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Clamping with QX

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Manufacturing defects are expensive and removing these errors prior to equipment leaving the production floor is an achievable result when utilizing the proper assembly equipment.  In the below case study, implementing proper tooling resulted in a significant reduction in warranty, service work, and recalls.

Customer

A global manufacturer of grain and sugar cane harvesters located within the Southeastern United States.

 

Challenge: Warranty, Service Work, and Recalls

During the manufacturing process; a sub assembly cell was responsible for proper tightening of fluid hose clamps.  The specified torque and angle of these hose clamps was not being achieved by current in plant tooling.  This failure was a direct result of joint conditioning and relaxation associated with the hose clamp tightening process.  In order to confirm clamps were properly tightened a manual QC measure was put into place in order to catch the issue prior to units leaving for in field use.   However, manual processes are reliant on operator execution and improperly tightened units continued to leave the production floor incorrect.  This issue was exaggerated once units reached final destinations for use within the field, as inadequate torqued hose clamps, were continuing to loosen causing costly warranty, recall, and infield technician repairs.

Air Power’s Solution

In partnership with the customer, Air Power implemented an Ingersoll Rand QX Precision fastening System. The hand held, battery operated, transducerized tooling solution provided an accurate final torque, while providing the operators with tightening status feedback, actual torque values, and 1,200 rundowns of tightening data for review.  A proper torque strategy was developed allowing the hose clamp to be properly torqued, relaxed (conditioned), then final torqued; all within a single trigger pull delivered by the operator.  The need for a manual QC measure was removed as the torque data was verified, tracked, and retained by the manufacturing facility for spot check and validation.

 

Ingersoll Rand QX Series Right Angle Wrench

Result

Currently, thirteen (13) right angle tools are being utilized within this facility allowing production to reach new heights of process control.  Proper tightening of the hose clamps, torque data retention, and date/time stamping have reduced warranty, service work, and those costly infield technician repairs.  The Air Power solution ensures that product leaving the production floor is assembled correctly, the first time.

 

 

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Clamping with QX

Driving New Technology

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As the manufacture sector continues to change we understand the tedious task of staying current on the most cutting edge tooling technology.  So, allow us to “Drive New Technology” to your facility for hands on application demonstrations, accurate torque programming, and ergonomic optimization.  Whether this is for a single application demo, in which an Air Power Account Manager loads up the appropriate equipment within their vehicle and brings onsite, or a much larger venture, where Air Power in partnership with a manufacture partner bring in dedicated personal for the day, our goal is to continually be a resource and “drive new technology”.  A few notable campaigns below in which Air Power, in partnership with our vendor partners, drove new technology to the customer for the most optimal customer experience.

 

Cleco CellTour

 

Completing over 35 stops within the Southeast, the Cell Tour proved to be a huge success for both Air Power and Cleco.  The CellTour showcased Cleco’s innovation in reinventing cordless through a unique, dynamic, and fun mobile experience.  When driving this new technology, customers were able to perform hands on testing through interactive demonstrations and joint simulations.  The new CellCore Cordless Assembly platform – Easy to Handle. Hard to Break. – consists of smart, durable, and ergonomically designed battery operated transducerized tools.  The lightweight ergonomic design reduces operator fatigue and the large user interface makes it very quick and easy to program.  The CellTour highlighted the CellCore product, as well as, provided an additional sampling of APEX’s assembly fabrication tool product solutions.

 

Cleco Cellcore CellTourCleco Cellcore Tour

 

 

Graco – Pumps and Process

 

Graco’s Pump and Process trailer has made numerous stops within the southeast; including our most recent location in Salem, Va. This valuable tool is packed with operational diaphragm, piston, peristaltic, and ram pumps ready for any and all to be trained.  Rob Woodward, of Graco, does an excellent job showcasing the products housed within the traveling trailer, highlighting New Graco offerings, including the Husky Electric Diaphragm Pump platform.  These pumps have the advantages of double diaphragm pumps (self-priming, running dry, and stalling under pressure) with the efficiency of an electric drive (up to five times more efficient than pneumatic diaphragm pumps).

