Instructors at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ World Class Manufacturing Academy (WCMA) have one goal: get every student focused on world class manufacturing, which is Fiat’s version of Toyota’s lean manufacturing production system.
Alabama is home to state-of-the-art auto plants operated by Daimler, Honda, Hyundai and Toyota. It’s also home to a state-of-the-art assembly line that builds toy cars out of Lego blocks: Tiger Motors.
Electric tools have been available for more than a decade. However, until recently, many manufacturers were reluctant to invest in the technology because DC electric screwdrivers and nutrunners traditionally were more expensive than air-powered alternatives.
The latest technology for ultrasonic plastic welding provides better process control and the tools to handle more part variations.
June 3, 2013
A lot can happen in 0.5 second, especially in the world of assembly. One or more rivets can be simultaneously inserted. Multiple beads of adhesive can be dispensed. And two thermoplastic pieces can be ultrasonically welded into a usable part.