Quality doesn't just happen. Accurately assessing each machined part's risk before it hits production is a key way to improve quality. Taking a look at internal capability and comparing that to the type of material, part application and tolerance requirements takes experience and sound processes to yield the best results. Developing a script for each part and machine ensures that every operator knows the details of this analysis and not only sets up the machine accordingly, but follows strict protocols for quality checks during production.

If you've experienced post-sale product failure or equipment downtime in your manufacturing operation due to out-of-tolerance parts, you know all too well the pains of poor quality. In an effort to make delivery schedules and keep part cost down, machine shops are under the gun constantly to work faster and more efficiently. If raw materials are of poor quality, part manufacturing costs go up in terms of decreased tool life, machine downtime and material scrap. It's in your best interest to find an experienced supplier who vets their raw material as much as you vet them. It ensures the best quality part, fastest delivery and lower total procurement cost.

Quality is a term that is thrown around a lot. Even if a company is ISO 9000-certified, it doesn't always mean their controls are best-in-class. Manufacturers can reduce the risk of poor quality or late delivery by working with an experienced machine shop. In an effort to reduce their own downtime and scrap, these shops have already had the burden of vetting raw material suppliers.

The topic of reshoring is hot on the minds of many U.S. manufacturers. ReshoreNow.org has reported that the tide is now turning. In their latest report, this organization, which helps companies assess their total cost of offshoring, estimates that reshoring exceeds offshoring by 27,000 jobs. This is good news for American manufacturing.

Manufacturers might consider reshoring for various reasons, as reported by ReshoreNow.org:

• Shorter lead time
• Higher product quality and consistency
• Rising offshore wages
• Skilled workforce
• Freight costs
• Image of being Made in USA
• Lower inventory levels, better turns
• Better responsiveness to changing customer demands
• Minimal intellectual property and regulatory compliance risks
• Improved innovation and product differentiation
• Local tax incentives

We've seen a lot of new business from companies looking to reduce the total cost (and the headache) of using offshore suppliers. In one case a commodity buyer worked with PFI Precision Machining to develop a solution that resulted in significantly lower total procurement cost and improved assembly cell uptime.