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The SW20 is a complex machine that can run three different programs at the same time. The crafty programmer maximizes simultaneous running on as many of those three programs as possible. Having all three running simultaneously is ideal and is when the machine is most efficient.
hardworking. There is no challenge that they are not up for. When we added the first Star to our shop, we had to upgrade to all new programming software as well due to the complex capabilities of the machine. We bought Esprit and it has been doing the trick for us.”
Until you put a machine tool into production you neverknowifitwillliveuptothehypeandadmittedly the Filger team were a little skeptical at first. “Before we purchased our first Star SW20 we sent some examples of parts over to them,” explains Lane. “We asked for a time study to show us what it will take to manufacture the required specs. They supplied us with cost analysis, and we were like wow, that can really save us some time if the information is accurate. Lo and behold we bought the machine and began the process of on-boarding it. It takes a very skilled machinist/ programmer to run the parts we run on these machines and our Lead STAR Machinist is constantly finding ways he can improve the output and quality. The machines have been very reliable. We handle all the maintenance, but if there is a problem service is down here right away to handle any issue. Put it this way, we bought our first Star in 2017, then got the next one in 2018, then 2019 we added two more. To say we like them is an understatement.”
Statistics show that a large number of 3rd generation businesses fail for various reasons, but 2019 was Filger Manufacturing’s best year ever. Although 2020 hasn’t been great for anyone they will survive it and come out
the other side better than before. “Before the outbreak we really stepped up our efforts diversify/expand within our current customers portfolios,” details Casandra. “Now having the issues with the 737 Max and the grounding of so many planes we are glad we did. More diversification was the plan before Covid and it will be a primary focus afterCovid.”“Normallywewouldbebookedout6months to a year with contracts,” adds Lane. “With the world grinding to a halt, orders are being shifted around. We are not at capacity and have spindle time available if any of your readers out there are in need of our level of quality and service. We’ve seen a slowing of course, but we began 2020 in a great position and will weather this storm the same way we have for 67 years. When the world is back running more normally again, we will be right there with everyone traveling, surfing and ramping up production.” “There is a photo of our Grandpa in the office and it is inspiring to all of us,” concludes Casandra. “We are proud of the company that our Grandfather started, and our father built with him. We are excited to continue on with their legacy for years to come.”
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