Mountz Torque Control System Optimizes Medical Device Manufacturing

An innovative world leader in medical devices manufacturing was ramping up production on a new ultrasound instrument but was struggling to optimize their new manufacturing process. Building this new piece of equipment involved a variety of different torque requirements. In the initial assembly, workers were using seven different drivers due to the various specs of the electronic and mechanical components in the device. The complexity of the assembly also involved a variety of required speeds, angles, and fastener/assembly delicacy.

This case study describes a torque control system with our customer, a leading international Medical Device manufacturing company. The torque tool solution was deployed at a North America site to increase productivity and improve process control for manufacturing complex imaging devices and support their move from development to full-scale production.

The Challenges for the Sophisticated Medical Device Production Line

• Multiple torque requirements
• Risk of cross-threading 
• Risk over-tightening
• Very complex assembly requiring multiple tools
• Issues with quality assurance due to required speeds, angles and fastener delicacy

Torque Solutions Applied

• Single control torque tool system replaced 7 tools
• A power tool with the Soft-start feature reduced the risk of cross-threading and over-tightening.
• Full traceability
• Reduced human interaction and error
• Real-time data for rapid decision making

Having better control of the manufacturing process with a single torque fastening system with less need for multiple works stations, tools, and operators, not only frees up human resources and reduces the risk of human error, but also increases quality and reduces re-work. 

The digital screwdriver system features built-in error-proofing data and screw counter. Visibility reduces delays and bottlenecks in the production line and optimizes cycle times. By reducing cycle times, enhancing the quality and increasing production consistency, the medical device manufacturer successfully optimized their new manufacturing process.
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