In the second part of our blog series on basic control functionality, we will explore process monitoring, emergency stop and safety functions, and different control options.

Most of us in manufacturing know that having your ISO 9001 certification is an essential part of running a competitive business. ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) has done an excellent job of creating universal standards that promote quality management and assurance on a global scale. What most of us may not know, per the ISO website (www.iso.org), having a quality management system can not only help improve performance but also act as a sound basis for continuous and sustainability improvement initiatives. Preparing for certification and continuing certification requires a little extra work. But with some practical strategies and good habits, it becomes routine and a path you will not regret incorporating into your process. In this blog, we’ll highlight a few things we do at Davis-Standard to support ISO certification efforts and re-certification readiness. First, let’s remind ourselves of a few reasons ISO certification is so important. Here a few key benefits from a performance perspective: Demonstrated commitment to meeting an international standard of excellence for quality Error reduction, resulting in reduced waste Increased business; both new and existing More efficient delivery of products Improved environmental performance of your supply chain Compliance with legislation and regulations As for your employees, the ISO process is a valuable tool in creating dynamic team environments. Advantages include improved team communication, routine risk assessment, ongoing promotion of quality standards, safer workspaces, adequately resourced and managed responsibilities, ongoing training opportunities and more. Continual business improvement and personal employee growth go hand-in-hand, and ISO certification affirms that perspective. If you are in the process of getting ready for certification, here are our top six suggestions: (1) Develop a vision and quality statement (2) Host a kick-off meeting with senior leadership outlining high-level goals such as improving customer satisfaction, decreased rework costs, improved process efficiency, mitigation

Maximizing the productivity, versatility and profitability of an extrusion coating and laminating line is the goal of every flexible packaging film producer. In this blog, we will cover some engineering considerations with regard to precision tension control, web spreading and web guidance.

Wear and tear on your slitter rewinder is inevitable. In this blog, we’ve put together a modified list of common items that need your attention to improve productivity, processing, safety and profitability.

Incorporating reclaim materials into existing and new products is not only good for the environment, but it may be financially prudent for your operation. In this blog, we’ll discuss opportunities in reclaim markets as well as equipment needed to support reclaim applications in direct sheet extrusion.