and machines with people to help operators build the right part, with the right tool, at the right setting in a safe and repeatable way. This helps manufacturers solve labor challenges by simplifying tasks and extending workers with connected devices which improves productivity. Epicor customers will be able to digitize processes through operator guidance, alerts, traceability, and data collection at the individual task level. Workstations can be configured and connected to their environments through open protocols and tools such as RFID, MQTT, and Node-RED, enabling operators to seamlessly leverage IoT devices such as DC tooling, barcode readers, weight scales, pick lights, PLCs, and others to complete the task at hand. “We’ve always been focused at eFlex Systems on helping customers reimagine manufacturing through sustainable, world-class production processes, By joining with Epicor, we’re furthering our mission to modernize manufacturing and bridge the data gap with cost-effective, easy-to-use solutions that drive efficiencies and throughput.” -Dan McKiernan CEO eFlex. About Epicor: Epicor Software Corporation equips hard-working businesses with enterprise solutions that keep the world turning. For nearly 50 years, Epicor customers in the automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail industries have trusted Epicor to help them do business better. Innovative Epicor solution sets are carefully curated to fit customer needs and built to respond flexibly to their fast-changing reality. With deep industry knowledge and experience, Epicor accelerates its customers’ ambitions, whether to grow and transform, or simply become more productive and effective.

Read More

3D PRINTING

Fortify Ships FLUX CORE 3D Printer to IERUS Technologies

Fortify | October 06, 2022

Fortify, provider of advanced composite-photopolymer printers, announced today that IERUS Technologies received a FLUX CORE 3D printer and Flux Developer materials onboarding software for design and engineering of Defense Systems. The 3D printer will be used to realize complex RF (radio frequency) applications. "Placing a printer at the IERUS Technologies headquarters provides a critical resource to support the growing need for additive manufacturing solutions in electromagnetics for Defense, Fortify's printers are uniquely positioned to print low-loss 3D printing materials, enabling performance advantages where traditional manufacturing falls short (due to machining, weight, and size)." -Eric Versluys, Director of Defense Programs at Fortify. IERUS Technologies, a provider of engineering and design solutions for Defense and commercial customers, such as sensors and strategic systems, is designing novel RF structures such as Graded Refractive Index (GRIN) lenses leveraging Fortify's FLUX CORE system. The Flux Core system enables companies like IERUS to take advantage of the design freedoms enabled by RadixTM, a 3D printable low-loss material developed by Rogers Corporation. "The Fortify 3D printer line will enable IERUS Technologies to develop complex RF structures that push the limits of traditional RF architectures with novel electromagnetic phenomenologies." -Jason Keen, CEO of IERUS Technologies This announcement comes a few months after Fortify's strategic investment from In-Q-Tel and the development of a portfolio of electronic 3D printing materials. IERUS will leverage the FLUX Developer toolkit, an open platform for the development of viscous and filled resins, to optimize printing of RF devices. Fortify will be showcasing 3D printed RF structures printed on the FLUX CORE 3D printer at Array 2022 October 11 - 14 in Waltham, MA. About Fortify: Fortify is transforming the 3D printing industry with its patented DCM (Digital Composite Manufacturing) platform. DCM delivers new levels of additively manufactured part performance by introducing functional additives to photopolymers. By combining a deep understanding of material science with high performance mixing, magnetics, and polymer physics, Fortify is able to produce custom microstructures in high-resolution 3D printed parts. The company is currently focused on applications ranging from injection mold tooling to high performance end-use parts with unique mechanical and electromagnetic properties. Founded in 2016 and based in Boston, Fortify4 technology enables material properties and components unattainable using other additive or traditional manufacturing processes.

Read More

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

CORE Industrial Partners Portfolio Company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions Acquires EPMP

CADREX | October 07, 2022

CORE Industrial Partners (“CORE”), a manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services-focused private equity firm, announced today the acquisition of E.P.M.P., Ltd. (“EPMP” or the “Company”), a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider, by CORE portfolio company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions (“Cadrex”). The Cadrex platform was formed in 2021 and includes ten business units with approximately 1.5 million square feet of manufacturing space and more than 2,000 employees across ten states as well as Mexico. Founded in 1984, EPMP provides high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities utilizing a variety of different metals, including aluminum, copper and brass, as well as carbon, galvanized and stainless steel. The Company serves a nationwide customer base in the renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials end markets, among others, through an equipment fleet that includes press brakes, turret punches, fiber lasers, combination laser & punch machines and automated fabrication cells. Headquartered outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas, EPMP operates an ISO 9001-certified facility with over 50,000 square feet of manufacturing space. “EPMP’s significant historical investments in automation-driving material handling systems and robotics augment Cadrex’s high-volume sheet metal fabrication capabilities and make EPMP a highly strategic fit with the platform.” -Matthew Puglisi, Partner at CORE. Clint Plant, President of EPMP, said, For almost 40 years, EPMP has been committed to manufacturing and service excellence, demonstrating that commitment throughout all aspects of our organization. We recognize and appreciate this same customer-centric orientation at Cadrex and we’re looking forward to collaborating with Cadrex and CORE to continue our strong momentum. ABOUT CORE INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS: CORE Industrial Partners is a private equity firm with $700 million of capital commitments investing in North American lower middle-market manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services businesses. CORE’s team is comprised of highly experienced former CEOs and investment professionals with shared beliefs, deep experience, and a demonstrated track record of building market-leading businesses. Through our capital, insight, and operational expertise, CORE partners with management teams and strives to build best-in-class companies. ABOUT CADREX MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS: Cadrex is a leading provider of complex production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including information communication technology, aerospace & defense, energy transmission & distribution, food production & agriculture, medical, material handling and electronic gaming & kiosk. With locations in nine states and Mexico, Cadrex offers comprehensive in-house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, injection molding, electromechanical assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing capabilities from low- through high-volume production. ABOUT EPMP: EPMP is a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider for a variety of end markets, including renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials. The Company offers high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities from an ISO 9001-certified facility outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas.

