Just over ten years ago, L&R Precision Machining and Manufacturing took the initiative and invested in a revolutionary system that has proven itself a highly valuable investment time and again. The Fastems Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) has greatly improved production efficiency and speed of delivery for our repeat customers, among other cost-saving benefits.
Fastems FMS: Cutting-Edge Technology For Flexible Manufacturing
Fastems’ flexibility is what drew us to the manufacturing marvel in the first place. Powered by the latest advanced technology, it’s capable of storing and running multiple jobs simultaneously and can rapidly adjust scheduling to ramp up or down production as required. This alone allows us to provide just-in-time delivery on repeat orders.
Our state-of-the-art Fastems FMS, capable of reaching tight tolerances in exotic metals, is currently outfitted with 3 Okuma multi-axis horizontal machining centers with 146 capacity tool changers. With built-in inspection capabilities, two loading stations, and a 2-level pallet storage system with 52 pallet capacity this powerhouse is capable of running lights out, ensuring prompt delivery of high-volume orders.
What a Decade of Fastems Operation Has Taught Us
As a hometown job shop, investing in the Fastems FMS was a risk we have no regrets about taking. Since incorporating the flexible manufacturing system into our Lynchburg, VA facility, we have experienced firsthand the revolutionary processes that have allowed us to streamline production and reduce costs for our customers without reducing quality.
We invested in the Fastems system to expand our production capabilities allowing us to take on more jobs and continue to grow. However, over the years we have discovered that this manufacturing powerhouse provided more than just expanded capacity, but produced long-reaching benefits.
While the Fastems FMS is capable of both high and low-volume production, we discovered its sweet spot–repeat low to medium production volumes meet the needs of our customers who don’t have extensive storage facilities and want to take advantage of bulk order pricing. Its adaptability ensures quicker lead times that can accommodate changes in scheduling and quantities. This allows us to meet just-in-time production requirements for several clients simultaneously while providing consistent pricing on varying quantities.
Inspired L&R To Further Improve Our Quality Standards
Introducing the Fastems Flexible Manufacturing System spurred us to seek further growth by amping up our quality management system. This innovative system provided ample opportunities to enhance our quality processes, especially with its robust built-in inspection capabilities. The following year we upgraded our entire quality control system and earned our ISO 9001:2015/AS9100D certification, allowing us to expand into the demanding aerospace and defense industries.
Fastems FMS’s Growth Potential
Continuous improvement is a way of life at L&R Precision Machining and Manufacturing and our Fastems system is designed with growth in mind. It has room for up to 6 additional machining centers and 2 more load stations with the ability to integrate automation and robotic processes, paving the way for our continued growth.
L&R is eager to put our Fastems FMS through its paces and run it at full capacity to provide our customers with even greater value. Contact us today to get your project started.
