Hear how Hypertherm executed a process to identify cycle time variability through engaging design and supply chain and implement kaizen events focused on reducing model-to-model and person-to-person cycle time variability.
Line balancing is a tried and true cycle time analysis tool for manufacturers who create mixed model value streams. The current literature does a good job in teaching manufacturers how to manage variability in demand through finished goods kanbans and variability product mix through work sequencing. But what about when the variability is inherent in the design of the product itself or when the variability occurs between people executing the same process? Go inside Hypertherm’s Powermax mixed model assembly line and review results from the kaizen events to see the overall effect on the value stream.
Hypertherm is a U.S. based manufacturer of advanced cutting products used in shipbuilding, manufacturing and automotive repair. Its product line includes plasma, laser and waterjet cutting systems, as well as CNC motion controls, CAM nesting software, robotic software and consumables. The 100 percent associate-owned company has 1,400+ associates along with operations and partner representation worldwide. Hypertherm has received the Communitas Award for Leadership in Community Service and Corporate Social Responsibility and was named Ethisphere Institute 2015 World’s Most Ethical Company. www.hypertherm.com
George Konstantakos is director of operations for light industrial systems at Hypertherm Inc., and oversees the global manufacturing for all air plasma products. In his 25-year career, he has served as director of supply chain and manufacturing engineering team leader. He has learned, trained and applied the Toyota Management System throughout manufacturing, supply chain and administration. Prior to Hypertherm, he served as a lean/six sigma master black belt for Cookson Electronics Inc. He holds a BS in engineering from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an MBA from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
