Tool and mold making in transition: EVOMECS as the key to the digital revolution at Henkel Modellbau

EVOMECS
Hello, Marco. Thank you very much for taking the time for this interview. Could you please briefly introduce yourself and give us an overview of your role at Henkel Modellbau and briefly introduce the company?

Marco Scheffel
Good afternoon, Niklas. My name is Marco Scheffel, and I'm head of production at Henkel Modellbau. I have been with the company for 26 years now. We are a medium-sized tool and mold making company that offers extensive contract manufacturing services in addition to our own production of tools and molds. Our expertise covers a wide range of products/materials and industries, which makes our product portfolio particularly diverse.

EVOMECS
Thank you for the introduction. Now I would like to know why Henkel Modellbau decided to introduce the EVOMECS digitization system.

Marco Scheffel
This decision was based on the variety of components we produce and the corresponding complexity of our manufacturing processes. Our aim was to bring more transparency to the tool world, minimize set-up costs and make operating resources globally usable. We also want to increase machine utilization. The openness of the EVOMECS system enables us to respond flexibly to our individual requirements with standard software. In this way, we can use a standard product that is universally valid to develop customized solutions that are perfectly tailored to our process landscape.

EVOMECS
How has the collaboration with EVOMECS been so far?

Marco Scheffel
The collaboration with EVOMECS has been extremely positive right from the start. The diversity of the topics we deal with requires a large number of different interfaces and connections, and it is precisely the handling of these complex issues that we really appreciate about working with EVOMECS.

EVOMECS
How did the implementation phase go and were there any specific challenges that had to be overcome?

Marco Scheffel
The main challenge was to use a CAM database as a master database and to integrate it into another CAM database via EVOMECS. This complex task required close cooperation between our team and EVOMECS. The connection to our ERP system is still in progress, but the results so far are promising. The process also includes data feedback to ensure seamless integration between the manufacturing level and the corporate management level, including actual machine times. Although there is still work to be done, with the support from Evomecs we have embarked on a successful journey and feel well supported.

EVOMECS
Have you already had initial successes or immediate benefits from the EVOMECS system?

Marco Scheffel
Definitely. The encapsulation of responsibilities between tool presetting and machine operation has directly increased machine utilization. In addition, the provision and processing of information has become faster and more efficient.

EVOMECS
What was the feedback from employees on the new system?

Marco Scheffel
Initially there was a "moment of shock", as the way of working has changed fundamentally. After getting used to it, however, the feedback was consistently positive, as employees realized that the system supported them in their daily work and took over repetitive tasks. Acceptance increased as the advantages of the system in terms of efficiency and support in work processes became clear.

EVOMECS
What are the plans for the further integration and use of the EVOMECS system?

Marco Scheffel
At the same time as integrating further machines, we are currently working intensively on developing the ERP interface to enable seamless data transfer. The connection of the Gühring cabinet in tool presetting will play an important role in the further course of the project.

EVOMECS
Thank you very much for the interview. Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Marco Scheffel
Finally, I would like to emphasize that the introduction of EVOMECS not only means technological progress, but above all a positive change in the way we work together as a team. Investing in innovative solutions not only pays off in more efficient processes, but also strengthens team spirit and employee motivation. In an ever-changing manufacturing landscape, a willingness to digitize and collaborate is crucial to a company's long-term success. We have the feeling that we have found the right partner at our side in EVOMECS.