Lesson 6 - First production and ongoing orders
We finished last time when we had a new template for the production of a final product,
According to all the characteristics and requirements we have set.
Now you can start producing products for our various customers.
I make a distinction between the first production and the current orders,
Because the first production is seen in my eyes as still an experimental phase.
First production
In the first production, I recommend to my customers to produce a relatively small amount of products,
And this is so that if any error is discovered (planning, logistics, design)
We didn't think about it or didn't know about it before, the price we pay for it will be minimal.
After the first production, and another examination of the finished product,
We will feel more confident to produce large quantities.
An abstract illustration depicting the plastic injection process
injection machine
Continuous production series
Now we enter a process that is repetitive: producing a series followed by another series,
and so on to satisfy the demand for the product.
At this stage it is necessary to ensure that each product that is produced will be the same as what was produced before.
This precision is doubly important in complex and precise products from the field of medicine and technology.
To ensure product uniformity, the processes must be carried out methodically
It is important to document the process from the first production, and work according to it in the following series.
The documentation includes:
• Parameters of the injection machine
• Raw materials
• The colors and how they are made
• Approved example
• Blueprints
• Quality specification
• Exam plan
• Malfunctions and problems that existed in the previous production series
• Special highlights specific to the template and the product
In addition, the factory must carry out good maintenance of the machines and auxiliary equipment,
to maintain the same required repeatability.
For example, a cooling device (using which the mold is cooled)
Deviating from the required temperature may cause the product to be of different dimensions, or to distort, etc.
Or a machine whose cylinder and screw have worn out, will give poor and inconsistent results.
I repeat and emphasize here the need to work with reliable and experienced professionals,
who know the processes well, and are conducted in an orderly and organized manner.
Tip #6:
So that the manufacturer can test the product optimally,
You should explain to him what the product will be used for,
provide him with the overall assembly that the product connects to,
and ask him to perform functional tests during production.
In the next and final email in our introductory series I will talk about manufacturing in China.
In the meantime, I will be happy to answer questions by email: boaz@plastomold.com
thanks and have a good day,
Boaz