Preactor has the Capacity for demanding customers

A Preactor 200 graphical finite scheduling tool has now been installed by Kenard Engineering of Dartford, Kent to help it achieve maximum efficiency from its machine tool capability. Kenard Engineering manufactures high added value products for the aerospace and telecommunications industries, has been trading for almost 35 years and employs some 65 staff.

"The products we make vary enormously, which complicates the process," says Keith Ellis of Kenard Engineering. "But because Preactor is essentially a highly sophisticated interactive electronic planning board, we're able to maintain tight control of our manufacturing operation and optimise the balance between demand and capacity."

Kenard Engineering has written its own software database called KIDS (Kenard In-Data Collection System) which produces job lists. Every machine tool has its own PC, networked to this database, which generates drawings and all the information an operator needs to do the job.

"This means the right jobs are done in the right order," continues Keith Ellis. "Scheduling is done to the customer's requirement and we can keep customers informed of progress. The result is we get the best performance from our machine tool capability, with improved efficiencies, better customer service and reduced production costs."

Preactor offers many advantages over conventional spreadsheets and MRP software. It can deal with the complexities of a wide range of manufacturing systems, it is easy to set up and use, and it can be installed at a very competitive cost. Preactor also has the capacity to grow as the manufacturing company grows - it could be installed at entry level, for example, then upgraded as and when required.

Developed by Preactor International, the very latest addition to the system is a new data tracking solution which automatically updates Preactor with data collected from barcode scanners and similar equipment. The current progress of operations and orders can then be displayed instantaneously, avoiding the delays normally caused by having to collect and collate all the necessary information.

The new data tracking solution also allows users to monitor the current status of orders and operations by displaying a Gantt chart comparing what was planned against what actually happened. Finally, the new data tracking solution includes the facility to print out barcodes on route cards and other shop floor documentation.