GKN gears up for productivity

GKN Walterscheid, based in Sohland, Germany (part of GKN Off Highway Systems), is improving productivity and efficiency since going live this summer with a Fourth Shift ERP system backed by Preactor finite scheduling. The site manufactures gearbox systems for the tractors and agricultural machinery markets, and is now supporting GKN’s launch of a new automatic gearbox. Fourth Shift replaced two non-integrated systems for inventory control and accounting. “For the first time we will be able to operate entirely on our own and fully integrate a number of important functions within the plant,” says Wil Logsdail, GKN’s IT manager. “This will improve productivity and efficiency by centralising data assets in one database. Throughout the company, Fourth Shift will improve data flow and synchronisation.” Logsdail cites Fourth Shift connectivity as a useful feature. That has also enabled implementation of a Preactor finite capacity scheduling system. He says that software will provide GKN with the flexibility to change and optimise production plans at short notice, re-route orders to available machines and make best use of CNC machine tool resources. Fourth Shift is the preferred manufacturing management IT standard for the Off Highway Systems group, having been installed in five other GKN OHS factories around the world.