So we're running programs from a vendor that used to be cutting these parts for us. The forgings are real expensive so they have built into the program a "Qualifying Cut" for every tool that is used. So each tool will make a cut on a the face and on the OD, stop, then have you measure to verify it's cutting as it should. I kind of like this as a safety feature as it's real hard to mess up a part this way but it's very time consuming for operators. Plus you're opening and closing the door many times before you even get to run the part. Not a huge deal but there must be a better way. I'm thinking of reprogramming the whole thing for a variety of reason but one thing I'd like to improve upon is these qualifying cuts. I'm thinking machining steps all once would keep all the current functionality of what was being done but only necessitate opening the door once. That, or get rid of it entirely and just have each tool stop before the finish pass/spring cut and have the operator measure then. I know that would work but the redundancy of the current way has saved the operators at least a couple times thus far.
Looking to hear what others have done in the past for ideas.
Thanks!