 

Graco Pumps and Process Trailer

 

Dyna-Day

 

If you grind, sand, or polish, then experiencing the Dynabrade Difference during an onsite Dyna-Day is a must.  Dynabrade has earned a reputation for excellence and is a leader in innovation design and manufacturing of pneumatic abrasive power tools.  The fully outfitted Dyna-Van showcases Dynabrade’s commitment highlighting all the made in America tool manufacture has to offer.  Whether you would prefer a parking lot trade show style setup or in plant experience, Dynabrade is flexible in catering to the user experience.

Air Power and Dynabrade are currently on a Dyna-Day roadshow within North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, so far completing twelve (12) events with plenty of excitement for additional locations.  A highlight of the event is being able to put the tools to use, including the new Dynorbital Extreme, known for its extreme power, extreme comfort, and extreme performance, this newly released model random orbital sander has been a show stopper.

 

Dynabrade's Dyna-Day with Air Power

Dynabrade's Dyna-Day with Air Power

 

Ingersoll Rand QX – The Future is Real

 

Ingersoll Rands “The Future is Here. The Future is Now. The Future is Real” roadshow allowed for the education and utilization of the QX Series platform of assembly tools.  This tour highlighted the benefits of the QX platform, showcasing next generation functionality; which was evident within the hands on demonstrations that could be performed on the active stations within the truck.  The complete line of QX tools feature: QXN, QXC, QXX, QXM, and the most recent QX+ETS models in both the pistol and right angle orientations.  This robust tooling platform can handle any torque with pistol and right angle orientations up to 2,000NM.  The New QX +ETS models feature an ergonomically enhanced motor algorithm for a significant reduction in the average force experienced by an operator during the tightening process.

 

Ingersoll Rand QX Roadshow Ingersoll Rand QX Roadshow

 

 

Within all of our assemble, move, and coat technologies; Air Power prides itself on our ability to drive these new technologies to your facility.  Not all technologies we drive to your facility, have to be as elaborate as the programs highlighted above.

Our Account Managers – Drive New Technology – every day.

Give Air Power a Call Today!

 

 

Ergonomics and Quality Control to New Heights

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Manufacturers of passenger transportation systems make every effort to exceed in safety intelligence within the industry. This case study demonstrates safety improvements, as well as, operator ergonomic advantages, in an effort to decrease facility liability.

Customer

 
Manufacturer of vertical transportation systems.

Challenge

 
Operators manually load and unload valves utilizing an older pneumatic torque tool. The current tool utilized within production was non-shut off and provided no verification of installation. The operator was responsible for assuming the proper socket and torque combination capable for a successful installation. The inability to measure torque accurately resulted in an inconsistent quality of final product with no verification that it was done properly. In addition, this application proved labor intensive and was the cause of concern for operator safety and ergonomics.

Solution

 
Air Power implemented a custom Ingersoll Rand DC Electric Assemble tool, integrated into a GCI torque reaction arm, with a pneumatic clamping fixture omitting operator strain and removal before completion. Custom sockets were provided to insure precise fit.  The custom fixtured Ingersoll Rand DC Electric tool was coupled with a front end Norbar Multiplier producing actual real time torque verification and discreet I/O output, which was coupled with an Air Power provided PLC to monitor torque and track data usage.

 

 

Results

 

The solution realized by Air Power created a torque verified product that allowed for a safer work environment and smoother process for the operator. All build requirements can now be monitored, tracked and viewed through a transparent build as a result of system implementation.

 

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Ergonomics and Quality Control to New Heights

 

 

Programming your Ingersoll Rand QX Tool – It’s that Easy

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Taking total control of your fastening process doesn’t have to be complicated. Ingersoll Rand’s comprehensive QX Series family of fastening systems deliver simple, flexible and capable solutions for all of your assembly requirements. No matter the industry or application, you can count on Ingersoll Rand as a trusted partner to help you get the job done right!

