Continuous improvement in production performance is significantly aided by the use of modern electronic controls. These systems provide substantial data for statistics (Statistical Process Control - SPC) and enable the visualization of various aspects of the production process.
Until only a few years ago, these electronic tools were not economically feasible. Their availability now has a considerable impact on how a production plant is run and influences the requirements for extruders and downstream equipment. These aspects are crucial for continuous improvement in production, extending beyond purely technical equipment construction and polymer processing aspects alone.
Scanners, for example, previously required an electrician to make their signal visible on a scope. Nowadays, the signal is visible directly on the control screen and can be adjusted by operators. This visualization capability removes much of the frustration previously associated with this type of equipment, empowering operators. Automatic Temperature Centring (ATC) and scanners are examples of process control systems that support the operator, freeing them from routine jobs while ensuring the pipe is produced optimally. Making things visual helps provide an automatic check.
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Metric |
Description |
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Data availability |
Lots of data for statistics and visualization provided by modern controls. |
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Scanner Signal |
Visible on control screen, adjustable by operators. |
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OEE Calculation Example |
0.9 (Availability) x 0.9 (Performance) x 0.9 (Quality) = 73% of max. production |