Infrastructure Needs Analysis Revitalizes Load Cell Production Flow Line

Emery Winslow was interested in consolidating resources from a separate location into their Seymour, Connecticut facility where they would bring in load cell material to assemble, test, pack, and ship. Before making such a move, they needed to define the requirements of the move and consolidation. Specific and relevant criteria would have to be developed to help guide their decision to consolidate and implement such a move.

As part of Emery Winslow’s planned consolidation, they were looking to evaluate a viable “mixed model” production flow line capable of high and low volumes for their scales and load cell products and generate additional output. The company engaged the services of CONNSTEP to assist in reaching their stated goals.

Emery Winslow leadership discussed their stated goals and intentions with CONNSTEP who recommended a two-phased approach to determine the feasibility of a consolidation move and its subsequent implementation.

Phase 1 involved planning, defining flow line and developing a timeline of action items to help determine if the company would move forward with the consolidation. This included outlining improvements to make, refining processes, comparing current state to how to run future state, and a comprehensive plant layout. Scaled drawings of production floor plans were created as well as an inventory management process, WIP and a finished goods storage plan.

Phase 2 involved working with contractors and making adjustments to the final plant equipment layout and floor space. CONNSTEP also assisted and trained the Emery Winslow workforce on the mixed model production flow line the company was seeking to implement by defining workstation logistics and working with them to compile a list of equipment, tools and fixtures for each of the workstations within the flow line.

Emery Winslow’s fully operational flow line met their goal of providing high and low volume production of their scales and load cell products and have doubled their output since the consolidation. Workstations are compliant with the production velocities and processes required to meet demand and position the company to handle future growth.

The company continues to meet customer demand and is poised for business growth in large part due to implementing 5S and safety measures, streamlined work flow, lean techniques, visual mapping, inventory in the right place and having the tools and equipment they need. All leading to better productivity, inventory control, quality, and delivery.