Pulling it all Together QLP Machinery also utilizes AutoCAD r14 and Mechanical Desktop from AutoDesk in their engineering department. Mechanical Desktop is a PC-based 3D modeling software with parametric solid modeling, surface modeling, assembly modeling, and drafting capabilities. Having the ability to edit the designs and also to design the special fixtures required to produce the parts is key to productivity. The time required to take a part from drawing to finished part has been greatly reduced, which has eliminated machine stoppages caused by the operators having to wait for part programs. The majority of the parts produced at QLP are machined out of aluminum that is then nickel-plated.
Every single part receives some sort of finishing process, such as nickel-plating or anodizing.
Just a scratch will mean that a part becomes scrap. Costs from scrap can add up quickly, especially if the part has already been nickel-plated. QLP Machinery has not only reduced costs from scrap and machine stoppages, but has increased their machining capabilities at the same time. To maintain high levels of quality, QLP has set up stringent inspection procedures. Machine operators are responsible for inspecting key dimensions of subsequent parts off the machine.