Critical Component Tracking |
For any system to be successful each component must be uniquely identified and permanently marked. This
allows the tracking of the performance of each component and removal of the poor performers from the
production process. |
Why track components?
Components should be tracked for only one reason; the benefits exceed the cost. Those benefits can come from several areas sucah as reduced costs, improved yields, improved reliability, increased life etc. Each situation is different and while benefits can be derived in every case, the real question is do those benefits exceed the costs. |
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What are the costs?
The obvious costs are the expense of marking the components, purchasing readers, purchasing computers, acquiring or developing software and the time or inconvenience to employees (including training and implementation). |
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Who should collect the data?
The personnel directly involved with each step of the process should collect the information. These are the most effective people and it keeps everyone involved in the process. They will develop an understanding of how the information is collected, why it is important and the impact it has on production. |
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When should the data be collected?
Data should be collected at the time the work is being performed. Do not change components and then try to do the record keeping at a later date. This increases the chance that data may be lost. |
The Marking process requires three questions to be answered:
The correct selection is governed by several factors. The environment to which the component will be exposed (heat, chemicals or wear), cost and the interface to the tracking/analysis system. All these factors affect the marking decision. |
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Stewart Technologies - Developers of "Track"-family Software for Industrial Production and Factory Maintenance. Stewart Technologies, Inc. 2421-A Westwood Ave. Richmond, VA 23230 (804)353-6880 Main Page | STI Profile | Data Services | Products | Related Links | Site Map | Contact Us Copyright © 2004 Stewart Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved. |