The factory has now been split into PCB assembly and Final assembly. The PCB assembly section is home to our new state-of-the-art SMT Machine which has also contributed to a more efficient process. The SMT PCBs are then checked through our AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) Machine before the conventional components are added.
On completion of the PCB assembly, the boards are then passed through ‘Project Gateway’ with their KanBan boards. The PCBs are then placed in the new and improved KanBans.
The KanBans have undergone a redesign to better utilize the space and allow more PCBs in a smaller space. All PCBs are clearly identifiable by the board displaying part numbers and the number of PCBs.
On depletion of stock, the KanBan boards are then passed back through the ‘Gateway’ to instruct the PCB assembly team to replenish stock.
Vimpex has adapted to the agile and quick turnaround nature of our business by implementing a priority indicator on the KanBan boards. These are done using a color marker on the board and a priority section within the Gateway.
Vimpex Managing Director James Jones also commented
‘This is a major improvement in the way we process sub-assemblies through our factory. The work that Jonathan Jones and his team have done significantly improves throughflow further improving quality and capacity. The effects on productivity are going to be significant, allowing us to maintain our extremely short lead times and our 95% on-time delivery performance. ‘Project Gateway’ again shows our industry how Vimpex has developed into an excellent manufacturer of high quality, competitively priced fire and security system components