Vending machines can improve efficiency and productivity

This also supports extended operations as a quick visual check of the stock allows replacement items to be ordered so any delays waiting for tooling and fixturing are negated. As usage reports can be generated from the vending system the actual cost of the cutting tools and other items can be monitored against predicated or quoted figures; improving production and process engineering understanding of the task.

YMT Technologies’ Logistics Manager, Dean Phillips said: “We have already supplied a number of 60 and 70 station helix coil type vending units to our customers.”

Philips explained: “Although this sized system is a popular solution for many precision engineering workshops, we also offer smaller and larger capacity units, as well as drawer systems for vending heavy or awkward items.”

As well as consumable items, such as HSS and carbide cutting tools and indexable inserts, YMT’s vending systems can track the use of high value items such as toolholders, bespoke fixturing and measurement gauges.

“As the issue of any item within the vending system can be controlled, access to certain elements can be restricted,” Phillips continued. “For example, you may only want measuring equipment issued to inspectors or supervisors. Missing high value items become a thing of the past. With the system recording the last user, tracking anything down is straightforward, avoiding the ‘squirreling’ of key manufacturing items that many production managers will identify with.”

YMT vending systems are logistically dense, holding a significant level of stock while occupying the minimum factory floorspace. Providing concise consumption and usage trend reporting, the YMT vending system can reduce stock-levels, as well as administration and purchasing costs, with consolidated invoicing. It increases stock accuracy and identifies slow moving or obsolete items, and reports can be generated by user, job, cell or department with export options including PDF, CSV, Excel, Lotus Notes and email.

Phillips concluded: “While the benefits are far-reaching and extremely noticeable once the vending system has been installed, what amazes the most is the rapid improvements customers are reporting, in terms of efficiency gains and equipment productivity. It is a simple and elegant solution for any machine shop.”