Long-term partnering for success: a teamwork approach for positive results

Texas Instruments LMOS and Electroglas have joined forces to develop a method for improving quality and reliability for some older-vintage equipment. The two companies, working together, have achieved a 500% improvement in equipment reliability. A system was developed which provided a multipurpose database that could be used by both companies to establish a quantitative starting point for their project. Goals were set based on the gathered data. The database provided a means for problem analysis and reliability improvement tracking. A methodical approach consisting of the following was implemented: technical training, operator training, procedure/specification and standardization, spare parts inventory requirements, a list of minimum tools required to provide proper maintenance, and documentation updates. The teamwork approach allowed Electroglas to pass both fiscal and technical ownership of the equipment to Texas Instruments, while building the foundation for a long-term program of communications exchange for specialized support as required