 

The innovative QX Series of cordless precision fasteners is a revolutionary step for your entire facility – one that shows how a smarter tool can improve process control, operator comfort and data communication. In a single, affordable package, this tool puts you in control by helping to increase productivity, lower costs and ensuring a high-quality product at the end of your production line.

The QX Series family of tools consists of:

  • QXN
  • QXC
  • QXX
  • QXM
  • QX ETS

Currently, there are three (3) quick, easy, and effective methods in which to program a QX tool for deployment within your manufacturing process.

1.Programming with the Insight Connect App:

    1. The INSIGHT™ Connect app will help you stay productive, mobile and in control of your fastening process. It programs any Ingersoll Rand® QX Series™ tool without the need for additional technical training, special software, plant network permissions or a laptop computer. Working from a smartphone or tablet, operators can use the app to quickly program the torque and angle control configurations on these closed-loop, transducerized tools.
    2. Once installed, the INSIGHT™ Connect app can operate offline, so it functions in large facilities or other locations where Internet signal loss may be a problem, reducing downtime and maximizing ease of use. You can quickly perform key tasks with your mobile device, including:
      •  Strategy
        • Torque
        • Angle
        • Torque + angle
      • Back-up and restore tool settings
      • Retrieval of tool logs and the ability to send via email for post-processing
      • Review audit logs

 

 

2. Programming from the back of the tool

Download PDF

How to Program an IR QX Tool

 

Or reference the below video (some of the menu options have changed since this video was posted by Ingersoll Rand in 2017 – but the overall flow and understanding remain unchanged)

 

 

3. Programming utilizing the Ingersoll Rand ICS Software

 

 

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Ingersoll Rand QX Series Cordless Precision Tools

 

 

QX Series + ETS: Ergonomic Tightening System

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Taking total control of your fastening process doesn’t have to be complicated. The Ingersoll Rand QX Series™ family of fastening systems deliver simple, flexible and capable solutions for all assembly requirements. No matter the industry or application, you can trust Ingersoll Rand  to help you get the job done right. Ingersoll Rand® has released the QX Series™ Ergonomic Tightening System (ETS). With ETS, reducing the torque reaction of the fastening process doesn’t have to be complicated. The ergonomically-enhanced motor control algorithm minimizes torque reaction to protect workers from injury. When tightening, ETS delivers short bursts of energy into the fastener, enabling the operator to safely stay in control of the tool.

What is ETS?

ETS stands for “Ergonomic Tightening System”

QX + ETS delivers all the performance & control features of the standard QX Series ™ precision fastening tools, with an improved ergonomic benefit. QX + ETS incorporates an ergonomically enhanced motor control algorithm that significantly reduces the average amount of force experienced by the operator during the tightening process.

Why choose ETS?

When ETS is Active, the operator’s arm movement is limited to a series of smaller movements instead of one large movement. This enables the operator to stay in control and in the ‘power zone’, reducing the chance for injury caused by quick, excessive movement.

QX + ETS reduces average reaction force experienced by the QX Series user by up to 63%!

 

ETS FEatures

Resources:

QX Series Ergonomic Tightening System – Agriculture Case Study

QX Series + ETS Catalog

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Air Power Attends BHP Chamber of Commerce 2019 Membership Awards Celebration

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Air Power Manufacturing Solutions was invited to the BHP Chamber of Commerce 2019 Membership Awards Celebration held on Tuesday, February 19th. The event was held over lunch at the beautiful High Point Country Club. The 2019 Membership Awards Celebration is an annual event held by the Business High Point Chamber of Commerce. This event is the Business High Point Chamber’s opportunity to recognize all the people who make their organization great.

