I would like to here what you guys have to say / suggest about
one person running multiple machines.

We are looking for ways to train people how to get more done i.e. more
spindle time.

Here is a typical problem we encounter: One guy running two machines
Both machines are not running, in one machine is a large part that requires
a 20 minute setup, and will then run for about an hour unattended. For the other machine we have lined up a series of 10 parts, each of which requires
a 3 minute setup and have 10 minutes of run time. Which machines does he
tackle first? or does he do both?

How much spindle time per guy or per machine does a shop get per hour
the guy runs it?

By the way, if anyone wants to take this the wrong way, don't!
I want to help my people be more productive with less stress!

I would Hire another person to run the other machine, this will alow you to charge full time for both machines with no down time, And not to mention the libility of possible getting someone hurt by making them run back and forth and loose their train of thought.

Joe

This is a simple scheduling problem. A simply drawn gant chart will tell you. One person can only be at one machine at a time, so "tackling both" is not an option. He either starts at one machine or the other, so 2 gant charts can give a quick answer.

My guess is starting on the 3 min. setup, 10 min runtime will give the most spindle time. If you start with the other you have 40 min down time right up front.

Also, to stay clear of liability problems from "running back and forth", put up some no running signs in the shop. :rolleyes:

And to really cut down on the running, an E-stop for both machines at each machine. A crashing machine with an E-stop 10' away isn't pretty. If the machines aren't side by side, I suggest hiring another person. Even with them side by side, an E-stop within reach may save you a LOT of misery.

Running Of More Than One Machine Requires A Skilled Person Not Just At The Machine But Also In Shop Plannig And Schuleding Have You Thought Of The Pull System I've Heard That Many Companies Feel That Manufacting Is Going That Way?

I tend to reserve running more than one machine for those circumstances where it is actually boring to run just one. For example, a lengthy light finishing pass on a mold surface, where an incident is unlikely to happen, would be a good time to set up another machine or run it.

It is sweet when the right mix of jobs comes along that permit running several machines with one operator, but I consider it a luxery when it does happen, and don't try to force it to happen. It is not worth getting burned out at work every day trying to make miracles happen.

I will attempt to charge full rate (or quoted rate) for each machine that is running. It is none of the customer's business if I can run two or more.

Well.....it's quite simple....but you really need to look at the big picture.....first you need to determine where your 'bottlenecks' are at.......?

I'm available for consultation.