Digitally generated 3D models and virtual patterns are created to simulate the casting process. Data from these simulations provide assurance of a porosity-free casting and conformance with customer specifications. However, the information collected during this initial phase of production is just numbers without the engineers and specialists who review it and use their expertise to determine the final design needed to produce a sound casting.
Once we’ve modeled the part and projected its performance, we still must produce it.
Kirsh uses the Odyssey ERP system by B&L to capture production data from across the foundry. The system gathers hundreds of data points in real-time to help drive continuous improvement in areas like production planning, scrap reduction, predictive maintenance and customer communication. Because we capture so much data, we have established guardrails and guidelines for how it is used.
Every employee — from line operators to ownership — have input in decision making. A report might show one line has more downtime than usual, but an operator will know that a new employee is still learning the setup. Data gives teams a shared starting point to make problem solving more objective. Human collaboration adds the judgment, creativity, and accountability needed to turn information into improvement.
Data for data’s sake doesn’t drive excellence. It only becomes valuable when people
ask the right questions, understand the context, and act on what the numbers are trying to show.
That is the Kirsh approach.
