Driving Efficiency at Able Tool Corporation with 1factory

At 1factory, we value connecting with our customers, learning how they use our platform, and appreciate the feedback that drives ongoing improvements for greater business process efficiency.

A shining example of this is our partnership with Able Tool Corporation, which embarked on a unique journey with 1factory. Initially, they used our platform as a supplier to a Major Aerospace OEM, using our Supplier Collaboration Portal to seamlessly share plans, FAIs, and ongoing production inspection data directly with the OEM. What's remarkable is that after just a brief training session on the supplier portal, Able Tool recognized the vast potential of 1factory. They decided to adopt it as their internal Quality Control software, transforming their manufacturing operations.

In our latest article, we sat down with Paul Hayes, President of Able Tool Corporation, to delve into their journey and explore how 1factory has made their processes more efficient.

Question #1: Paul, could you provide some insights into Able Tool Corporation and what distinguishes your organization from others in the industry?

Paul Hayes: Paul Hayes: Absolutely, Able Tool Corporation stands as a respected contract manufacturer, specializing in the production of complex machined parts and assemblies across a diverse spectrum of industries. We differentiate ourselves, within the realm of machining, through two avenues:

1. Size: Our significant advantage lies in the substantial size of our machinery. We utilize large 4-axis horizontal mills, boasting work envelopes of up to 4 meters by 3 meters x 2.5 meters. This impressive capacity sets Able Tool apart from the competition and enables us to undertake substantial projects with ease.
2. Complexity: In addition to our impressive equipment size, we are equipped with machining centers and mill/turns, with work envelopes stretching up to 2.1 meters by 1 meter by 0.76 meter. We utilize CAD/CAM to leverage 4- and 5-axis capabilities as well as wire EDM and 3D printing, allowing us to craft highly intricate and complex shapes with precision and accuracy.

Furthermore, our capabilities extend to include VTL (Vertical Turret Lathe) operations with capacities of up to 48 inches in diameter and 30 inches in height. We also have a 16-inch Wire EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) machine that caters to unique and specialized customer requirements.

Question #2: What did quality control at Able Tool look like before 1factory?

Paul Hayes: Prior to the implementation of 1factory, our quality control procedures were meticulously documented, reflecting our commitment to quality assurance. However, we also recognized the existence of significant inefficiencies within our existing processes. This awareness prompted us to explore opportunities for enhancement and optimization.

Question #3: What drove your decision to embrace a digital quality control system such as 1factory?

Paul Hayes: Our goal has consistently been to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of our First Article Inspections (FAIs) generation and tracking process. Our introduction to 1factory came through one of our customers who was already utilizing 1factory to monitor their supply chain quality via the 1factory supplier portal. During the training phase, it became evident to us that 1factory offered substantial benefits. We made the strategic decision to not only integrate it for our FAIs but also extend its application to various other aspects of our operations.

Question #4: In what ways has 1factory revolutionized and enhanced your quality control procedures?

Paul Hayes: 1factory has been a game-changer for us. It has enabled us to balloon prints with a click of a button, construct inspection plans, and produce customer reports, generating AS9102’s, all in a fraction of the time compared to our previous methods we were using.

Question #5: Which specific features of 1factory have resonated most with your team and delivered the greatest value to your operations?

Paul Hayes: We have realized significant savings in the preparation of shop floor paperwork and inspection plans. Additionally, the ability to promptly access and review inspection data has not only saved us considerable time and effort but has also notably streamlined and enhanced the efficiency of our operations.

Question #7: Would you recommend 1factory to other companies in your industry or beyond?

Paul Hayes: Absolutely. In fact, we've already introduced 1factory to some of our largest customers, and they were highly impressed with the results. It's a tool that has the potential to benefit a wide range of companies seeking to enhance their quality control processes.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Paul and the Able Tool Corporation team for generously sharing their valuable experiences with 1factory. We eagerly anticipate and look forward to ongoing collaboration and further success together!