With the advancement of vehicle elec- trification and the dissemination of the 5G communication system, there is a growing demand for processed copper products, such as automotive terminals and heat dissipation electronic parts.
To contribute to the development of technologies for the next generation, Mitsubishi Materials is taking efforts to strengthen the system for producing copper billets and cakes, which are raw materials of the above products.
The Sakai Plant has been enhancing its casting facilities with the goal of increasing production volume from its current state. However, simply enhancing facilities is not enough to achieve this goal. It is necessary to analyze and improve four elements: plant employees, machines, materials, and methods. Collaboration with other plants and divisions is also essential. This is because the production system can be strengthened by aligning production with the sales department and the Sambo Plant, which handles secondary processing, and by aiming to optimize operations and inventories.
Therefore, looking ahead to facility enhancement, the Sakai Plant has been working on increasing the operating rate of existing lines for a few years, while having close discussions with the Sambo Plant and other relevant organizations to share each other’s operational procedures and enhancing collaboration. This has improved the operating rate of existing lines and established a system that maximizes the abilities of each site. Considering the utilization of DX to build a more efficient production system, the plant will further expand its production volume.
By steadily implementing initiatives to enhance its production system, the Sakai Plant will contribute to the realization of a prosperous society through the advancement of next-generation technologies.