Waterjet Proves a Perfect Fit for Lean Manufacturing Principles

Abrasive waterjet machines are a formidable technology for stewards of Lean Manufacturing principles.  Value for the customer, ultra-high workflow efficiency and the pursuit of perfection are at the top of Lean Manufacturing’s objectives, and waterjet technology easily integrates into the strategy’s methodology.

Value

Value sits at the top of the Lean pyramid. Identifying and adding value for the customer and maximizing internal operational value for the shop are Lean’s primary goals. To that end, waterjet technology’s primary value-add proposition is found in its flexibility. Waterjets cut like a saw, process external geometries for near net production, cut round parts like a lathe and square parts like a milling machine. Additionally, they cut complex parts like an electrical discharge machine (EDM) and slot like a broach.

Value Stream

As a result, shops provide a deep range of capabilities for customers through waterjet cutting.  OMAX waterjets process virtually any material – from steels, super alloys and exotics to composites, plastics, stone and more – at a wide range of thicknesses without creating a heat-affected zone (HAZ) or changing workpiece properties. 

Create Workflow

Waterjet cutting tools never wear out or get dull, so tooling inventories and costs are reduced. Setups and downtime due to tooling changeovers are also decreased, which improves overall workflow and part quality. As these operational and workflow improvements are realized, value is added to the shop. Further, with parts produced faster and more cost-effectively, customers benefit in terms of price and speed to market.

Pull Value

Because of their flexibility and efficiency, waterjet machines promote the Lean model’s sustainable production and customer pull value through just-in-time production. Instead of producing inventory that sits on a shelf waiting for a customer to order, parts and products are manufactured quickly and efficiently upon customer demand. 

Pursuit of Perfection

Lastly, Lean Manufacturing principles encourage continual improvement and the daily pursuit of perfection. At OMAX, operator training has been a priority from day one. We offer monthly classes at our facility in Kent, Washington. We also provide on-demand, self-paced learning with eLearning modules and recordings of instructor-led virtual training sessions to ensure shops can maximize the return on their abrasive waterjet machines for themselves and their customers. We are also developing Augmented Reality (AR) training and support capabilities that will take training and service to new levels. 

Waterjet cutting machines embody the heart of the Lean Manufacturing philosophy. Value to the customer, streamlined workflow, and a commitment to constant improvement are combined in one cutting tool technology for today’s manufacturing.