Measuring tool prepared to the millimetre
When Volvo Aero needed to procure an advanced new measuring machine, it called on Coor for assistance. While Volvo Aero concentrated on assessing the machine’s function and performance, Coor focused on securing installation and operational reliability. The clear allocation of responsibility was a success factor in the project, and has now become a template for future procurements.
When Volvo Aero started the process of procuring a new machine for measuring large areas, Coor was involved from the very beginning. Coor adopted the role of expert, was responsible for ensuring the supplier fulfilled Volvo Aero’s technical specifications, adapted the premises for the machine and installed the machine itself.
“Our role was to help Volvo Aero ensure they got the machine they needed, in this case an advanced piece of measuring equipment. We also had to make sure operational reliability could be guaranteed for 20 years,” says Lars Johansson at Coor in Trollhättan.
The assignment also entailed adapting the service organisation and establishing tools for troubleshooting.
“This meant that Volvo Aero could concentrate fully on the machine’s function and role in the delivery process,” Lars Johansson continues.
Thorough testing
Once the machine type and manufacturer had been decided on, Coor and Volvo visited the supplier. Function and acceptance tests were run on the chosen machine to check that it met Volvo Aero’s requirements.
“It was important to identify any shortcomings in the delivery as early on as possible, as remedying any faults once the machine is at Volvo Aero is both costly and time consuming. That’s why it was so important to scrutinise the machine in detail while it was still with the supplier.”
Preparation and transfer
Both the machine transport from Germany to Sweden and installation at the Trollhättan plant were carefully planned to ensure optimum safety and efficiency. Responsibility for the preparations was delegated to Coor.
“A machine like this isn’t something you just slot into position; the factory floor and adjacent premises have to be specially adapted. For example, the foundation the machine was to stand on was a critical issue. It had to be completely stable and free of vibration. The solution was a special floating plate foundation that was recessed into the floor.”
A successful collaboration
For its part, Volvo Aero is very pleased with how the project went.
“We got the machine in position in time, despite the tight deadlines. The clear allocation of responsibility was definitely a success factor as both parties knew exactly what was expected. The project has become something of a template for similar projects in the future,” says Thomas Ellström, head of component production at Volvo Aero.