Superior Tube decreases lead-times with new draw mill process

Collegeville, Pa.-based Superior Tube Co., a manufacturer of small-diameter precision tubing for safety-critical applications, has reduced its lead-times from 30 weeks to six weeks, in some cases, by implementing a pull system as part of a reconfiguration of its draw mill processes.

The improved production flow is focused primarily on two specific nickel-chromium alloys: 718 and 625. Based on lean principles and minimizing the amount of handling required, the initiative is being supported by the establishment of a dedicated kaizen promotion office with a full-time responsibility for the reduction of waste.