News

Expanding Horizons: Transforming Team 1 Plastics’ Metrology Lab

Team 1 Plastics has always been at the forefront of innovation and quality control.
To maintain this edge, we recently expanded our metrology lab. This expansion aims to enhance capabilities, streamline workflows, and provide a more organized and efficient workspace.

BACKGROUND and MOTIVATION

Engineering Specialists Sandi Hodge and Tim Kilcher in the newly expanded lab.

The decision to expand the metrology lab was driven by the need for a more functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace. As Dave Sanford, Plant Manager, explained, “The older lab style was cramped and cluttered, with a lot of money invested in equipment, but it didn’t provide us the chance to be a ‘showcase’ for Team 1.”

Additionally, the old lab’s lack of storage space and organization limited our ability to effectively demonstrate our capabilities to customers and other visitors. With our customer base growing and demand increasing, significant upgrades were needed to meet these new challenges and support future growth.

PLANNING and EXECUTION

Planning for the expansion began in late Q2 2024, with initial discussions, rough ideas, and budget allocations. By July 2024, the budget was set, and the project moved forward towards the end of the year. The timeline was crucial, considering the lab’s busy schedule. “I challenged the Metrology Team to investigate needs and provide a proposed layout of the lab, and they did an excellent job,” noted Dave Seedorf, Engineering Manager.  “We kicked off the project at the right time, which was slow around the holidays, and managed to stay on schedule despite some minor hold-ups.” Safeway Rigging, led by Brent Hamilton, facilitated the CMM moves with flexibility and efficiency, getting it done quickly. The project was completed at the beginning of February.

Team 1 Plastics Engineering Specialist, Tim Kilcher played a key role in the layout planning.  He carefully measured the equipment and the space to ensure optimal placement of metrology instruments and tools, maximizing accessibility and functionality. “High-usage equipment was centrally located, while less frequently used items were stored in easily accessible areas,” explained Tim. “Adequate space was allocated for future equipment acquisitions, ensuring the lab could accommodate technological advancements without significant layout modifications.”

CHANGES, ADDITIONS, and BENEFITS

The expanded metrology lab now boasts several upgrades that enhance its functionality and organization:

New workstation tables, shelving, and flooring:
These additions provide more room and better organization, leading to an improved workflow and more efficient storage for equipment and parts. The new layout creates a more spacious and visually appealing environment, making it easier for employees to keep the lab tidy and organized.

“Tim did a fantastic job measuring the equipment and the space we’d have to fill. He also found the new tables and desk. Dave wanted things to match and as you can see, it matches wonderfully. The new spacious metrology lab is a joy to work in and at least for me, gives me a reason to keep it looking nice.”   – Sandi Hodge, Engineering Specialist

EXPANSION PROJECT SLIDESHOW

Watch the expansion of the metrology lab from start to finish, showing key stages of transformation.

REFLECTION and ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Reflecting on the expansion process, the team at Team 1 Plastics learned the importance of efficiently utilizing available space. Several key contributors played crucial roles in the project’s success. Jade Collins and Jimmy Collins from Collins Design/Build Inc. in Clark Lake, MI, were instrumental in the design and execution. Their expertise ensured that the project ran smoothly with minimal oversight.

Tim Kilcher, Engineering Specialist, emphasized, “Metrology plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and quality of our products and processes. With this expansion, we aim to further elevate our capabilities and deliver even greater value to our operations and customers.”

FINAL THOUGHTS

“This continues our expansion and capabilities in our Engineering and Metrology teams,” said Co-Owners Craig Carrel and Gary Grigowski. “It really will allow us to service our customers at the highest level possible.”  Expanding the Metrology lab marks a significant milestone for Team 1 Plastics. The improved capabilities and enhanced layout will benefit both the company and its customers, ensuring continued growth and innovation.

Special thanks to everyone involved in making this project a success!