As well as impacting the design , the requirement for additional connectors can increase time spent during assembly , making it more difficult to keep up with demand .
ARaymond recently released a range of VDA LOW PUSH Quick Connectors™ , which can reduce the insertion force required by 45 per cent compared with other industry standard components with end piece dimensions of NW16 . This means only around half the daily effort is required by staff — six tonnes rather than twelve for 1,500 connections a day . This helps create a healthier , happier workforce while also speeding up production .
STAYING AHEAD OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN CRISIS
Considering the supply chain at the design stage will help your colleagues in production greatly . The current market has created a shortage in a variety of raw materials , particularly steel , causing supply challenges and long lead times , which in some cases are upwards of six months . Researching the availability and lead time on components at the design stage can reduce the risk of supply chain challenges later down the line .
In short , start planning supply needs now . Getting started early is the best way to avoid any delays in production . Partnering with a collaborative supplier that can solve both design and supply challenges could be crucial in keeping your production line running .
At TFC , we usually work anywhere from eight to 12 months ahead to avoid any delays in shipments , but the most important
thing for us is that we ’ re honest and upfront about the challenges the industry is facing . These issues aren ’ t going anywhere anytime soon , so staying ahead of shortages and identifying design flaws early on is the best way forward .
TFC has been a leading supplier of engineering products for over 60 years , supporting with design development , high quality components and tailored inventory solutions . For more information , contact Simon Ward at SWard @ tfc . eu . com or visit the TFC website .
For further information , please visit www : www . tfc . eu . com
Issue 58 PECM 33