The circle line: Cyclic assembly and positive outcomes

New production processes using cyclic assembly, at LPKF have had a positive effect on the company’s clients and efficiency.

“In the past, LPKF had compelling solutions in the form of outstanding individual systems for laser plastic welding. We have now begun the production of customisable basic machines – which not only benefits us but also our clients,” explained Markus König, one of the managing directors of the LPKF production site in Fürth, Germany.

The most important step was moving out of the restricted rooms in Erlagen into the spacious production buildings in Fürth, as well as the construction of a new office block. This contains the application centre which is equipped with several testing rooms, laser systems and measuring devices for welding tests and to qualify the own processes of our clients. At the site the production services company LaserMicronics uses its own LPKF laser systems for ramp-up and series production.

Radical restructuring of the production flows took place at the beginning of April. Instead of the design and production of individual special machines, the work now concentrates on cyclic assembly of high-performance basic machines. These models are then used to realise customised modifications in subsequent fast and cost-efficient processes. Cyclic assembly opens up greater flexibility for complex technical developments which benefit whole production lines rather than individual systems. The first throughput of a complete line has now been completed, and confirmed the expected advantages.

“Our customers are very keen on this concept. We have been able to slash the construction time by almost half and therefore also significantly reduce the lead times and manufacturing costs. We can also prepare quotes much faster than before, and it makes it easier for provide services – which naturally benefits our customers in particular,” said Lars Ederleh, managing director.