3 Ways Multitasking Can Better Position Your Business

All industries and businesses feel the effects of changing market conditions – and machine shops are no exception. With the continued increase in globalization, technology innovations, and even new industry emergences, changes can be gradual or seem to take hold overnight, but one thing is constant – it can be viewed as an exciting time for job shops that are prepared and equipped.

Seeking out flexible technology

Some of the most versatile machine tools available in today’s market are found within the multitasking category. Just as the name states, multitasking machine tools allow for numerous processes to take place within one machine as opposed to multiple set-ups or machine tools within a sequence. Those processes can include cutting, turning, milling, surfacing, drilling, tapping, hobbing, and more – which allows for extreme flexibility in creating a variety of parts. Machine shops of all sizes can adapt to changing market trends and demands by utilizing the many advantages of multitasking machines.

Let’s consider 3 key points that support this fact.

1) The value of multitasking machines cannot be ignored

Although sometimes considered a more costly investment, multitasking machines can quickly recover the upfront capital expenditure and greatly improve intangible resources such as process times. Five advantages of a multitasking machine tool include:

• Reduction in setup time. On a multitasking machine, parts are machined within a single cycle which means no need to perform multiple setups, change tooling, adapt programs, or move the physical part between processes.
• Increased spindle utilization. Because a multitasking machine eliminates the need to move the part between machine tools, this allows for more active cutting time.
• Improved accuracy and reduction of errors. Realizing that the most consistent process is one that reduces the number of set-ups and production steps, multitasking machines vastly reduce the risk of human error and in turn reduce downtime in production.
• Decreases total cost of ownership. Reducing manufacturing to a single multitasking machine will require fewer fixtures, tooling, and even less labor hours due to fewer setups. Also, less money spent in routine maintenance.
• Realizing a gain in shop floor space. By condensing multiple machining operations into a single machine, the need for multiple machine tools to produce a single part is no longer required – freeing up valuable shop floor real estate.

When market conditions waiver, the value of multitasking machines can’t be ignored. They consistently bring flexibility to the production process, decrease overhead expenses, increase shop floor availability, and reduce maintenance and operational expenses – all important factors that contribute to shop floor profitability and the ability to thrive during economic booms or survive during uncertainties.

2) Multitasking machine tools provide the ability to adapt, shift, and diversify

It’s fantastic to be positioned within a single niche, especially when that industry or business sector is profitable. History, however, continues to show that changing market conditions and countless other factors such as government regulations, offshoring, supply and demand, or global pandemics (who saw that coming?) can quickly disrupt a once-thriving business sector. One of the larger advantages of owning and operating multitasking machine tools is the ability to adapt, shift, and diversify as needed. The combined capabilities of multitasking machines can open a world of possibilities regardless of shop size or industry. The opportunities afforded to machine shops that operate multitasking machines are countless, ranging from simple production parts to complex, high-precision parts. Often, multitasking machining will allow for a shop to pursue new customers and opportunities within industries outside of their norm – because they are equipped to do so.

3) Strengthen your competitive edge with multitasking machines

One of the largest changes within the last few decades is the movement from a continental to a global manufacturing economy. This dynamic has created increased pressure on the requirement to differentiate. A shop’s willingness to embrace productivity-enhancing technologies, such as multitasking, will champion growth opportunities and continue to differentiate them from even the closest competitors. And keep in mind that although multitasking machines are an incredible investment, this product category can be further enhanced by tapping into scalable technology platforms and options like automation systems, machine monitoring software, or a collision avoidance system that can accelerate the performance of these machines to the next level.

Partnering with Your Machine Tool Manufacturer

In the past, multitasking has been synonymous with terms like productivity, proficiency, and effectiveness – now it can be better defined as flexibility, diversity, and opportunity. If you think your shop could benefit from the three undeniable advantages of a multitasking machine, but you’re not sure where to start, contact your local Okuma distributor today. Our team can provide clarity as to what multitasking functions will guarantee the most out of your machine.