Read More

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Epicor Acquires MES Provider eFlex Systems, Expanding Industry 4.0 Capabilities to Modernize Manufacturing Production Processes

Epicor | October 07, 2022

Epicor, a global leader of industry-specific enterprise software to promote business growth, today announced it has acquired eFlex Systems, a provider of cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) technologies. The acquisition expands the Epicor portfolio of Advanced MES capabilities to help manufacturers increase productivity by modernizing their production environments through digital work instructions, advanced process control, and real-time visibility. Financial terms were not disclosed. “I am thrilled to bring eFlex Systems into the Epicor family! Shop floors are a complex intersection of people, machines, robots, and materials, and it’s critical they work seamlessly together, People will continue to be at the heart of manufacturing, and our acquisition of eFlex Systems extends our ability to give Epicor customers the information they need to improve the user experience and unlock new levels of productivity.” -Steve Murphy, CEO Epicor. The eFlex Systems Manufacturing Integrated Platform (MIP®) enables manufacturers to manage and visualize global operations in real time, connecting devices, sensors, and machines with people to help operators build the right part, with the right tool, at the right setting in a safe and repeatable way. This helps manufacturers solve labor challenges by simplifying tasks and extending workers with connected devices which improves productivity. Epicor customers will be able to digitize processes through operator guidance, alerts, traceability, and data collection at the individual task level. Workstations can be configured and connected to their environments through open protocols and tools such as RFID, MQTT, and Node-RED, enabling operators to seamlessly leverage IoT devices such as DC tooling, barcode readers, weight scales, pick lights, PLCs, and others to complete the task at hand. “We’ve always been focused at eFlex Systems on helping customers reimagine manufacturing through sustainable, world-class production processes, By joining with Epicor, we’re furthering our mission to modernize manufacturing and bridge the data gap with cost-effective, easy-to-use solutions that drive efficiencies and throughput.” -Dan McKiernan CEO eFlex. About Epicor: Epicor Software Corporation equips hard-working businesses with enterprise solutions that keep the world turning. For nearly 50 years, Epicor customers in the automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail industries have trusted Epicor to help them do business better. Innovative Epicor solution sets are carefully curated to fit customer needs and built to respond flexibly to their fast-changing reality. With deep industry knowledge and experience, Epicor accelerates its customers’ ambitions, whether to grow and transform, or simply become more productive and effective.

Read More

3D PRINTING

Fortify Ships FLUX CORE 3D Printer to IERUS Technologies

Fortify | October 06, 2022

Fortify, provider of advanced composite-photopolymer printers, announced today that IERUS Technologies received a FLUX CORE 3D printer and Flux Developer materials onboarding software for design and engineering of Defense Systems. The 3D printer will be used to realize complex RF (radio frequency) applications. "Placing a printer at the IERUS Technologies headquarters provides a critical resource to support the growing need for additive manufacturing solutions in electromagnetics for Defense, Fortify's printers are uniquely positioned to print low-loss 3D printing materials, enabling performance advantages where traditional manufacturing falls short (due to machining, weight, and size)." -Eric Versluys, Director of Defense Programs at Fortify. IERUS Technologies, a provider of engineering and design solutions for Defense and commercial customers, such as sensors and strategic systems, is designing novel RF structures such as Graded Refractive Index (GRIN) lenses leveraging Fortify's FLUX CORE system. The Flux Core system enables companies like IERUS to take advantage of the design freedoms enabled by RadixTM, a 3D printable low-loss material developed by Rogers Corporation. "The Fortify 3D printer line will enable IERUS Technologies to develop complex RF structures that push the limits of traditional RF architectures with novel electromagnetic phenomenologies." -Jason Keen, CEO of IERUS Technologies This announcement comes a few months after Fortify's strategic investment from In-Q-Tel and the development of a portfolio of electronic 3D printing materials. IERUS will leverage the FLUX Developer toolkit, an open platform for the development of viscous and filled resins, to optimize printing of RF devices. Fortify will be showcasing 3D printed RF structures printed on the FLUX CORE 3D printer at Array 2022 October 11 - 14 in Waltham, MA. About Fortify: Fortify is transforming the 3D printing industry with its patented DCM (Digital Composite Manufacturing) platform. DCM delivers new levels of additively manufactured part performance by introducing functional additives to photopolymers. By combining a deep understanding of material science with high performance mixing, magnetics, and polymer physics, Fortify is able to produce custom microstructures in high-resolution 3D printed parts. The company is currently focused on applications ranging from injection mold tooling to high performance end-use parts with unique mechanical and electromagnetic properties. Founded in 2016 and based in Boston, Fortify4 technology enables material properties and components unattainable using other additive or traditional manufacturing processes.

Read More

Events