Installation and Implementation of an Extrusion Cell in Aircraft Industry Utilizing Group Technology

Methods and procedures are discussed as to the impact of installing a new method of fabricating extrusion parts within the confinement of an existing conventional part making facility. Specific emphasis is directed to three words used every day: communications, cooperation, and coordination. The installation sequence will be shown plus what actually occurred in terms of higher productivity at all levels of the organization. Highlights and comparisons will be provided to allow direct comparison of conventional part manufacturing procedures versus cell manufacturing techniques.

Strengths and weakness will be explored in these categories relating to the actual installation of new technology on the shop floor itself. Items discussed will include the electronic routing process, operator's responsibilities, management's response, union's reaction, quality gains and what impact is readily apparent on the productivity level of output.