Case Study
Alicat Scientific
Problem
Lead time increased 6x due to high volume of new orders and the machines on the floor weren’t able to keep up.
Solution
Installation of the form of the Kiwa KMH300A horizontal machining center to replace a vertical machining center.
Results
- KMH300A was able to successfully cut 303,304, and 316 stainless steel.
- First two machines completely removed production delays.
- Time per part was reduced by 50%.
“The machines cut so well, it sounds like I’m cutting aluminum when I’m cutting stainless. The finishes are beautiful and we have cut down our per part cut time by 50%.”
Greg Camron | Alicat Scientific
Return on Investment with the Kiwa KMH
The first Kiwa was delivered to their facility within one week of the order being placed and was cutting just one week after install. Six weeks after install the KMH300A was performing way beyond expectations cutting 316 stainless at 140 in/min and 303 stainless at 200 in/min and dug Alicat out of the production hole they were in. The immediate production drove Alicat to purchase another KMH300A immediately and then another two KMH300A with Pallet Pools a year later.
“Since switching over we have shorted our time per part by about 50% and are now running 24/7,” said Greg. “We have three shifts and have no problem letting the Kiwas run unattended knowing that they are going to keep going without any issues.”
Methods Unmatched Industry Service
The productivity and reliability of the Kiwa KMH300A paired with the unmatched service team at Methods Phoenix has made Methods the go to supplier for all of Alicat’s needs. “Nobody can match the service department at Methods. We have had other machines where we called for service and were told they would send someone in two weeks,” said Greg. “With Methods, if it’s an easy fix they walk us through it on the phone or if it’s a hard one they come out quickly. We have even called for parts and received them within 24 hours. They recognize the importance of not letting a machine stay idle.”
Results Driven Growth As Alicat has continued to grow and expand, the Kiwas have been able to keep them from falling behind in production and keep up with sales. The small footprint is perfect for their small shop environment where floor space is at a premium. Alicat has seen tremendous growth over the past three years culminating in the recently construction on their 11,000 sq ft expansion.