Continuous improvement and statistical process control are useful,time-tested techniques—they have been used since the 1950s—buttheir use must be tailored to specific applications. For example, atypical manufacturing metric is parts per minute, but many rollformers should measure feet per minute. This and other tips can helproll formers accurately evaluate their productivity and measure theimpact of process improvements.

Since its inception in 1924, Plymouth Tube Co. has had a strong faith in the capabilities of its people. Its plant at Eupora, Miss., recently made some changes in the way management formulates strategic plans, and it now includes input from all of the plant employees in executing its strategy. This result is sustained, measurable improvements in safety, quality, and productivity.

Knowing the capabilities and drawbacks of laser and waterjet machines is the key in determining which is best for a particular application.

Continuous improvement and statistical process control are useful, time-tested techniques—they have been used since the 1950s—but their use must be tailored to specific applications. For example, a typical manufacturing metric is parts per minute, but many roll formers should measure feet per minute. This and other tips can help roll formers accurately evaluate their productivity and measure the impact of process improvements.