Machine audits are valuable tools that focus on ensuring machines run at peak performance. This is achieved by performing a gap analysis on machinery, which helps to define recommended actions that will restore machinery back to its 'as-shipped' condition.

The injection molding machine (IMM) audit consists of a technical evaluation. A predictive audit is also conducted to detect possible failure sources that can affect machine reliability.

Audit checkpoints include:

• Safety issues (verification of safety interlocks, all applicable safety bulletins examined)
• System visual inspection (hydraulic/water/air leakage, hoses, etc.)
• Control measurements (voltages, hydraulic pressures, temperatures, levels, etc.)
• System level check and platen parallelism inspection
• Review of machine events (analysis of cycle interruptions/alarms)
• Repeatability (analysis of machine data logging)
• Upgrades installation check (implementation verification)
• Energy measurement and consumption
• Oil particle analysis (contamination level per ISO standard 4406)
• Thermographic analysis (power pack/electrical panels)

A final report is delivered within a few weeks from the initial IMM audit visit. The report includes:

• Complete summary of system issues and findings
• Husky’s recommendations for immediate, medium and long-term solutions
• An associated cost evaluation for the advised corrective actions and improvement opportunities
• Risk assessment chart detailing a machine’s low, medium, and high risk issues with respect to safety, downtime and reduced performance