Design and Technology – Quantity production | e-Consult

Advantages of using a jig and former system:

• Accuracy and Repeatability: Jigs and former systems ensure consistent and accurate placement of components during manufacturing, leading to high dimensional accuracy. This is crucial for identical parts.
• Increased Production Speed: Automated or semi-automated jig and former systems can significantly speed up the manufacturing process compared to manual methods.
• Reduced Labour Costs: Automation reduces the need for manual labour, leading to lower production costs.
• Improved Quality: Consistent placement and reduced human error contribute to improved product quality.
• Suitable for High Volume Production: Jigs and former systems are particularly beneficial for high-volume production runs like this one (500 per week).

Disadvantages of using a jig and former system:

• High Initial Investment: Designing and manufacturing jigs and former systems can be expensive, requiring specialized knowledge and tooling.
• Limited Flexibility: Jigs and former systems are typically designed for a specific product and are not easily adaptable to changes in design.
• Requires Skilled Operators: Operating and maintaining the systems require skilled personnel.
• Potential for Material Waste: Careful design is needed to minimize material waste during the manufacturing process.

Materials for Jig and Former Construction:

• Mild Steel: Strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Suitable for most jigs and former applications.
• Aluminium: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Suitable for applications where weight is a concern.
• Acrylic/Polycarbonate: Good for prototyping and low-volume production due to ease of machining.