Optimization of the process of leveling steel plates, using reengineering tools, proposing the installation of brand grinding material, in a steel maquiladora, (Apodaca, Nuevo León, México)

Abstract

Within the state of Nuevo León in the city of Apodaca, it is common to find steel machining where steel plates up to ¾" thick are produced. In the steel bending process, not all of the finished product fully comply with the quality standards requested by customers, due to, among other factors, brands of origin, strapping marks, handling in the leveling process, contact with other impact surfaces and the leveling itself. The objective of this study is to optimize the process of leveling steel plates, using reengineering tools, proposing the installation of brand rectifying material, in a maquiladora in Apodaca, Nuevo León, México. The application of a total quality management methodology is proposed to reduce various research tools were used, among which are the observation of the process, the use of documentary research and bibliography, interviews with clients and operating personnel, technical meetings with groups of experts in the operating process, technicians, administrators, and management groups and shareholders, and lastly, case studies of success. The final results, as can be seen throughout this investigation, are a set of proposals to improve the process and meet production standards. Some of the proposals are: adaptation of a roller with polypropylene bristles that allows cleaning prior to the leveling process, air injection of instruments prior to entering the leveler to remove dust from the steel plates and thus preserve the time of life of the leveling machine and reduce the time of unscheduled stoppages. 

Keywords: metallurgy, optimization, leveling, productivity, quality.