Shibaura Machine Discusses Opportunities to Improve Machine Tool OEE

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL, September 7, 2021

How many times is your machine “getting it right the first time” compared to what it should be producing in a set time? This is the basis of determining Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), a key performance indicator used to measure your machine tool’s productivity.

Measuring OEE is an equation of availability x performance x quality. While 100% would imply you are utilizing all of your allowed time (ideal cycle time), a typical OEE in manufacturing operation today is closer to 65%. This leaves many opportunities to improve. Improving can mean increased profits through better equipment utilization, but how can you determine where the gaps are occurring and what to focus on fixing? 

5 Ways to Improve OEE

In today’s challenging environment, Shibaura Machine recognizes the importance of being able to run a reliable, flexible process alongside consistent quality checks. Getting to a truly “lean” manufacturing process and increasing OEE requires focus on the following:

Team Collaboration

Within the manufacturing organization work together towards the common goal of improving your OEE. Production, maintenance, engineering, purchasing and quality teams should all be included in the efforts as each group plays an important role in the process.

Realistic Goals

Set goals that are within reach for your organization. A world-class OEE is considered to be at 85%. 

Leverage Data 

Once processes and production flow is in order, data becomes an indispensable tool to give a clear and quick view of your shop. Shibaura Machine will be introducing a predictive machine approach that should allow you to capture the necessary data to make informed decisions.

Prioritize Machine Assets

Understand which machines give you the best production and performance. Improve your maintenance regularly on equipment that needs additional support in order to optimize performance.

Preventative Maintenance Awareness

Increase your team's awareness on regularly scheduled preventative maintenance. Assess what has been done and needs to be done and work towards creating a streamlined schedule. 

Focus on continually measuring your progress in these five areas and adjust to make improvements as needed.

Your Partner to Improve OEE

While purchasing a reliable machine is paramount to your OEE, so is having a company that stands behind the machine tool they sold you. Shibaura Machine is committed to providing our customers machine tools that are reliable, high-quality, and backed by industry leading support. We believe in doing so our customers will be able to maximize their purchase and gain a true competitive advantage. Contact our team to learn more.

MT-Sales@shibaura-machine.com.