The celebration kicked off with a welcome from the President and CEO of the BHP Chamber, Patrick Chapin. The welcome was followed by a short prayer led by Reverend Dr. Frank Thomas of Mt. Zion Baptist Church of High Point. Thereafter, we heard a brief message from the Sponsor of the event, Phillip Morgan of Piedmont Natural Gas. Lastly, there was an address from the BHP Chamber Chairman David S. Congdon, CEO of Old Dominion Freight.

Congratulations to All the Winners and Nominees

 

We’d like to thank the Business High Point Chamber of Commerce for recognizing Air Power Manufacturing Solutions for reaching our 50 year milestone. We would also like to congratulate the nominees and following winners:

Small Business of the Year – Northwood Animal Hospital

Business of the Year – Bethany Medical Center

Minority-Owned Business of the Year – Karma Contracting

Community Organization of the Year – Bobby Labonte Foundation

Young Professional of the Year – Cyril Jefferson of Communities in School

President’s Award – Christi Barbour & Christi Spangle of Barbour Spangle Design

Volunteer of the Year – Eric Abeles, 2019 Co-Chair of Leadership High Point

Vision Investor of the Year – Mark A. Norcross of X8 Aviation

Distinguished Citizen of the Year – Robert G. Culp III

 

Tire Lifting Solution Case Study

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Material Handling Need

Aircraft Tire/Wheel shop activities require significant handling of large aircraft tires and rims weighing up to several hundred pounds.  Handling these assets by manual means/methods had resulted in several serious injuries, culminating in lost workdays and long-term medical impact on shop personnel and worker well-being.

Original Process:  Two to Three operators required to lift C5 aircraft tire from pallet position, stacked up to four(4) levels high and onto rim assembly.  Assembly was then lifted from a horizontal position to vertical to be rolled into a rack staging area.

Tire Lift weight: 400 pounds+

Tire Size:  44”-56” outside diameter(OD), 17”-20” width

Air Power Solution

Air Power’s solution consisting of aluminum overhead rail, bridge crane to suspend one (1) manipulator for the tire lift process, and one (1) bridge to suspend a pneumatic hoist for the F15 Rim process for the original C5 aircraft application. The C5 Solution was installed in 2013.

Due to the increase in the C130 aircraft process requirements, Air Power was contacted to offer another solution for the C130 unit in September 2015.

An additional bridge was added to allow processing for the larger C130 tire application (tires over 400lbs) to allow pickup, positioning, and processing of these components.

Air Power Inc provided a TurnKey solution for both C5 and C130 tire applications.

 

Results

Implementation will reduce injuries, enhance efficiency, improve quality and ergonomics in the support of the warfighter mission.

“An effective and user-friendly solution that was way overdue” –Bobby Munda, WRAFB 402MXE

“Awesome, absolutely awesome!” –Candace Lauderdale, Safety Specialists, WRAFB

Original Pick Up Method Pick Up Solution Original Set Down Method Tire Set Down Solution

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Tire Lifting Solution Case Study

QX Drives Quality

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Challenge

In order to distinguish themselves within the marketplace the current method of assembly: non shut-off impacts, clutch tools, and hand wrenches, was not satisfactory. Examination by Quality Control Engineers revealed that some critical fasteners were working themselves loose during shipment and installation. Implementing an accurate solution to provide operator feedback and data collection was deemed necessary.

Air Power Solution

In partnership with the customer, Air Power implemented an Ingersoll Rand QX Precision Fastening System. This hand held, battery operated, solution provided a much more accurate final torque, while providing the operators with tightening status feedback, actual torque values, and 1,200 rundowns of tightening data for manual upload and review.

 

Download PDF

Download a PDF of the full case study.

Ingersoll Rand TubeNut Operating Options

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IR TubeNut Operating Options

 

In this video, Technical Specialist James Stanley shows the operating options of the Ingersoll Rand Right Angle w/ TubeNut attachment. Contact Air Power to learn more about this solution.

Ingersoll Rand Advanced Tightening System

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Air Power, Inc. presents a demonstration of Ingersoll Rand’s Advanced Tightening System by Kyle Crawford

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