In Part 2 of this series, we discussed order placement, project kickoff, and the engineering phase of a true turnkey oven project. In this post, we will consider the expectations customers should have for the manufacturing phase of their custom oven projects.
The process of manufacturing a turnkey oven is quite different from that of a standard oven. With standard ovens, the supplier will typically have oven panels, circulation fans, heaters, burners, and other components in stock. They are able to do this because the operating parameters and the size of the ovens are limited and well-defined. A true turnkey oven manufacture, on the other hand, tailors each oven to a unique application.
Mechanical Manufacturing of a Custom Industrial Oven
So, what should you expect during the mechanical manufacturing phase of a custom industrial oven project? While each supplier will undoubtedly have a unique approach, the basics are as follows:
The day final drawings are released to the manufacturing group, structural steel for the framework and metal for interior panels is ordered.
The day final drawings are released to the manufacturing group, the mechanical parts list is submitted to purchasing. The major mechanical components are ordered immediately in order to avoid, or reveal, any issues with the project timeline. Other components are purchased and scheduled for delivery according to the production schedule and the project timeline.
The structural steel frame and interior panels are manufactured simultaneously so that the interior panels can be installed in the frame once it is complete.
Insulation is added to the frame to separate the oven interior from the oven exterior.
The airflow distribution (plenum) system is assembled and installed in the interior of the oven.
Exterior sheeting is added.
Exterior trim is installed on all exterior seams.
The oven is prepped for painting.
The oven is painted.
The circulation fan(s), exhaust fan(s), heater(s)/burner(s), door(s) and any other required items are assembled and installed.
Electrical System Manufacturing of a Custom Industrial Oven
Final electrical drawings should be released to the manufacturing group at the same time as final mechanical drawings. This allows the manufacturing group to understand the engineering group’s vision from the start. This minimizes rework due to lack of information during the manufacturing phase of the project.
The electrical manufacturing phase of a custom industrial oven should proceed as follows:
The day final drawings are released to the manufacturing group, the electrical parts list is submitted to purchasing. The major electrical components are ordered immediately to avoid, or reveal, any issues with the project timeline. Other components are purchased and scheduled for delivery according to the production schedule and the project timeline.
As components are delivered, they are received and inventoried in the electrical area of the manufacturing facility.
When all components are received, they are placed and secured to the electrical enclosure back panel per the electrical schematic.
Once all components are secured to the back panel, the wiring of the components is completed.
When all components are wired, the back panel is installed in the electrical enclosure and the electrical enclosure is installed on the oven.
Conduit is routed to all components on the oven and wiring is pulled and terminated to each component.
All systems are proven operational and wire labels are verified.
Other Considerations for Custom Industrial Oven Manufacturing
Obviously, there are many additional steps that take place during the manufacturing phase of a true turnkey industrial oven project. However, this covers the overall process and is what should be expected from any reputable supplier. Of course, there will be quality checks and audits made throughout the manufacturing phase of the project.
As we noted in Part 2 of this series, transparency is crucial to both the supplier and the customer during this partnership. At a minimum, you should expect a bi-weekly progress report from the oven supplier throughout the manufacturing phase of the project. These updates should communicate if the project is on schedule or if there are any foreseeable delays in manufacturing or component delivery that will impact the timeline.
Our next and final post in this series, Part 4, will address customer runoff, shipping preparation, shipping, installation services, owners’ manuals, after-sales services, and maintenance programs. If you have any questions regarding the turnkey industrial oven manufacturing process, please do not hesitate to contact us
