Top 3 Challenges Manufacturers Face and the Solutions for Boosting Efficiency

In our last blog, we talked about when electrical safety testing is important during product development. Now, we’re focusing on manufacturing, where improving processes, quality, and efficiency is key to success. Manufacturing plays a huge role in how well a company performs, and it needs to run smoothly while keeping high-quality standards.

Based on over 85 years of experience, we’ve identified three main challenges manufacturers face and how Associated Research can help solve them.

1. Achieving Efficiency in Production

In today’s fast-paced world, manufacturers need to maximize speed and accuracy, whether they are fully automated, semi-automated, or using manual processes. This is where our HypotULTRA® and Hypot® electrical safety testers can make a big difference. They help improve product quality and reduce waste.

Here’s how our testers help make production better:

  • Multiple Tests in One Device: The testers combine hipot, insulation resistance, and ground bond testing in one machine. This saves time and cuts costs by reducing the need to switch between different devices.
  • Built-in Barcode Interface: With built-in barcode scanning, operators scan and run tests without needing a computer. This helps reduce errors and speeds up production.
  • Built-in Memory: The testers can store up to 100,000 test results in the internal memory or even more on an external USB drive (depending on the size of the USB). This allows manufacturers to keep a complete history of their production without needing a computer.
  • Multi-Point Testing: For complex applications, such as medical devices and batteries, multi-point testing is often required. The HypotULTRA® with optional 8 port internal scanner (option 01) or SC 6540 Multiplexer, operators only need to connect leads once, and the tester automatically cycles through each testing point. This makes testing faster and reduces mistakes.

Streamline Operations and Save Money
Efficient production requires trained staff who know how to reduce errors and costs. Especially for electrical safety testing where it handles high electric voltages. Manufacturers leverages our application consulting services help keep operators up to date on safety standards and best practices. Most importantly, ensure work areas are safe to avoid fines, litigation, and prevent injury.

2. Real-Time Monitoring and Data Analysis for Better Quality Control

By using data to analyze test results, manufacturers can quickly spot potential quality problems during production. This helps prevent large batches of defective products. Our Withstand® software gives full control of all Associated Research instruments and creates detailed reports for each device. This leads to faster decisions and fewer production issues.

For companies looking to customize their testing systems, we also offer IVI and LabVIEW drivers for easy integration and testing optimization.

3. Regular Calibration and Maintenance for Stability and Compliance

Keeping testing equipment accurate and stable is essential for preventing delays and ensuring reliable test results. Regular calibration and maintenance are crucial.

Here are two common challenges manufacturers face:

  • Calibration Confusion: Some manufacturers confuse calibration verification with accredited calibration. Calibration verification only checks if the readings are within the range but doesn’t fix problems. Accredited calibration ensures accuracy by making adjustments if needed, reducing the risk of production failures.
  • Long Calibration Times: Sending equipment to third-party labs for calibration can take a long time and add costs. Some labs may not calibrate the full product and take too long to return the equipment for right calibration.

As an ISO 17025 Accredited Laboratory, we provide full-scope calibration, verification, and adjustments for all Associated Research products within just five business days. We also provide an extended warranty for customers who perform annual calibration, ensuring equipment stays reliable.

 

Also, worth the note

4. Low Total Cost of Ownership

Equipment is an important part of the production line. Often, electrical equipment breaks down right after the warranty ends, which can lead to costly repairs. Associated Research products come with a 5-year warranty to help lower these costs. Instead of spending money on repairs, manufacturers can use their budget for our yearly calibration service, which also adds one more year to the warranty. Plus, if the equipment does break, our flat-rate repair service will fix it and get it back to you within five days, so it’s ready to use again quickly.

 

Conclusion: Achieving Success with Associated Research

With over 85 years of experience, we understand how important manufacturing is to business success. Our products deliver the accuracy, efficiency, and quality needed to improve production, and our services help ensure your production line meets your business goals.

Contact our sales team today to learn how Associated Research can help you get the best results from your production floor.