The Benefits of Smart Tools

Smart tools contain advanced technology and offer some dramatic benefits to assembly lines where time and quality-control are critical, such as electronics, appliances and motor vehicle assembly. These tools can transform your work process, save time and money, ensure consistency, and greatly improve quality. In this article, we’ll look at these benefits and explain why it might make sense for your company to upgrade to smart tools.

The Problem with Traditional Tools

The biggest problem with traditional tools is that too many decisions are left up to the operator. In precision fastening, assembly, and manufacturing operations, you require exact torque specifications. If your process is using traditional tools, you’re likely to get slightly different results with each operator.

While operator training can help improve quality, this typically requires the operator to slow down to ensure precise specs are being met.

Many cross-threading or tightening errors will likely go unnoticed at first, requiring additional quality checks and rework. These errors also increase scrap and material costs and can cause production disruptions and even recalls.

Setup is an inherent challenge for traditional tools. Individual stations may require different tools to meet precise torque specifications. This increases the chance of operator error, especially if one operator is moving from one tool to another. Each tool will likely need to be manually configured which takes a lot of setup time.

Ingersoll Rand’s smart tools like the IQi Series addresses these problems head-on. This cutting-edge technology will transform your production process leading to improved quality, faster setup, increased efficiency, an optimized process, reduced rework and downtime, and a healthy cost of ownership.

Overcoming Challenges in Transitioning to Smart Tools

While any new tool or technology requires some education, smart tools work very similarly to traditional tools. They just have additional features and functionality that provide big benefits. The learning curve is small and manageable. Proper training and support will ensure a smooth adoption process. Training is available by Hampton and distributors which includes in-field support and education in fastening theory.

Similarly, the cost of smart tools is lower than people expect. When you look at the long-term savings (improved efficiencies, reduced downtime, lower scrap and material costs, reduction of errors, rework and potential recalls) and overall operational improvements, the cost of smart tools is money well-spent.

Companies who have adopted smart tools have provided positive feedback stating that the tools were easy to setup, their operators adapted quickly, and they saw impressive operational improvements with the new tools.

Why Smart Tools are a Smart Choice Right Now

Smart tools are a wise decision for companies today. By investing in smart tools now, you’re helping to future-proof your business by aligning with the future of manufacturing and supporting Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Because they collect data to improve traceability, smart tools can reduce your liability, protect against compliance issues, and reduce your legal risks.

Best of all, smart tools like the IQi Series can transform your assembly process by boosting your efficiency and improving overall quality. Smart tools deliver more precise, accurate fastening which will contribute to better product quality and reliability for years to come.