How Can Four Equal One? – A Case Study in Streamlining Multiple Special Processes

In a previous post we spoke about streamlining your special processes to improve your bottom line. Now we’ll take a look at how one part would move through our multi-process shop. Four processes can equal one when a part has four sequential special processes done in one shop on one purchase order. To illustrate this, let’s look at a section of the value stream map for a Locking Nut that mates up to an LPT Shaft, which ultimately ends up in a jet engine.

This life limited part starts out as a 410 stainless steel bar. After machining and heat-treating, we receive the part in to perform Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) which is a form of Non-Destructive Testing. This special process is done to ensure there are no cracks or voids in the parent material that could result in an in-flight failure.

Having passed MPI, the part travels immediately into our Dry Film Lubricant (DFL) Department, where it has a thin layer of Molybdeum Disulfide (a type of DFL) applied to its threads. This ensures it will rotate smoothly when mated up to an LPT shaft at assembly.

Next, the part moves right into our Bonded Products Division where a special low-friction fabric washer that we laser cut to exacting tolerances is adhered to its bearing surface using our Adhesive Bonding technology.

This special fiber washer acts as a maintenance-free thrust bearing when it mates up to the adjoining surface on the LPT shaft.

The final stop for this part is in our Precision Cleaning Division. Here it will undergo a thorough cleaning and inspection to a microscopic level to ensure there are no particles on it that could damage the part itself or other sensitive components within the engine during use.

It is PTI’s unique Multi-Process capabilities that make it possible for Four to equal One. Streamlining your processes in our shop will result in reduced shipping, handling, paperwork, downtime and all related peripheral activities that will save you money in the long run.