Grinding Journal - Fall 2007 - (Page 13)

So TMMK sometimes uses the Helicheck to verify a manual measurement. Mike says “We use it to check parts from our suppliers that have been measured manually, especially if they say it’s borderline. We’ve had cases in which the manual measurement says the tool is right on the borderline, and the Helicheck proves it’s actually 2 microns undersized, yet the supplier denies it.” Helicheck helps troubleshooting Tooling Specialist Abhijit Kardekar says TMMK also uses the Helicheck for troubleshooting. “For example, we can check a reamer in its holder to see if the holder introduces any runout.” He also likes the fact he can check his indexable tools, some of which have features that cannot be checked on a V-block. “You can put it on a Helicheck and check run-out on those tools also…Long drills, standard indexable drills, and endmills too…We can see whether or not the insert was mounted properly and although they don’t have the highest runout tolerances, when a part comes out badly we can at least do some troubleshooting and eliminate tool runout as the problem.” Kentucky plant leads the way Every tool used within Toyota is designed for a specific purpose by the home office. And Toyota also mandates company-wide Quality Assurance programs. But TMMK’s tool measuring program goes farther and the rest of the company is beginning to catch on. Mike explains that in Japan “They have a slightly different philosophy on how to use the Helicheck. They’re looking only at runout but we didn’t think that was good enough.” “We presented our Tool Point Management program to the Global Engine Committee back in May – that’s representatives from all the Toyota engine plants – and it was very well received. TPM is being implemented at all Toyota engine plants, but whether they will all implement our particular method remains to be seen. But they see the value of it and we’ve had their guys from regrind here and they all agree it’s great.” The Daruma doll in the lobby symbolizes the success of the 2AZ (four cylinder) engine line. The doll arrived with white eyes. Following Japanese tradition, at the start of the engine project the TMMK leadership blackened one eye while wishing for success and the team members signed the doll. When the production line was up and running they blackened the second eye in another ceremony. The Daruma’s low center of gravity and self-righting shape also symbolizes the team’s belief that although they may stumble, they will persevere and prevail in the end. INFO grinding.com Ed Sinkora • 540.710.2408 edward.sinkora@grinding.com Grinding Journal 13 http://www.grinding.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Grinding Journal - Fall 2007

Grinding Journal - Fall 2007 Contents From Virginia: Apparently no credit crunch for machine tools Why measure cutting tools Other perspectives on CNC tool measuring Productive grinding of superalloys SUPER service grinding BIG rolls Problem Solver

Grinding Journal - Fall 2007

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